But who am I? I think it’s about time I introduced myself to all of you. My name is Rhineheart. Let’s just go with Rhineheart for now. Eventually I will let you in on my secret. I developed a computer game that is able to pull them inside so they are actually taking part in the game. BUT (notice the big but?), they have complete, functional bodies and minds that allow them to find out what it feels like to be one of the “normal kids.” Well, none of us are really normal, but sometimes, we look at everyone around us and think “If only …” Well my game just does that. The game puts the players into situations they are forced to use skills, knowledge, or knowledge they need in the difficult world in which we live. BUT (did you notice another big but?), they also have to give up something in that level of the game, like their sight, hearing, or other ability they already have and use all the time. The game could also take away some part of their health and give them a condition they have never experienced in their short lives.

So, this time, the game takes away NJ’s health and strength, giving him a condition called Sickle Cell Sickness. That means some of his red blood cells are the shape of a quarter moon or a sickle, making it difficult for them to get into the smaller blood vessels and causing the need for a transfusion. This condition is life threatening, but not inside my game. However, it will make it difficult for NJ to do much of anything. The challenging part of this level is that NJ will have to save the lives of at least three people so he can succeed and move on to the next level. So far, I have found it necessary for players to limit themselves to one level per day. It will take them longer than that to process all the information from this level of the game and decide how to use their new skills to help them at home, at school, or just chillin’ with friends.

BTW, please don’t tell NJ about this level. He ought to learn about it from me when he double clicks on the icon for my game next time. The surprise and the mystery are all a vital part of the game and to the process of learning something new. When you double click on my game icon, I will make sure to give you the same surprise and mystery so you can enjoy each and every level.

–Rhineheart