Thursday, January 26, 2012

SparkBridge swims out of Vancouver Aquarium, FableVision Studios

By Rodney H. Brown

SparkBridge Interactive has launched today, tapping former Blue Fang Games COO Scott Triola as its new CEO, and aiming to bring a gamification platform to mobile apps.

In a release Thursday, SparkBridge noted it was a new joint venture between FableVision Studios in Boston and the Vancouver Aquarium. The new company will offer a “global, cooperative platform that leverages a customizable game framework to join together informal learning environments, visitors and positive content creators.” SparkBridge will launch its first app in the second quarter of this year at the Vancouver Aquarium.

In a statement, Triola said, “What sets our model apart is that we are combining proven game mechanics, a mobile technology platform and site-specific content expertise to deliver a unique interactive experience to the visitors of aquariums, zoos and museums.” SparkBridge will be based in Boston, co-located at FableVision Studios.

When reached by phone, Triola described the first app as essentially a mobile game to help aquarium visitors get more from their trip.

“It is a game, it is something that people will play for entertainment but it comes down to, ‘What is a game?’,” he said. “In our case we’re talking about something that engages people and they interact with, but it’s really about getting them to look around and connect with their environment.”

Prior to his time at Blue Fang, Triola worked at Atari, The Boston Consulting Group and his own consulting firm, 5X5 Advisors. Triola also serves on the External Advisory Board for Northeastern University Creative Industries, Game Design & Interactive Media program and is a member of the Boston Mayoral Video Game Steering Committee. He holds a bachelor’s degree in business economics and psychology from Brown University and an MBA from the Wharton School of the University of Pennsylvania.

Waltham-based Blue Fang essentially shut down this summer, laying off its development staff in July. The company had been attempting a strong push into social online games for platforms like Facebook and mobile devices, with games based on those franchises and new intellectual property. It shut down completely in September.

Triola is tapping resources at both parent companies to get the apps created, and is running the shop solo so far.

“I am the sole full time employee and I’m working with FableVision’s development team and I’m also working directly with Vancouver,” he said. “Ultimately there is a plan to staff up SparkBridge.”