A new ‘choose your own adventure’ video game set in Antarctica is helping students engage and learn more about climate science.
The online game was created by Nuttaporn (Merry) Khunwongwiwat as part of her specialisation in the Professional stream within the Master of Marine and Antarctic Science at the University of Tasmania’s Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies (IMAS).
“I wanted to create a project that breaks down complex science and engage young people. Everyone can make a difference in combating global warming and protecting our planet, and that was one of my main goals,” Merry said.
“I created AntarctiX: Be the hero of the ice as an educational tool for younger students to be aware of and learn about the changing environment in Antarctica.”
The name AntarctiX combines Antarctica and Explore, and it was originally planned as a board game before being developed as an online game for young students.
In the game, players assume the role of a scientists aboard the Australian Antarctic Division’s icebreaker RSV Nuyina. Players can choose what scientific research to pursue during their journey to Antarctica and how they interact with the environment there.
“If you were a scientist and had the chance to travel on the icebreaker to Antarctica, what would you do while you’re there? The game lets you make those decisions,” said Merry. “With 64 different outcomes, the choices you make shape your experience.”
Merry’s choice of Antarctica as the setting for her game was deliberate.
“I understand the urgency of addressing global warming, but it’s a topic that often feels distant because it's so geographically far away. I wanted to create a sense of urgency and importance, especially since Antarctica is a region that impacts everyone,” she said.
Merry, who originally studied veterinary medicine in her home country of Thailand, was excited her project would be used as an educational tool in marine science.
"One of my favourite parts of doing a project for my Master’s was showcasing my skills. It also gave me opportunities to meet various stakeholders where I could showcase my project to industry and government including the Australian Antarctic Division,” she said.
Dr Andreas Seger, coordinator of the Contemporary Skills in Marine and Antarctic Studies unit, said the aim of the IMAS Professional Master stream is to develop job-ready science communicators, industry and government professionals of the future.
“As part of this course, students design, manage and deliver their own projects to achieve outputs with real-world impact. AntarctiX is a stellar example of the types of projects that can be delivered as part of the Professional Masters.”
Let's play! AntarctiX: Be the hero of the ice
Cover image: The coast of Antarctica
Credit: Katharina Hochmuth ACEAS