Frank Swain is a science writer and blogger. He is based in the UK.
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Unlike most games, this one wants you to prevent havoc, not create it! But it's still fun! Following in the footsteps of The Great Flu, this is a game designed by the noble people responsible for saving lives in real world situations. Stop Disasters! lets you play the role of the UN International Strategy for Disaster Reduction, pitting your wits against a multitude of Mother Nature's worst tantrums - wildfires, hurricanes, tsunamis, floods and more. You'll be expected to put in homes, early warning systems, and carry out improvements to existing buildings whilst installing defences in the natural landscape such as fire breaks and flood walls, all while staying on budget. (Pro tip: don't be afraid to bulldoze a house or hotel if it's in a dangerous location).
Brightly animated and easy to use, the game is beguiling fun. But a weary realism always lurks under the pixellated veneer. "Expect advice along the way" the start screen states, "both good and bad". The game was designed to educate children, one of the most vulnerable groups in any disaster.
Each scenario lasts around 10-20 minutes. Click here to play.
