In a perfect world, video games and exercise go hand in hand, making getting fit and having fun a synonymous endeavor enjoyed by everyone. Unfortunately for most, divvying up time between games and fitness can be a daunting task… unless you’re an engineer living in Finland, that is. At the Aalto University in Espoo, a team of creators have take on the task of creating the Augmented Climbing Wall, a rock-climbing adventure that pairs perfectly with a neat twist on the game of Pong. The Augmented Climbing Wall utilizes Kinect sensors and projectors to function properly, while PC’s run the program. And of course, the players are most important to the game, as it takes a level of physical fitness to scale the walls up, down, and sideways to ensure the Pong ball doesn’t score for the opponent. Check out the video below to see the game in action:

This massive, totally interactive Pong game is definitely a great way to shed calories while tackling your opponents in good, clean fun. The projectors and computers project the image of the game board onto the rock wall, while players get into position. Then, as the Pong ball flies across the board, players must use their skills to “kick” or “knock” the ball back and forth, while the Kinect sensors capture the motions. It is certainly an innovative way to tackle this ageless title, and creator Raine Kajastila (a rock climber who has utilized his skill to create an amazing game) and his team have done a great job, opening up several walls like this in several countries.

Thoughts on the Augmented Climbing Wall and its interactive Pong game? How many fans would love a chance to try this game out for themselves? Make sure to join in on the discussion in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow DFTG on Twitter for live gaming and entertainment updates 24/7. As always … game on, friends!