Beta Blasters! Tackles Education with Retro Shoot 'Em Up Gameplay

Education and gaming are going hand-in-hand more often. I mean, in the '90s and '00s, there have been a decent variety of video games that educate students (see JumpStart), but nowadays, schools are beginning to integrate gaming into their classrooms as part of the curriculum. But this is not what this article is about. Instead, we're going to be talking about a specific, scientific title dubbed Beta Blasters!

Beta Blasters!, developed by Lycored, teaches children (and adults, if they need a refresher) about the importance of the carotenoids, though there is a heavy focus on beta-carotene. This is a kid-friendly side-scrolling Shoot 'em Up that teaches you the basics of carotenoids over the course of the game. Kids will definitely learn (if they choose to read, anyway) facts, such as how broccoli is rich in beta-carotene.

Basically, the plot is as follows:

You're the beta-carotene, who is battling Free Radicals, Hemogoblins, and the Emperor Oxide to defend the human body, as the Emperor is attempting to harm the DNA within the nucleus. You will have a beta carotene-powered vitamin A blaster, which can be powered up through veggies, whereas your speed is enhanced through fruits. Not only that, but there are these "Lycocoins" that you can obtain. If you collect five, one of your carotenoid buddies--chosen between lutein, astaxanthin, phytofluene, lycopene, and alpha-carotene--will automatically join the fray.

This game is great for educational purposes, though can be considered a little tough for those inexperienced with shoot 'em ups. Either way, the game is completely free, located on the official site.

For science!