Sometimes, when traveling in a busy city, waiting to cross the road can take forever and be a total drag. If you're the type to stand at a crosswalk tapping your toe and rolling your eyes, wishing that orange hand would turn into a flashing figure, you'll love what Christchurch, New Zealand has to offer.
Wondering what I'm referring to? Check the photo above and you'll see my friends and I playing Attack of the Cones on Tuam Street.
Attack of the Cones is a giant arcade game meant to keep walkers entertained while stopped along the curb.
You'll love what Christchurch, New Zealand has to offer.
Locals and tourists alike can jump on the platform and grab ahold of the large joystick, moving their character―a cartoon on a bike―down the road, past local landmarks, and around obstacles. Crosswalk companions can step (or stomp) on two large buttons to pop the cyclist up and over "cracks" in the virtual pavement.
According to the Christchurch City Council, other games are also scattered throughout the city―I didn't run into any during my time there, but hopefully, you will―including a "pong game" where walkers compete with people across the street on SmartCross touch screens.
In my opinion, the game is a brilliant way to incorporate the resilience of a city that has faced devastating earthquakes with the fun and creative vibe that allowed its citizens to thrive following the disasters.
[It's] a brilliant way to incorporate the resilience of a city that has faced devastating earthquakes with [its] fun and creative vibe.
Give it a try! Who knows, you might enjoy Attack of the Cones so much you forget all about your impatience, let the number tick down on the crosswalk timer, and play another game.
If you're looking for more information, check out Stuff.co.nz, and be sure to comment below if you've run into something like this in other cities!
📍 Christchurch, New Zealand
