EpicMix Takes Gamification to the Slopes

If you live in the continental United States, winter is probably the furthest thing from your mind right now. However, if you do happen to be planning ahead for or fantasizing about the next skiing season while the AC fails to cool you down, the resort town of Vail in Colorado made a new, gamified addition to its slopes that’s worth a look.

Like Chromarama, Vail puts the RFID scanners it’s installed for lift pass verification to an additional use by tracking specific user’s usage patterns. EpicMix is a program that lets you view and share the information collected about your time on the slopes. You can view how many vertical feet you’ve skied and how many times you’ve been to each station. These statistics accrue, allowing users to gain a higher level to display on their profile. There are also achievement/badge-like “pins,” which are colorful additions to a user’s profile unlocked by achieving various milestones, such as riding a lift a specific number of times.

The EpicMix system has since expanded beyond Vail to Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, and Heavenly. As it relies on lift station tracking, the system does have its limitations. You won’t find information (or achievements) based on speed–of course, considering that this would encourage reckless behavior, that might be a good thing. You won’t be tracked if you choose to hike up the mountain, either.

Despite these drawbacks, the app appears to have utility beyond the tracking and sharing aspect, such as an instant messaging component to get in touch with others on the slopes. It is also arranged carefully so parents can safely share their children’s achievements without putting their privacy at risk. It probably won’t be the deciding factor in whether or not someone chooses to head out to Vail, but it does seem like an enjoyable addition to your skiing experience–and a way to accurately brag about it when you get back.

Gamification Co will be hosting it’s second Gamification Summit in New York on September 15-16. Join keynotes from Gilt Groupe CEO Alexandra Wilkis Wilson and 42 Entertainment’s founder, Susan Bonds, to learn how the new science of engagement is rewriting the rules of product design. For Gamification Blog readers, use discount code GCOBLOG for 25% off at http://gsummit.com/register. We look forward to seeing you there!