Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus

Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus Coverart

Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus is a video game developed by WaveQuest and published by Raya Systems in 1995. The game was designed for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) and is part of a series of educational video games created by Raya Systems, aimed at children with asthma. The main goal of the game is to teach players about asthma management and the importance of environmental health.

Gameplay

In Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus, players control Bronkie, a dinosaur who suffers from asthma. The game is set in a prehistoric environment that has been polluted by a volcanic eruption, which has spread dust and ash, triggering asthma symptoms in the inhabitants. Players must navigate through various levels, avoiding or dealing with asthma triggers such as dust, pollen, and smoke. The game incorporates elements of platforming and adventure, with players collecting items that can help manage asthma symptoms, such as inhalers and health power-ups.

The gameplay also includes educational segments where players learn about asthma triggers, symptoms, and treatments. These segments are designed to increase the player's knowledge about asthma in an engaging and interactive way.

Development and Impact

Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus was developed as part of Raya Systems' Health Hero series, which aimed to use video games as a medium to educate children about various health issues, including diabetes, smoking, and asthma. The development of the game involved collaboration with healthcare professionals to ensure that the information presented was accurate and beneficial for children with asthma.

The game has been recognized for its innovative approach to health education. By combining entertainment with educational content, Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus sought to engage children in learning about asthma management in a way that was both fun and informative. It has been used in various educational and healthcare settings as a tool to teach children about asthma.

Reception

Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus received mixed reviews upon its release. Critics praised the game for its educational value and the novel approach to teaching children about asthma. However, some reviewers noted that the gameplay mechanics and graphics were somewhat dated, even for its time. Despite these criticisms, the game has been lauded for its positive impact on health education and its role in raising awareness about asthma among children.

Legacy

The legacy of Bronkie the Bronchiasaurus lies in its contribution to the field of educational video games, particularly those focused on health education. It stands as an example of how video games can be used as educational tools, beyond their entertainment value. The game paved the way for future health-related video games and demonstrated the potential of interactive media in health education and promotion.