The Bookseller.com

2nd December 2008

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Puffin launches online Bond game

11.08.08 Caroline Horn

Puffin Books has launched a new Young Bond alternate reality game, The Shadow War (www.youngbond.com), and claimed it as the first alternate reality game made specifically for children around books. 

The launch precedes publication of By Royal Command, the fifth book in the Young Bond series by Charlie Higson, on 3rd September.

The game will begin on the 23rd August, when Charlie Higson will set the first mission during his appearance at the Edinburgh International Book Festival. The Shadow War game was written by Charlie Higson and was developed by Six to Start, a specialist creators of alternate reality games. It combines reading, story-telling and online gaming and is designed for children aged 9 plus and is played free of charge. Set within the Young Bond world, the game will allow fans to explore familiar locations and see memorable characters from the series – including James Bond himself.

Charlie Higson said: "I'm really excited about this new Young Bond game, which offers a parallel experience to reading the books. As it is a combination of game playing and poking about on the internet, it’s right up my street. My only regret is that I won’t be able to play it myself as I have been so closely involved in the design of it!"
 
Fans can sign up to play the game from today, Monday 11th August. The game culminates on 8th October with a live event, hosted on the game site and featuring Charlie Higson, in which players will be able to ask questions and influence the end of the game.

Caroline Horn Penguin children's Puffin Young Bond Charlie Higson