Chip & Friends (2000)

director: Matthew Lubetich
written by: Richard Valentine
format: Interactive V1.0
distribution: Computer Learning Foundation (USA)

synopsis: Chip & Friends Interactive V1.0 presents a variety of important computer related topics in a manner that all children can easily learn and understand. Adapted from the original Chip & Friends Video/Handbook Scholastic Program, this Interactive version is intended to be used in both the scholastic and private sectors.

Designed to make the challenges of teaching computer etiquette to a child simpler, Chip & Friends is not merely a game but an entire educational experience. It consists of seven interactive games, each with its own video that addresses individual issues and introduces the topic at hand. A Gaming Guide and a Teachers Guide have also been included, as well as, a printable poster of Chip and his parts, rules and glossary that can be hung by your computer.

By following the provided guidelines, these materials will give your child an initial understanding of what computers are, how to take care of them, and the rules they need to follow in order to become responsible computer users.

"This is delightful. I especially enjoyed the sounds of children, the songs, the videos, and the games-- and ---well--everything".

Dr. Merle Marsh, Director of Special Projects, Worcester Preparatory School

"We really loved the CD. The kids especially liked watching the videos and then playing a game. Most activities captured their interest".

Brenda Thornton, Marketing & Operations Manager, Thornsoft Development, Inc.

The Atterbury Foundation commissioned The Big Twenty to develop and produce an edutainment title based on its existing Emmy nominated video program titled Chip & Friends.

The project lifecycle lasted fourteen months. Dedicating four months to gaming and GUI design, the remaining ten months were required for authoring, change orders, and testing.

"The scope of work grew 50% from initial design sign-off. That's a significant budget increase for an independently financed program. But from a creative standpoint, the end result was well worth the growing pains". said Lubetich.

Along with The Big Twenty, five companies lent their interactive expertise in ensuring Chip & Friends successful outcome:

Gaming and GUI elements we're developed by Director Matt Lubetich, Writer Richard Valentine, gaming consultant Adrienne Edmonson, educational consultant Kirk Kriskovich, and Illustrator Garth Mix.

Authoring and Testing was completed by the ultra talented team from Tacoma, Artifex Business Identity Development.

For Character Animation V.O., Lubetich returned to Images in Motion, the Production Company responsible for C&F's video elements.

Original Illustration was completed by artist/illustrator Garth Mix and his team at G. Mix Design.

ADR was completed by engineer Kincaid Miller in Mill Valley, California, while all Sound Design, Foley, and Engineering services were completed by Scott Colburn at Gravelvoice Studios in Seattle, Wa.