META!BLAST

A cell is a complex unit, made up of many types of structures, each of which functions differently and interacts with the others in particular ways. However, traditional methods of teaching cell biology, via textbooks and illustrated diagrams, do not always adequately show how the cell functions or how its parts interact in real time and space.

Meta!Blast is designed to make learning fun, and to give a different perspective on classroom content.In a 3D video game, players are immersed into a virtual environment that requires them to recognize, not only where the virtual space they are located, but also how the environment reacts to their actions. By presenting the cell as an interactive environment that responds to the players actions in real-time, students will not only take more active interest in what they are being taught, but also will gain a better sense of how the cell actually operates by being able to see it function as it would in real life.

Metablast is intended to provide a gameplay experience on par with those of professionally developed commercial video games. Among the developers working on Metablast are artists, programmers, sound programmers, and writers dedicated to accomplishing high quality game design. Among their goals are creating aesthetically pleasing environments that will catch students’ attention and motivate them to explore; a storyline that is practical, believable, and will hold the attention and interest of high school and undergraduate students; and gameplay mechanics that are not only educational, but also simply fun to participate in.

In addition, by using a video game as a vehicle to teach, students who typically do not care for science may be taught basic biological concepts simply through play. Metablast will be able to reach students who do not learn well from text or diagrams, who learn best from interactive, first-hand experience.