Kids today learn about the steps we can take to protect the earth from a very young age. The Matter Group has taken eco-learning to the next level with their great award winning two-player collectible XEKO eco-adventure trading card games.

The first edition, Mission Madagascar was a huge hit with eco-kids everywhere. In the second & newest edition, Mission Costa Rica, kids learn about some amazing animals, explore the principles of bio-diversity and go on a virtual adventure through the 12 distinct ecosystems of Costa Rica.
Each player has a deck of cards and each card is either a species of animal, a power-up “Boost” card or a special XEKO card. The endangered species wage “turf wars” against each other that mimic real-life nature drama. A turf war is won when one player lays down a more viable ecosystem than the other. When one player runs out of cards both players add up their Eco-Points, plus some bonus points, and the highest score wins the game! (Watch the animated game demo for a better understanding.)

The cards are stunningly illustrated and are printed on recycled paper.

From the XEKO site: A Xeko Master understands that balance is required to support any ecosystem. A balance of spending resources to support diverse—and sometimes endangered—species, as well as conserving resources for the future. The competition for resources can be fierce among species and competition between Xeko Apprentices can be equally ferocious at times.

Check the Xekopedia for information on all the cards and some super cool information about the animals.

Being that our kids are the future guardians of the planet, we should be doing everything we can to increase their awareness of and sensitivity to the earth and it’s inhabitants. What better way than play?

Mission Costa Rica retails for $29.99 USD and booster packs are available for $3.99. Check the Xeko storefinder for online and storefront retailers. Four percent of net sales are donated to Conservation International. Watch for Mission Indonesia coming out at Christmas 2007. The XEKO games are intended for children aged 8 and up.

We’ve got a XEKO Mission Costa Rica game to give to one lucky TOP reader. To be entered in the random draw, email us before midnight tonight and tell us one of the Costa Rican animals featured in the Xekopedia. Congratulations JR!