Fantasy Birding: A Competitive Online Game for Birdwatchers

Core Concepts

Fantasy birding is a unique online game created by Matt Smith that combines birdwatching, sports, and web development to offer a competitive experience for bird enthusiasts.

Abstract

Fantasy birding is an innovative online game that allows participants to compete in spotting bird species within the United States and Canada using a citizen-science database. Players strategically select locations on a map daily and earn points based on real-life sightings by other birders. The game encourages exploration of different habitats and offers challenges to spot rare birds, creating an engaging experience for users. Despite its initial appeal, some players may lose interest due to the ease of real-life birdwatching opportunities. However, the creator, Matt Smith, aims to expand the game's features and foster a community of dedicated players.

Stats

The fantasy birding league has attracted 358 players.
The user MaxBirding in first place has spotted 549 species since January.
MaxBirding has also identified 50 rarities during the competition.

Quotes

"It doesn’t matter how ridiculous the thing you’re doing is," said Smith. "If enough people do it together, it’ll be a good time."

Key Insights Distilled From

Fantasy Birding Is Real, And It's Spectacular

by at deadspin.com 03-18-2019

https://deadspin.com/fantasy-birding-is-real-and-its-spectacular-1833374916

Deeper Inquiries

How does fantasy birding compare to traditional fantasy sports in terms of engagement?

Fantasy birding offers a unique twist compared to traditional fantasy sports like football or baseball. While both involve competition and tracking statistics, fantasy birding allows participants to engage with nature and citizen science in a way that traditional sports do not. In fantasy birding, players use real-life data from eBird to select locations on a map and earn points based on birds spotted by others in those areas. This adds an element of unpredictability and connection to the natural world that is distinct from the more predictable outcomes of traditional sports games.

What challenges might arise from scoring based on species rarity in fantasy birding?

Scoring based on species rarity in fantasy birding could present several challenges for players. One potential issue is the subjectivity involved in determining which species are considered rare enough to earn extra points. Different regions may have varying definitions of what constitutes a rare bird, leading to discrepancies in scoring across locations. Additionally, focusing too heavily on rare species could detract from the overall enjoyment of the game by placing too much emphasis on competition rather than appreciation for all types of birds. Balancing the scoring system to reward rarity while still valuing common species could be a challenge for developers looking to implement this feature.

How can online communities like those formed around fantasy birding impact participants' real-world experiences?

Online communities centered around activities like fantasy birding can have a significant impact on participants' real-world experiences by fostering connections, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for collaboration. These communities provide a platform for enthusiasts to interact with like-minded individuals, exchange tips and strategies, and celebrate each other's successes. By engaging with others who share their passion for birdwatching, participants can enhance their understanding of different species, learn about new locations worth exploring, and even form lasting friendships with fellow members.
Moreover, these online communities can inspire individuals to become more active in their real-world pursuits by providing motivation through friendly competition and shared goals. Participants may feel encouraged to spend more time outdoors observing birds firsthand or contribute valuable data to citizen science projects such as eBird. Overall, online communities play a vital role in enriching participants' real-world experiences by offering support, camaraderie, and resources that enhance their enjoyment of the hobby beyond just playing the game itself.