Harrison Ford to make a social network game!!



No, that is not a typo--Indiana Jones is making a Facebook game with Los-Angeles-based developer Talkie and Conservation International to promote the health of the environment. It's called Ecotopia, and it is a city-building game scheduled to launch this spring, according to the Hollywood Reporter. As vice chairman of Conservation International, Harrison Ford said, "I'm excited to be involved with Ecotopia because I see it as a great way to engage millions of people in our fight to protect our planet by taking action online and in our daily lives."

This game will pit players with the task of taking their initially disgusting city and turn it around through in-game missions and their friends' help. Like in most social games, you will be able to send your friends gifts and help their cities out. Environmental villains--which of course you will need to defeat--will be introduced to Ecotopia as the storyline progresses.

But here's the hook you've been waiting for: Players will be rewarded with in-game rewards for broadcasting their real-world green efforts through the game. While the rewards won't be huge, according to Talkie CEO Chris Swain, posting them along with a picture and having friends verify the contribution will result in huge paybacks. Video will be integrated as well through Ecotopia TV, which will allow players to view and create their own videos relevant to Conservation International's efforts.

Ford believes that his first Facebook game will spur involvement in and awareness of the movement toward a healthier planet. While we doubt Mr. Solo is behind the computer writing code, he is serving as a consultant on the game, pointing at how key environmental issues could be introduced into Ecotopia, Talkie chairman Larry Bond said to Hollywood Reporter. Ultimately, the game will serve as another way for Fords' organization to spread its message. As for the game's enjoyability, we remain cautiously optimistic. Hey, if the guy can survive a 747 crash and look good in a man purse, Ford can do anything.