This application offers an engaging and entertaining experience suitable for users of all ages. It provides an opportunity to explore the Civil War through interactive activities such as searching for virtual historical artifacts on the battlefield and collecting virtual gold coins as rewards. As users progress, they can advance through military ranks from Private up to Major General, making the experience both fun and educational.
The app features animated archival photos of soldiers, women, and an African American journalist, which come to life as animated avatars. These avatars narrate lesser-known stories, shedding light on personal experiences and the struggles faced by ordinary people affected by the Civil War. This storytelling approach helps users gain a deeper understanding of the human side of history and the profound impact of the battle, which resulted in the highest number of casualties during the war.
Designed for flexibility, the app can be used anywhere—whether at home, in the classroom, in a park, or directly on the Gettysburg battlefield. When visiting Gettysburg, users can unlock the full version of the app and utilize their location to immerse themselves in a time-travel experience. The app guides users through the historical site, allowing them to see stories and significant events unfold at the specific locations where they actually occurred, creating a more authentic and immersive experience.
Key features of the app include a free trial with the option to unlock the full Gettysburg: A Nation Divided experience later, the use of cutting-edge mixed reality technology to narrate the battle's story, and 360-degree slow-motion scenes depicting critical moments. The app also offers a wayfinding system with panoramic views of ten battlefield locations, annotated flags, and landmark identification, helping users understand troop positions and command structures. Additional highlights include a scavenger hunt for artifacts, earning virtual coins, achieving military ranks, and a special augmented reality presentation of Abraham Lincoln delivering the Gettysburg Address at the actual site of his speech.