In between fits of graphics programming today, I had a pretty neat opportunity to beta test a game that some friends of mine are developing for Google’s Android software platform. The game is called Parallel Kingdom, and is based on the idea of using the GPS in the Android phones to play a medieval MMORPG in a virtual world that mirrors the real world.

What does that mean? Well, for example, in one round of beta testing, Jason built a castle on Capitol Square, while Jon set up shop at Camp Randall. I got too close, and got killed :-P In the virtual world, we got to craft weapons, build buildings, and run around attacking eachother, which will ultimately happen out in real life. Check out their first video, for a sweet example!

I’m looking forward to seeing this progress; they’ve got a lot of really great ideas!