Nov. 01--With Nik Wallenda readying for his Chicago high-wire walk Sunday, anyone can get in on the balancing act ... virtually speaking.
"SkyBalance by Nik Wallenda," a mobile game launched Friday, lets players use their thumbs to balance a Wallenda character on a wire between buildings without a harness or safety net, just like the real-life plan Sunday.
Players tap the screen to keep Wallenda steady while bracing against gusts of wind, dodging flying birds and, at higher scores, helicopters.
Unlike Sunday -- when Wallenda plans to walk on a high wire between the Marina City west tower and the Leo Burnett building -- the aim in the game is balance, not also walking.
"I'm looking forward to seeing if there are any master players out there who can stay balanced on the virtual wire as long as I'm on the high wire this Sunday," Wallenda said in a statement.
The Tribune's very limited test proved that some journalists don't have the gaming skills to dodge helicopters. Wallenda fell often in our offices.
The graphics are decidedly retro. The character, clouds and birds are reminiscent of Atari-era "Pitfall", while the buildings feature cleaner lines.
The game, available in the iTunes App Store and coming to Google Play and the Amazon Appstore, is free. Be prepared to wait through advertisements for other games between rounds.
"SkyBalance by Nik Wallenda" is a joint effort between Tapinator and HyperPower Game Group.
HyperPower came up with the idea, got the license from Wallenda and pulled together a deal with Discovery Channel, according to press materials.
Discovery Channel will air Wallenda's Chicago skywalk Sunday.
jwohl@tribune.com
Twitter @jessicawohl
