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With the advent of web-based digital maps such as those provided by Google and Mapquest comes exciting add-ons. Google in particular has shined in this arena, allowing users to see street-level photos of an area, track problem areas on their commute, and drag-and-drop routes to find the best way to get from point A to point B. Now that Google Maps has Flash capabilities, innovative gamers are taking advantage of the backdrop to create fun and informative online games.

One game is a two-dimensional driving simulator which lets gamers drive a car, truck, bus, or semi around city streets. The game was developed by Geoquake, and was written by Japanese developer Katsuomi Kobayashi. His idea for the simulator was pure fantasy: “With the power of Google Maps, you can drive around the world without having to worry about spending money on expensive gas.” Players can choose from different settings within Google Maps’ database, including Tokyo, Las Vegas, Manhattan, London, and the Autobahn. The simplicity of the interface (it uses keyboard commands and gives a flat, aerial view of the streets) doesn’t detract from its enjoyable game play.

Another game which takes advantage of Google’s innovations in online mapping is a miniature flight simulator. The game, which runs inside the new Google Earth browser plug-in, was created by a UK developer. Players start the game by “buzzing” Google’s headquarters, and they can change location by typing in any address. It also takes advantage of Google Earth’s 3D modeling of buildings, allowing players to circumnavigate obstacles.

A recent CNET article highlights the most exciting thing about these two, simple games: “I’m among those who are interested to watch Google Earth abilities gradually pop up in Google Maps and in the browser. It’s easily conceivable to me that we’ll soon be seeing all manner of games that run on the 3D models of the real world that Google and Microsoft are building.” The ability to run within a browser is becoming a necessity for any new application, and this is beginning to include games. Though these two examples are hardly the cutting edge of graphics or speed, they demonstrate not only the capabilities of browsers but also the applications of 3D mapping. As Google slowly assembles maps and models of the entire planet, expect to see more innovative games like these.

Wednesday, June 11th, 2008 You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.

By Haley January Eckels