GDC 2012: 'Self' magazine enters games business

Women's health magazine Self is exercising its game development muscles.

The magazine has announced it will launch a Facebook game later this month based on its annual fitness event Workout in the Park.

The game, Self Workout in the Park, features mechanics similar to FarmVille, in which players create a character, slowly build an outdoor fitness park and keep their character in shape with a variety of workouts.

"This game puts Self on the leading edge of one of the most vibrant consumer experiences just as the market for high-quality branded games, goods and virtual services is exploding," says Vice President and Publisher Laura McEwen in a statement.

Players start by creating a custom avatar with unique facial features and body types. After answering a handful of questions, they can hop into their parks and tackle a variety of missions to build their fitness park.

Items such as treadmills, stationary bikes, yoga mats and trampolines can be added, as well as trees, shrubs and other decorative items.

There's a social layer to the game, as players can give gifts, invite friends to visit their parks or check out another person's venue.

Characters have a set level of energy they use daily on a variety of workouts, ranging from easy to hard. These activities bolster stats such as protein and allow the player to level up. Mini games such as mixing smoothies are also available to speed the leveling-up process.

Perhaps most interesting thing about the game is the integration of a mobile app launching of Apple's iOS platform in April. Users can log their real workouts onto the game and earn additional experience and perks.