Police launch new game to promote good citizenship

West Yorkshire Police have teamed up with communications group Dubit to produce a new web-based game that's designed to encourage positive social behaviour amongst children.

Titled City Zone, the game currently features two areas to explore - the Housing Estate and the City Centre. Players are tasked with a variety of missions that range from stopping thieves, preventing muggings and halting drug abuse to rescuing cats and staging concerts.

"This is an amazing project, the first of its kind for the police service," said the force's Schools Officer, Inspector Janet Balance.

"The young people will learn that they can contribute positively towards their community, avoid stereotyping and the prejudices around this. All of this is done in a very fun way and requires good IT skills and decision making to successfully play the game."

"We were pleased to work with West Yorkshire Police, especially with this project as much of our work resolves around young people and community safety issues," added Dubit's Ian Douthwaite.

"I am particularly pleased with the characterisation and graphics of the game and believe we have produced an exciting and challenging game for young people to enjoy and learn from."

The game has already been trialled by pupils of the Prince Henry Grammar School, where it has proved popular with both students and teachers alike. It's now available to play online via WYcityzones.com.