Description

"Packy and Marlon" is an educational adventure platformer released for the Super Nintendo Entertainment System (SNES) in 1995. The game features two diabetic elephants, Packy and Marlon, who are at summer camp when a gang of rats steals all their diabetes supplies. Players control either Packy or Marlon through various levels that incorporate managing their diabetes effectively while retrieving the stolen items. The game emphasizes the importance of controlling blood sugar levels, recognizing symptoms of high and low blood sugar, proper diet, and the use of insulin. This engaging method aims to educate children about diabetes management through interactive gameplay and gradually increasing challenges.

Developed by WaveQuest and published by Raya Systems, "Packy and Marlon" was part of a series of health-related educational games designed to teach children about different medical conditions. The game is notable for being one of the few of its time to address a specific health issue through gameplay mechanics. It included a multi-layer inventory system for managing food, insulin, and testing supplies essential for the characters' survival and success. The game's role in educational health not only provided entertainment but also served as a tool for diabetes education, helping young players understand and manage their condition more effectively. This innovative approach to health education in gaming set a precedent for subsequent educational video games that targeted other chronic health issues.