SecretBuilders is a new virtual world with an emphasis on creativity and historical adventure for children 6 to 14 years old. Children will be able  live and play among fictional and historical characters and learn concepts from the arts and humanities.

The game is centered around quests that expose kids to classic books such as “Treasure Island” and “Alice in Wonderland”. Other activities include getting published in the online magazine, hovering around famous art work in Frank ‘n’ Stein’s Gallery, ordering slimy treats at the Weird Brew Café (run by the Weird Sisters characters from “Macbeth”), chatting with Sherlock Holmes, and visiting Copernicus’ home to take a challenge quiz.

The developer (Renaissance 2.0 Media Inc) hopes that the game will not only be played by kids alone, but also be used by teachers to supplement the teaching of various topics, including literature, arts, sciences and humanities. Whyville anyone?

SecretBuilders is currently free to play, however a (possible future) paid membership option will give members access to additional features. The paid membership will be a monthly or annual payment.

The game works on the proven one-fits-all virtual world formular: Create a Character - Explore - Play Games/Activities - Make virtual Money - Customize your Home/Avatar - Back to Explore.

Secret Builders strives to be different by offering 3  unique features:

Children will be the creators and not just consumers. They will help build this world with their ideas, critiques and contributions. We will directly solicit their input on building out lands, contests, activities, games and features, and in many cases, they will see an immediate implementation of their ideas and suggestions. This world, which is for them, will be created by them.

Children will be exposed to concepts in science, math and the humanities through games, quests, contests and “conversations” with the historical figures that populate this online world. They will be introduced in fun, subtle ways such that they won’t even know they’ve learned a piece of history, a famous line from literature or something about philosophy. SecretBuilders is not meant to be an educational site but through immersion in activities, quests and games their school education will be enriched.

Children will exercise the creative spirit present in each child through many art- and writing-based activities, all of which will be maintained in an online library to be visited again and again. They will be able to participate in a variety of writing contests, maintain blogs and diaries, create artwork, produce photo/video items as well as discuss and interact on works published by someone else. This ability to publish their own works as well as see and comment on that of others creates a vibrant, dynamic community that will enhance other creative classroom activities.

Curious? Play SecretBuilders here: www.secretbuilders.com

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