Talkie, Harrison Ford Reveal Ecotopia For Facebook

Social gaming firm Talkie is developing a free-to-play Facebook game that encourages environmental consciousness, and it's got the backing of actor Harrison Ford. Described as a "story-driven, mission-based" game, Ecotopia uses the city-building format and intends to encourage and empower users to act on behalf of the global environment in the real world. Such deeds can be redeemed for rewards in the game world, Talkie says. The game is being developed alongside nonprofit Conservation International, a company focused on forming strategic partnerships for environmental good. Harrison Ford is on the CI's board of directors as vice chairman, and said he was "excited" about the collaboration. "This game represents a refreshing new way to engage millions of people in addressing critical environmental issues and finding solutions that work for the well-being of humanity," Ford said. "For the first time, we can fundamentally change the rules on how philanthropic organizations can connect to the 300 million people that play casual games on Facebook each day," added Talkie chairman Larry Bond. "I can’t wait for more people to learn how fun and easy protecting the environment can be through the broad reach and engaging play of Ecotopia on Facebook."