A new hero awakens

Florida-based mobile games publisher Your World Games is almost ready to launch its debut title, The Shroud, which is an RPG incorporating unique GPS gameplay that the company hopes will change the way people think about mobile gaming.

Thrust into the role of an unlikely hero, players will be tasked with protecting a rural farming community from an onslaught of vicious attacks from mysterious and malevolent forces. Of course, every hero needs a suitable day job as a cover, and The Shroud ensures there's always something to be accomplished - from planting crops and tending fields, to exploring the mines and feeding the villagers with freshly caught fish.

An engrossing RPG that stems from a passion for hardcore gaming and bucks the trend for quick-fire mobile gaming, The Shroud promises long term gameplay with a host of puzzles, side-quests, missions, mini-games and challenges.

Your World Games has established a community friendly challenge system, known as the International Farming League, through which players can accept a variety of specific challenges to gain points, specialist equipment and valuable prizes that are normally associated with the complex, involving RPG games found on traditional videogame platforms. A leader board and community forum will be available online, where players can buy and trade items, meet other players and accept further unique challenges and competitions.

"The mobile platform should not limit a game design. Our goal is to set a new standard for depth in gameplay in the space," commented Robert Sprogis, VP of Your World Games. "We want to change the way people think about mobile games. They don't have to be poor graphics and quick gameplay sessions. Instead we want to offer compelling stories, large worlds to explore, and take advantage of the mobility of the platform."

One of the more unique aspects of the game is the inclusion of optional GPS challenges (dependent on handset compatibility), which will run in conjunction with the IFL league. Players can connect the real with the virtual world, entering designated 'hotspots' located around national landmarks and at random designated locations, to take on special challenges that offer higher points and more exclusive in-game prizes.

The Shroud, which has already gained significant positive attention in the mobile gaming media, is scheduled to debut in North American this spring, quickly followed by a European and UK launch.

More information on the game can be found by visiting the newly launched Shroud website, and the further insight into the company's ambitious strategy for introducing GPS gameplay to the mobile market can be found in our interview with Robert Sprogis.