It’s always fun to interact with games of some sort, whether you’re playing them digitally on a console or PC, or using real objects to get into a good match with your opponent. Very rarely, though, do you see ones made merely for the sake of education, although they can still be entertaining.
That’s certainly the case with the Mecha Monsters, a new toy being produced by UK-based startup tech company Reach Robotics. Led by Silas Adekunle, this robot gaming system enables players to battle against one another, using voice commands given through a connected smartphone app.
As revealed by Robotics Today, the machines are actually able to learn and grow as they fight, working their way through a pre-programmed web-based universe. As players progress with them, they can earn new customizations, being able to add items like shields and additional skills that become unlocked over time.
Where the education part comes into play is with dual-level developers’ software, which not only provides endless opportunities for players, but also devoted programmers who want to adapt the behavior of their robots even further. Using STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education, they provide an easy way to learn more about robotics in general, as well as coding and mechanics for up-and-coming inventors and experienced builders alike, all through the convenience of the app.
“Although they are very fun to play, they are also an easy and accessible gateway into learning about robotics,” said Adekunle. “When you’re done playing with our robots, you can use our developer software to start creating custom motions. It’s a simple way to try out coding and see it play out in real life.”
The product recently won People’s Choice runner-up at the Pitch@Palace showcase, and the team is hard at work preparing a prototype for a mass-market production sometime this year.
“Before we can make a lasting impression on people through exposure to STEM and robotics, we first need to capture their imaginations,” said Adekunle. “We’ve created a product that combines entertainment and education, but we know that the journey to bring it to life is difficult.”
The Mecha Monsters can be seen in action in the video below.
https://youtube.com/watch?v=D7uHQMB6WE0
