Smart Games

New Media can definitely change the world whether you realize or not. My take on 'smart games' is that they can be overwhelming for the average person and it is intimidating compared to the aggressive environmentalists. I found a website that is sponsored by Chevron with a game called "Energyville". (http://willyoujoinus.com/energyville/?gclid=CPXHpr_2qqQCFSM3gwodYnUu4A) . You name your city and choose how to power it with the provided icons such as nuclear gas, hydropower, biomass, etc. It tracks your economic impact, environmental impact, and security impact of your city. You have fully power the city while keeping the total impacts low. My first thought at attempting this game was that my city would be a bust, but with all of the information provided I actually did pretty well. This was one of the only cites that I could honestly say made the most sense. I tried the game even though it wasn't by choice, but I gained a lot of useful knowledge out of it. My only concern is who really takes the time to play these games? Environmental buffs who are playing against each other for the highest score? Is it reaching out to anyone who doesn't know the first thing about energy conservation? Sadly I have to admit, I'd probably be too intimidated to play this game if it weren't an assignment. Hopefully I'm the only pessimist who feels this way! Either way, the proof is in the pudding- I played, I learned, and now I'm telling others about it.