Creating a Low-Cost Public Augmented Reality RPG as a Community Attraction

Reality gaming, also known as augmented reality (AR) gaming, has emerged as an innovative and immersive form of entertainment that blurs the boundaries between the digital and physical worlds. By integrating virtual elements into real-life environments, reality gaming offers a unique and interactive experience for players. Beyond its entertainment value, reality gaming holds significant benefits for the community, creating social connections, promoting physical activity, and enhancing community engagement. In this article, we will explore these benefits more with you, and at the end, I'll act humbly as you thank me for the idea.

No, no, it's all good, no need to thank me, I'm sure you'd come up with the idea eventually. Much later than I did of course, but...

See? I've been practicing. Not bad, huh?

What's an ARRPG? and Why Am I Agitated I Had To Ask That?

AR stands for Augmented Reality and RPG stands for, Role Playing Game. Together they are combined to form a type of Reality Gaming, that offers interactive experiences that merge digital content with real-world settings through AR technology. Unlike traditional video games, reality gaming requires players to venture outside and explore their physical surroundings while interacting with virtual objects, characters, or challenges. This innovative form of gaming is made possible through smartphones, tablets, AR glasses, or dedicated AR devices.

Feel Good About Kicking The Kids Out of the House

One of the most notable benefits of reality gaming is its promotion of physical activity. Unlike conventional video games that may encourage sedentary behavior, reality gaming requires players to move and explore the real world actively. Whether it's searching for virtual creatures in augmented reality games like Pokémon GO or participating in interactive challenges, players engage in physical movements that contribute to their overall health and fitness.

Getting to Know Your Neighbors and Other People Who Aren't

Reality gaming is a powerful tool for fostering social interaction within the community. Players often gather in local parks, public spaces, or dedicated gaming events to play together and share their experiences. This creates opportunities for strangers to connect and form friendships over a shared interest, breaking down barriers and strengthening community bonds.

Why You'll Be a Community Celeb

Reality gaming can provide a boost to local businesses and venues. Many reality games incorporate real-world locations as essential elements of the gameplay. As players visit these locations to complete challenges or access in-game resources, they may discover and frequent local businesses, benefiting the local economy and raising awareness of community landmarks.

Tip O' the Day To Ya'

Okay, this isn't part of the whole AR RPG topic. I was told that I should make sure to remind readers that Tipping an author you like or feel sorry for, is more than okay and that I, being an author you might like or feel sorry for fit part of this tipping equation. Just putting it out there. Need an author to tip? Well, I'll be your huckleberry.

Anyway, where are we? Ah, that's right, AR RPGs, public, good. Moving on.

A Better Reason To Tell The Officer When He Askes Why You're Poking Around Places, Again

Reality gaming encourages players to explore their community like never before. By integrating virtual elements into real-world environments, players are incentivized to visit new places, discover hidden gems, and learn more about their surroundings. This exploration can lead to a deeper appreciation of the community's cultural, historical, and natural attractions.

Trick the local Kids into Educational Initiatives, Learning Safety, and Situational Awareness

Reality gaming can be harnessed for educational purposes, promoting learning and discovery within the community. Educational reality games can focus on history, science, art, or other subjects, providing an engaging and interactive approach to education. Schools and community organizations can incorporate these games as part of educational programs or field trips, enriching students' learning experiences.

Some reality gaming experiences incorporate safety and awareness elements to educate players about real-world challenges. For instance, games may highlight pedestrian safety, environmental conservation, or emergency preparedness. By incorporating these elements into gameplay, reality gaming can contribute to a safer and more informed community.

Fostering a Sense of Adventure and Supporting the Fight Against Unhealthy Amounts of Isolation

Reality gaming creates a sense of adventure and excitement for players of all ages. It challenges them to step outside their comfort zones and embark on virtual quests, making everyday life more thrilling and engaging. This sense of adventure encourages players to approach their surroundings with curiosity and enthusiasm.

For individuals facing physical or social barriers, reality gaming can provide an opportunity to overcome isolation and connect with others. Inclusive reality games that accommodate various abilities and interests can create a sense of belonging and empowerment, helping individuals feel more integrated into the community.

Building a Virtual Community Overlay and Pretend It's All Yours!

Wait, yes to the Overlay, no to pretending it's all yours. It would kind of defeat the purpose. Anyway here's where people start to think creating a public AR RPG isn't possible for community members or volunteers.

Reality gaming adds a virtual layer to the physical community, creating a unique sense of place and identity. This virtual community overlay enhances the sense of belonging and can foster a shared community experience. Players see their surroundings through a different lens, adding depth and meaning to their interactions with the community.

So how much does this cost to do, Right? In most cases, probably nothing. Numerous free apps can be used for free to create a virtual overlay. The overlay is used for many parts of the AR RPG. Among other information and virtual items, the overlay can include clues, plot information, Character information, and narrative. Many of these free apps have a social component built into them that can be used for free also to promote and increase socialization and teamwork for players. It will take at most an hour or two to learn any of these apps and how to use them as part of this awesome Community Attraction.

Conclusion

Reality gaming offers an extraordinary and immersive experience that goes beyond traditional gaming. With its focus on physical activity, social interaction, community exploration, and educational opportunities, reality gaming has the potential to positively impact the community in multifaceted ways. By promoting physical fitness, fostering social connections, and encouraging community exploration, it becomes a catalyst for positive community engagement. As this form of gaming continues to evolve, communities and community members should explore the opportunities it presents to enhance the well-being and unity of the members and residents.

Make sure you subscribe to, The Next Plan, to discover more about AR RPGs for health, socialization, community, and Fun as we explore making one together, and to learn about an even easier RPG/murder mystery community game using Geo Caching as its base component. What's Geo Caching? You'll have to subscribe to find out.