Santander International has launched a mobile app game for children in Jersey to keep them counting during the summer break.
The game, which is linked to Santander International’s sponsorship of Durrell’s Go Wild Gorilla Trail, is designed to engage youngsters with the rewilding initiative after they encounter Badongo, Santander International’s gorilla sculpture.
Featuring a rugby-playing gorilla in a Jersey Reds shirt, Go Badongo! uses top-level gaming industry talent to create a fun game that requires players to use their mental arithmetic skills to get to the next level.
Designed by Quadra and its sister company SidePlay, the game is the first of its kind in Jersey.
Andrew Barette, Director, Quadra, said: “The creative team used the same set of high-level design and player engagement skills they use for global clients in the gaming industry – something wehaven’t seen before in the Island with a game that is purely intended for local players.
“Despite its apparent simplicity, the concept brings together many key elements – Durrell’s rewilding initiative, the Jersey Reds, and Santander International’s push for numeracy.”
It took about six weeks from concept to launch to create the free game, which players can access through mobile devices when they unlock the gorilla reward on the sculpture at the Jersey Reds ground.
During the game, players help Badongo outmanoeuvre the opposition – rhinos – then need to add up the sums correctly to score a try.
James Pountney, Managing Director, Santander International, said: “Encouraging the developmentof numeracy skills in young people is very important to Santander International. We are delighted to be able to work with such a talented team in Jersey to create a game that helps engage children with the work Durrell is doing through Go Wild Gorillas, and that can also help make counting more fun.”
Go Wild Gorillas is a free family-fun event running in Jersey throughout the summer to celebrate the 60th anniversary of Durrell. Badongo is one of 40 artist-designed gorilla sculptures located throughout the Island until 14 October.
