Global Conflict:Latin America

Global Conflicts: Latin America is a 3D simulation game that sends you to Latin America to explore internal conflicts within key Latin American countries. In the online demo, players take on the role of an american reporter inestigating pollution and birth-defects/illnesses resulting from chemicals being dumped into the local river. Along with pollution and health issues many people have rfecently lost their jobs and are now desperate to find ways to make money to support their families. The closing of a local maquilador, factory, is at the center of the conflict.

The graphics of this game are on par with those of other 3D simulations such as Second Life. The player has less control, movement is restricted within the game but this may be to the players benefit as there is a time limit. For example, in the demo players have an appointment with the factory manager at 6pm and only have a few hours to interview the local villagers to gather sufficient background knowledge before the interview. During this time you are given conversations organized by topic. Your job is to use your time and conversations wisely. Sometimes extra "clues" may pop up during a conversation that may lead you to another interviewee.

The game requires players to be able to read and comprehend at a high school level but does a nice job of explaining key vocabulary and concepts. I enjoyed playing the demo, there was a high level of interest and I was engaged throughout the game. I liked that all of the important information I gathered was automatically noted in a small virtual notebook that was easy to access. Unfortunately, I did not score very high due to lack of information and arguments (which you aquire through interviews). Overall I thought it was a great game and I highly suggest using it high school or even college courses.