First Day
It’s the first day of secondary school.
As if there wasn’t already enough to think about, Aleks has discovered a strange creature in her bag. It eats electronics, hates the sound of the school bell and shapeshifts whenever Aleks tries to tell a teacher about it. Aleks will need to navigate the school, find (sometimes unlikely) allies among the staff and students, and generally think on her feet to cope with whatever this strange creature throws at her.
But with a little help from her new friends -and you the players- Aleks is determined to make it through her first day!
First Day is a light-hearted and playful game about transitioning to secondary school. It combines graphic novel-style illustration, audio drama, story ‘choice points’ and puzzles. Players make choices about what Aleks should do and solve puzzles to help her… puzzles which involve them practicing skills they will need, like reading timetables, prioritising actions and navigating a new space.
The relatable characters, humour and fact that Aleks’ problems revolve around a Pokemon-esque shapeshifter with a nervous disposition keep the experience fun and engaging - but through playing, participants are able to explore their own feelings about transitioning to a new school. During the game, they explore strategies for handling the anxiety and excitement that accompany being in a new environment.
Documentation film
Buy the game
You can buy one game link (£3.50), which allows up to 6 people to play on different devices. Or -if you are, for example, a teacher- you can buy a bundle of 6 game links (£8.00), each of which can have 6 people playing… so that the whole class can play!
Credits
First Day was co-created with the Year 6 pupils at Katesgrove Primary School in Reading. All the good ideas are theirs. It is supported using public funding by Arts Council England.
Cast and creative team
WRITTEN BY Delme Thomas, Rachel Briscoe & 2022/23 Year 6 at Katesgrove Primary School | INTERFACE DESIGN by Joe McAlister and Mirko Febbo | ILLUSTRATOR Marco Drago | SOUND DESIGNER Helen Skiera | ARTISTIC ASSOCIATE Dan Barnard | COMMS DESIGN Guy J Sanders | CAST: ALEKS Baylee Frank | MEI Alice Valeriano | NIKHIL Yajur Jayendhar | HANNAH Lyla Attwooll | TAYA Ariella Adu-Kingsley | AMARI Mark Mwangi | CLEMMIE Rose Skiera | MADAME PERCIVAL Rachel Donovan | MISS BROOMFIELD Endy McKay | COACH RYAN/ MR FISHER Delme Thomas | WITH THANKS TO Martyna Adamska, Sherine Ahmed, Adam Elliott & John Luther
FAQs
What is First Day?
First Day is a light-hearted and playful game about transitioning to secondary school. It combines graphic novel-style illustration, audio drama, story ‘choice points’ and puzzles. Players make choices about what Aleks should do and solve puzzles to help her… puzzles which involve them practicing skills they will need, like reading timetables, prioritising actions and navigating a new space.
Who is it for?
First Day is for anyone who likes a good story - but was designed for and with young people who are preparing to transition from Primary to Secondary School.
So Fast Familiar created the game with young people?
That’s right - with Year 6 pupils (2022-2023) at Katesgrove Primary School in Reading. All the good ideas are theirs.
How long does First Day normally take?
It depends on how quickly you make choices and solve puzzles, but probably between 60 and 90 minutes.
How can I play? You can:
- Play with people in the same physical space as you (e.g. a classroom), with all of you around the same computer/ looking at the same board.
- Play with people in the same physical space as you, each of you with your own device (but remember to turn down the sound on all but one of the devices!)
- Play remotely with people who are in different places – you’ll all need to be playing at the same time, and you need a WhatsApp group or to have a Zoom running (other video call providers also available).
What do I need to play First Day?
A computer or tablet device and internet access. You will need to use Chrome as your web browser while on a computer (free to download online), or Safari if you are on a tablet.
How many people can play at once?
Your link will work for up to 6 devices – we recommend teams of 2-5 but you can play in a smaller group, or a larger group if multiple people gather around the same device, or on your own if you want.
Do I have to be really good with technology to play?
Absolutely not - First Day will ask you to use various skills but no tech whizzkid credentials.
Do I have to play First Day at a certain time?
No, whenever works for you.
Does First Day have a time limit?
No, take all the time you need.
Do I need to use my link immediately?
No, you can login just before you play. If you have any problems, let us know - [email protected]