A Defender’s Tale began as a Kickstarter project by Darci Manley and Mark Grochowski, called Defender of the Realm, in July 2012. The book is a personalized tale that is squarely aimed at kids and families. At the very beginning of the book, readers are invited to fill out an employment application to be a defender. Once the application is submitted, the adventure begins.
This app is more story based and, while it is an adventure with some “combat,” the narrative comes first. What I like most about A Defender’s Tale is the amazing artwork by Jonatan Iversen-Ejve – it enhances the app and make it feel very much like a picture book (and one with fun animations and a laugh-out-loud soundtrack). Many of the illustrations on the pages can be tapped for further animations. As you progress through the book, the details you provided in the application make their appearances throughout the story. Some show up more seamlessly than others, but it’s a nice touch that will really appeal to kids.
The book includes lessons disguised as story points throughout the book and there are real things to be learned on these virtual pages. Decisions will have to be made and outcomes will change based on the choices that are made. However, they are all lessons based on making the right decisions for being a good person. Chaotic evil will not work here; check your alignment at the door.
Along the way, there are mini-games to play and they are fun. For example, on the island of cats, aka Cattery Isle, an infestation of rats has alarmed the residents. You wouldn’t think this would be an issue for an island of cats, but it is, so, as a defender, you must whack-a-rat to help save the day.
If you make a mistake and choose the wrong path, it’s easy to take a step back or choose an alternative much further back by using the game’s history function. It’s easy to backtrack and this function makes the reader feel less uneasy about making a bad decision. The only downside is the constant warning reminders – it would be nice to be able to turn those off after reading it the first time.
A Defender’s Tale is a fun family adventure app with lessons that reflect good values. It is available in the iTunes store for free download and $2.99 unlock after the sample is complete.
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