The Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs announces the launch of ITALY. Land of Wonders, a video game that is aimed at bringing the cultural heritage and wonders of Italy to a worldwide audience in general, and to young people in particular. Graphically appealing and targeted to both children and adults, ITALY. Land of Wonders portrays the beauty and tradition of this country through an interactive and fun experience.
Elio is the old lighthouse keeper who, every morning, with the help of the 20 sparks he retrieved the night before from the 20 regions of Italy, lights up the sun that will shine bright over the country. The game starts at sunset, Elio – a reference to Helios, the sun god of ancient Greek mythology – is looking for an assistant who can help him complete his arduous task. He has summoned a mysterious character outside the lighthouse: the player, who is drawn into a night adventure around Italy to retrieve 20 sparks, light up the lighthouse and ensure the sun shines again.
During their journey, the players will meet five Guardians, who will guide them to discover Nature, Cuisine, Art, Performance and Design, the five main sectors of the Italian cultural heritage. At the end of the journey, a huge surprise awaits the players: they will take Elio’s place, symbolically becoming the new Lighthouse Keepers, with a mission to protect the country’s treasures. First, however, they will need to pass no less than 100 puzzle game levels, each one featuring a 3D reconstruction of an iconic Italian landmark, in a truly engaging journey to discover, step by step, the coast and mountains, cities and castles, traditions and myths of the country. Created for those already acquainted with Italy, as well as those who are not and want to learn more – while improving their grasp of the language –, ITALY. Land of Wonders can also serve as a travel guide, thanks to a collection of 600 articles filled with stories, news and fun facts.
Last but not least, the music! Original scores inspired by the great Italian classics, from opera to baroque to famous movie soundtracks, set the mood to a game that is also an engaging and informative learning tool for schools that teach Italian as a foreign language.
The game is available in 11 languages and free to download on both iOS and Android; smartphone and tablet.