Imagine a world where Bible stories leap off the page and into the hands of tech-savvy kids and teens, all through the power of a mobile game. That’s exactly what Crown of Life, a groundbreaking game developed by a young Adventist in Spain, aims to achieve. Launched in September 2025, this innovative app is not just another game—it’s a digital bridge connecting young people across the Trans-European Division (TED) to timeless biblical narratives and the values of the Pathfinder Club. But here’s where it gets controversial: Can a video game truly deepen faith and spark curiosity about religion in an increasingly secular world? Let’s dive in.
Developed by Erik Hook, a passionate Pathfinder alumnus, Crown of Life is designed to immerse players in interactive challenges set in Pathfinder-themed environments. Early trials in northern Spain have already captured the attention of young people both within and outside the Adventist Church, with many expressing interest in Pathfinders for the very first time. Hook’s vision was simple yet profound: to share the global camaraderie of the Pathfinder Club with a broader audience. “I wanted to convey the joy and unity I felt as part of this international family,” he explained. “And what better way to do that than through the most popular media of our time—video games?”
But this is the part most people miss: Hook’s project is rooted in a long-standing belief that the Church must meet young people where they are—in the digital spaces they inhabit daily. “As a kid, I wished I had a video game about Bible stories to share with friends,” he recalled. “With gaming being the largest media platform today, it felt essential for us to be part of that conversation.”
TED leaders have embraced the initiative as a vital step in engaging youth. Kevin Johns, TED Associate Youth Director, highlighted its relevance: “Many of our young people already spend hours gaming each day. Crown of Life brings faith into that space, offering leaders and parents a natural way to connect with them.” The game not only introduces players to well-known Bible stories but also sheds light on lesser-known characters and books, filling gaps often overlooked in traditional children’s resources.
Here’s the bold question: Can gaming truly be a tool for discipleship? Hook believes so, but with a caveat. “Every tool carries risks, so it must be used prayerfully and responsibly,” he cautioned. “Yet, games have the power to build community, uniting people across languages and cultures around shared stories and goals. That’s a powerful opportunity.”
One of the most surprising outcomes has been the game’s reception among secular youth in Spain, a country where religious engagement is typically low. Hook admitted he initially feared backlash but was met with enthusiasm instead. “People who knew nothing about Pathfinders wanted to learn more,” he shared. “Many had never heard these Bible stories before, and now they’re carrying them in their pockets. It’s breaking stereotypes and opening doors for conversations about the Church.”
Parents, too, have praised the game as a faith-centered alternative to mainstream gaming. One parent noted, “My child loves gaming, and while I sometimes worry about screen time, I’m thrilled to see him engaged with something that nurtures his faith. It’s planting seeds and encouraging him in a way that feels organic.”
As Crown of Life expands beyond Spain, Hook hopes its impact will ripple across Europe and beyond. “We want everyone to feel part of something bigger,” he said. “The Pathfinder Club is already vast, but there’s always room to grow. We’re adapting the content for diverse cultures and praying it reaches more young hearts.”
Hook encourages youth leaders to view the game as a shared ministry resource. “This isn’t just my game or my club’s game—it’s everyone’s,” he emphasized. “Don’t hesitate to share it with the young people you work with. They’ll love it, and we’re open to feedback to make it even better for different communities.”
With requests pouring in to showcase the game at events and public spaces, Hook is optimistic about its potential. “Every introduction is a chance for more young people to encounter Bible stories, discover Pathfinders, and engage with the Church in a positive way,” he said.
Crown of Life is now available for download on the Apple App Store and Google Play Store. For inquiries, Erik Hook can be contacted at email protected.
Now, we want to hear from you: Do you think video games can be a meaningful tool for faith development? Or is this blending of technology and religion a step too far? Share your thoughts in the comments—let’s spark a conversation!
