mtvU, MTV's college network, has held a contest each of the past three years, inviting college students to submit game designs that address a current social issue. The first of these was Darfur is Dying, about the Sudanese conflict, the second Pos or Not, about HIV. This year, the theme is debt, a most apt choice. mtvU is advancing this campaign on the website Indebted.com

Brian Haveri of Milburn, NJ submitted the winning game concept in mtvU's Indebted Digital Challenge, and mtvU contracted with my studio Persuasive Games to complete the design and development. The game, entitled Debt Ski, was just released, and you can now play it online.

Players of Debt Ski must maneuver the game's central character, Piggy Banks, through a series of obstacles to maximize his savings, limit his debt and maintain his level of happiness – all while making payments for necessities like housing and food. The player chooses a lifestyle (which sets his basic obligations), then must earn enough to meet those needs. Discretionary purchases will make you happier, but spending beyond your means has long-term consequences. Upgrading your watercraft can make it easier to negotiate life's terrain, but that too costs money. And unexpected expenses like medical bills or a rent hike might throw a wrench in even the best financial plans.