We're often asked why we don't build Bible software for kids. The short answer is: we tried (long ago), and discovered that it's a hard market. Kids have high-expectations for production values, don't particularly want to study, and have short attention spans for things that don't enthrall them. And parents buy them so much media, they won't pay much for any particular piece.
And that was in the days of $49.95 software packages for kids; now it's free apps and $0.99 purchases. (!)
A friend of Faithlife built an impressive Bible-themed game with high production values, interactive games, and a remarkable adherence to the biblical story line. It's free to download, and at a certain point offers a $2.99 purchase to complete the game.
http://www.righteoustales.com/
I don't now the financial picture, but I'm pretty sure it is one that won't be leading to sequels.
What do you think? Is there a need / market desire here? Do you want Bible stories and Bible themed games for your kids on mobile devices? Would you pay more for higher quality products? Is it just too noisy in the app stores? How do you decide what is quality and what isn't? Would it help if you heard about apps through other channels? Purchased them as part of a subscription to a bigger collection of biblical kids content?
Is there a sustainable model for building these apps? (Is there even a need?) Or are we doomed to an endless series of one-off apps built by well-intentioned people who, one after another, discover there is no viable funding model? :-)
And what about video? Is there a need for more Bible stories, education, and faith-friendly entertainment? Or is there enough floating out there on YouTube to meet your needs? (And are you okay watching it on YouTube, with the ads and other content?)
I'd appreciate your answering our survey if you have young kids or grandkids:
https://www.logos.com/usersurvey/kidsvideoentertainment
Thanks!
-- Bob
