US Department of State launches educational game about 'American English' language and culture

The U.S. Department of State has partnered with The SuperGroup marketing group to launch Trace Effects, an educational video game aimed at teenagers to promote learning of the English language and American culture.

In Trace Effects, players control Trace, a college student from the year 2045 who has traveled back in time to our present. Trace must help six young adults "accomplish great things" in order to change his future for the better. The game takes players across the United States to major cities like Washington, D.C. and New York City, immersing themselves in culturally relevant in-game situations and learning English language in that context. The game also explores themes of female empowerment, entrepreneurship, community activism and environment conservation.

According to a statement from The SuperGroup, Trace Effects, with offline and online components, was developed in response to the White House's call for more games with positive effects on education, society and health.

"Promoting the learning and teaching of 'American English' around the world is an integral part of the Department of State's efforts to foster mutual understanding between the people of the United States and the people of other countries," reads the statement.

Trace Effects is free-to-play online or available in disc format for educational professionals. More information is available at the Trace Effects website.