Everyone needs a break once in a while, and so I bring you some fun, book-related diversions! Something that’s caught my attention are the amazing online games being created for new books. The flashiest one that I’ve seen is the Rings of Orbis game, which is based on the Softwire series by P.J Haarsma. I have to admit that I had my doubts about the sci fi series, even though its been getting a lot of buzz, but after reading the first book, I’m interested to see what will happen to main character Johnny Turnbull. The online game is an RPG where players take on a character based on one of the many alien races that live on the Rings of Orbis. Complete tasks, earn stuff, and answer questions from the book series to move on in the game. Very cool. There is also a similar game that PJ Haarsma created for friend and fellow author Frank Beddor, based on the Wednesday Wars series. Card Soldier Wars allows you to create an army of card soldiers and then use those soldiers to complete missions and get lots of stuff. Also very cool, especially if you’re into strategy games!
You can also jump into the world of Alagaesia with the Vroengard Academy game, based on Christopher Paolini’s bestselling Inheritance series (Eragon, Eldest, and Brisingr). This one is a little different–new players join existing teams and try to earn points for their team by completing mental, magical, and physical trials. There are also individual side quests that you can try on your own. If you’re a fan of the Inheritance series, check this one out.
Looking for some other cool online games based on your favourite books? Well, there are some Harry Potter games online at the Scholastic site and Harper Collins has created some cool games for fantastic new author Sarah Prineas’ bestselling fantasy The Magic Thief. Also getting a lot of attention is the combo online game/real life game based on the 39 Clues series. The first book, The Maze of Bones, by Rick Riordan will get you started with clues that can be used in the online game. The game continues with book 2, One False Note, by Gordon Korman, which is set to come out December 2nd.
So, good luck with your gaming and remember to keep reading, too–you never know where it might lead!
