Game makes commuting competitive

Rush hour: A new online contest that sets challenges for Tube users launches today
12 April 2012

Your mission, should you choose to accept it, is to travel from Mill Hill East to Barking, changing at Bank...

A new online game that pits Tube commuters against each other in a series of challenging tasks is launched today.

Players of Chromaroma sign up on the game's website, giving the nearest station to their home and work, and their Oyster card and cycle hire details. The system then automatically tracks journeys they make on the Underground.

The game presents players with a series of tasks and missions, such as avoiding rush hour, visiting a new part of the capital, setting speed records, or travelling in a healthier way by cycling or walking more. Completing tasks wins points in the contest to be "best commuter".

Challenges could include visiting stations named after the capital's squares, or going to locations used in popular films, such as Notting Hill.

The game, funded by Channel 4, has been developed by internet firm Mudlark, previously known for creating a Twitter version of Romeo and Juliet with the Royal Shakespeare Company.Mudlark hopes to attract commercial brands to sponsor real prizes.

Chromaroma.com has attracted more than 5,000 players since testing began in November. Mudlark managing director Toby Barnes, said: "We wanted to turn the daily commute into something fun and exciting.

"People have a really competitive edge. Everyone thinks they are the best commuter and knows a great route. This lets them see just how good they are."

The game gets its information from Transport for London's journey logs. When players sign up, they give permission for their data to be accessed. Colourful maps show exactly where players have been in the capital.

Players are also divided into colour-coded teams. When someone taps in or out of a station, they gain points. In the three-month team game, the group that builds up the most hits on the most stations wins the game. Mr Barnes said he hoped to add a feature soon allowing people to set up their own team.

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