Minecraft is highlighting the threats facing wild animals through a new game and set of maps. The Zoological Society of London (ZSL) worked with the Royal Foundation and United for Wildlife partners on the development, launched today, with the aim of showing young people the sad reality that some of our wild animals could disappear forever.
The maps are part of the "We are the Rangers" campaign project, and feature animals including pangolin, elephant, rhino and lion, the real victims of illegal trade, plus the rangers trying to save them.
The aim of the game is to have fun and learn about conservation. Set in the African savannah, players take on the role of rangers, to save those precious animals that may soon disappear. One challenge involves players recovering stolen ivory and rhino horns – which is why all our elephants and rhino are disappearing in real life.
There are three components to We are the Rangers:
1. “The Golden Pangolin” game – where players rescue animals including pangolins from danger.
2. “The Quest” map – which features five challenges, such as bringing back wildlife images.
3. “The Creator” map – a creative space for players to create their maps and share on social.
The maps and game were developed with members of the public, who responded to a call for help with a Minecraft build to highlight how rangers protect animals facing extinction.
Stampy and Wonderquest join UfW
To celebrate the launch, high profile YouTubers Stampy Longhead and Wonderquest will play through the maps and game. Stampy is high-profile YouTuber with 6.5million subscribers.
