Special Feature
Birmingham-based Bible video game publisher, Foundation for Intelligent Media & Design (IMD Interactive), has developed and published a free Bible based video game for youth ministries to increase Scripture engagement. The Anointed: David Saves Keilah, is a third person action-adventure RPG following the early life of David from shepherd to king. The Anointed is the franchise dedicated to telling stories of the Bible’s mightiest heroes through gameplay, cinematography, and scripture.
According to the State of the Bible, published by Barna Group and the American Bible Society, Americans are less engaged in the Bible and only 5% of adults read their Bible 4-6 times a week in 2021. In contrast, the gaming industry continues to expand its footprint. IMD Interactive President Drayton Cosby believes that daily Bible reading is at an all-time low in America and that is contributing to the increased amounts of fear, anxiety, depression, and anger. “We want the Church and its members to know that IMD Interactive is fighting for them,” Cosby said, adding, “Showing future generations that God is searching for them is a big reason why we were led to merge the Bible and video games. To redeem the gaming space for His kingdom.”
The Anointed: David Saves Keilah delivers the narrative of 1 Samuel Chapter 22-23 in an interactive game play environment. The player is David, loyal servant, and military leader for king. Saul, who discovers the king’s jealousy has now turned to rage and is in hiding from the king and his army. The player can run, climb, scale walls, swing from ropes and ride a horse through their journey to save Keilah. The game play requires stealth, combat, and strategy to fulfill God’s plan and save the people from the Philistines, while being hunted by Saul.
IMD Interactive recently filled a new position for Director of Ministry. Reverend David Ely brings over 10 years of experience in development, fundraising and ordained ministry to help support IMD Interactive’s mission of delivering the Bible to generations of video gamers. “As a husband and father of four, I look forward to serving our churches and parents in particular in providing the opportunity to engage in God’s grand Story in such a unique and personal way,” Ely said.
The Anointed: David Saves Keilah is an early access release of the upcoming franchise blockbuster The Anointed: Heart of David, which is available for free on Steam. Steam is a video game digital distribution service and storefront. The service is the largest digital distribution platform for PC gaming. The David Saves Keilah Steam store page showcases an in-game trailer, photos, and mapping, among other features. To subscribe, donate or keep up with the latest information about IMD Interactive, visit imdinteractive.org.
