For The Kids: ‘The Time Tribe’ Is Running Out Of Time On Kickstarter

There are many, many games that can be classified as attempts to teach children on a certain subject or theme – failed attempts we might add. Dr Karen Bellinger Wehner is attempting to mold The Time Tribe into a successful attempt at this educational pursuit in games. The most important thing about the game is that Karen knows what she’s doing for once, proven by the following sentence which pretty much smacks the nail on the head regarding previous futile attempts to teach kids a thing or two through computer games:

“Research shows that real learning is achieved not when kids are given facts to memorize and be tested on, but when they’re excited about the subject matter, when they engage with it on their own terms, when they participate and care and are given the power to make choices about it that matter.”

Forgive the mainstream example, dear indie game lovers, but think back to playing Assassin’s Creed just for an example – you probably learned a lot about the history and setting of the place the game takes place in, no? Well anyway, The Time Tribe aims to capture that kind of immersion with children through a causal adventure game and a tied-in social space too. Going even further, players will be able to get their hands on relics they collect in the game as keyrings of them will be sent to out, for example. The idea is that the player gets involved with the characters in their time travelling journey, interacting with the environment and people, both to learn about history and culture as well as engaging in critical thinking.

It’s worth noting that Karen has spent 15 years as a professional archaeologist and historian, while also raising her own children; so the game’s content seems to be in safe hands. As you can imagine though, creating the game is costly and as it relies on a thriving community, some funding is needed to sustain development as well as getting the word out about the game. As such, a Kickstarter project is on the go and it’s nearing the very last hours and still needs a significant portion of the asked for amount.

You know the drill by now – if you’re interested in the project and want to help the developers out, or just want to get your hands on the game and some goodies, throw your money in their direction. Check out the teaser trailer for an idea of the game, amusingly shaky British accents included.

More information on The Time Tribe can be found over on the game’s official website.