by Ernest Drake
First published 2012
Ernest Drake presents his comprehensive study of monsters through an interactive system that bridges physical and digital worlds. The guide comes with a complete set of 100 Nuko trading cards that transform into animated creatures within a companion 3D strategy game. Players command these monsters through twenty distinct battle scenarios, deploying traps and magical artifacts against computer opponents. Each Nuko card represents a unique creature that springs to life when integrated into the digital battlefield. The game offers multiple objectives across its levels, ensuring continued engagement beyond the initial story campaign. Drake's approach combines traditional monster lore with modern gaming technology, creating an experience where collectors can witness their physical cards gain digital life and participate in tactical combat.
Genres: science-fiction, adventure, fantasy, 21st-century
Vibes: thought-provoking, whimsical
Tropes: found-family, physical-digital-crossover
32 pages · Hardcover · Candlewick