Google is great when it comes to helping users harness its data to learn about our world, but a new tool geared toward children takes that dynamic to a new level by turning maps into a kind of game.

SEE ALSO:Google Earth gets a fancy new look thanks to NASA satellite data

Verne: The Himalayasis an app that uses the three-dimensional data from Google Maps and presents it through the guidance of a 500-foot tall friendly Yeti named Verne.

Credit: google

The app, which uses the Unity Game Engine, allows you to control the cartoon-style Yeti as it walks, runs, hand glides, skates and even jetpacks around the Himalayan Mountains.

Mashable Top StoriesStay connected with the hottest stories of the day and the latest entertainment news.Sign up for Mashable's Top Stories newsletterBy signing up you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.Thanks for signing up!

The interactive exploration includes a trip up Mt. Everest, and the entire experience uses visual prompts, goals and a host voice to aid the user in learning about the area's history and geographic profile.

The educational game is free and only available on Android here.

TopicsAndroidApps & SoftwareGamingGoogle

(责任编辑：百科)