Together with the amiable AI ibex 'Bocki,' players embark on a virtual journey of discovery through Switzerland. Station by station, they build central AI competencies: from data analysis and image recognition to ethical questions regarding data protection and automation. Humorous dialogues and quizzes unveil surprising Swiss secrets. Who would have thought that the Matterhorn has African roots? Or that a simple overpressure valve could become a tourist attraction? ODYSSAI is available to play for free.
'Digital security begins with competence. Those who understand AI can use it securely and autonomously,' says Primo Amrein, AI Skills Director at Microsoft Switzerland. 'We don't see AI as an abstract technology but as a tool that empowers people in their decisions,' adds Primo Amrein. 'With ODYSSAI, we wanted to show how AI can provide orientation in complex systems. Mobility is the perfect context for this: it makes goal conflicts, dependencies, and effects instantly tangible - and thus also the responsible use of AI.'
Bernhard Bieri, Director Club of the Touring Club Switzerland, adds: 'With ODYSSAI, we co-developed a game that makes the opportunities of AI and the diversity of mobility visible and shows how AI can support, for example, the choice of transport mode. This also aligns with the values of TCS and our commitment to self-determined mobility.'
A game that makes us rethink mobility
The AI skills are linked to the theme of mobility during the virtual journey. Players must set priorities: save time, money, or energy? The train is fast but more expensive. The bike is sustainable but slower. What matters more? Random obstacles create unexpected twists: landing on the wrong train? The bike has a flat tire? Now, it's time to improvise. Those who play ODYSSAI realize: Mobility isn't just about movement, it's about quality of life.
In between, quizzes and mini-games challenge skill and logical thinking, from street puzzles to jump 'n' run. 'The learning process in ODYSSAI is intuitive. This way, people understand how the underlying algorithms of Artificial Intelligence work and how systems learn,' says Primo Amrein. 'Without technical jargon - but with a clear understanding of how AI supports in everyday life.'
Non-Profit Initiative Sets New Standards in Digital Education
ODYSSAI makes a responsible approach to AI technologies tangible: 'AI is helpful like a good co-driver: It can offer tips, but we keep our hands on the wheel,' says Amrein. In casual, humorous dialogues and quizzes, players learn that AI can recognize patterns, make predictions, and support decisions - but the final decision always rests with humans. Mobility thus becomes an educational moment.
TCS brought its expertise in various mobility forms into the project. In ODYSSAI, players discover in a playful way the typical differences between modes of transport - in terms of time, cost, or energy requirements - and choose between bike, car, or public transport depending on the situation. This emphasizes TCS's commitment to diverse and appropriate mobility, depicted in a deliberately simplified model.
Technological Innovation with Societal Relevance
When players encounter traffic jams, construction sites, or speed limits, the benefits of AI become immediately apparent: AI helps to recognize dangers and obstacles early. 'ODYSSAI combines technological depth with real everyday benefits. Mobility is lived everyday life. This makes the game real, relevant, and credible,' says Primo Amrein.