Community Assistance
Social Contribution through Games
American Public Schools Use KONAMI’s Game for Physical Education Programs ? Dance Dance Revolution
KONAMI's music game DanceDanceRevolution (DDR), is being used in the U.S. state of West Virginia as a tool for combating the problem of childhood obesity.
Since January 2006, based on a partnership agreement between KONAMI and the state of West Virginia, DDR has been implemented in the physical education and health-related curriculums at all public junior high and high schools throughout the State. Now fully integrated at all public junior high and high schools, DDR is currently being introduced into elementary school curriculums as well.
Children attending these schools have shown increased interest in fitness and activity through playing DDR. DDR encourages children to engage in fitness and fun by dancing to choreographed steps through easy to use and interactive gameplay. Playing the game provides children an alternative means to exercise, which is the key factor in improving and maintaining a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, studies have shown DDR, when used over long periods, also improves overall health and can reduce the risk of diabetes.
Other organizations outside of West Virginia have also begun to introduce DDR as part of their physical education programs, a trend that should gain momentum going forward.
