FutureScape
Created in partnership with ASU Educational Outreach and Student Services (EOSS), FutureScape is a game for middle schoolers to explore various STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, Math) careers. Covering 15 industries across eight areas, including marine biology, manufacturing engineering, and forensic science, this virtual career fair features mini-games that simulate STEAM work experiences in engaging ways.
FutureScape is a virtual career fair designed to introduce middle school students to diverse STEAM careers in an engaging, interactive environment. In collaboration with ASU’s Educational Outreach and Student Services (EOSS), Next Lab developed this program by identifying 15 key industries across eight fields: pharmaceuticals, cosmetic chemistry, marketing/communications/media, marine biology/veterinary science, manufacturing and mechanical engineering, astronomy, forensic science and law, aircraft engineering, and industrial engineering/urban planning.
Each industry is represented by a dedicated virtual room containing a unique minigame, allowing students to explore career-specific responsibilities and challenges through gamified, hands-on activities. For example, students can simulate designing an assembly line or dive virtually into the ocean to treat marine animals, offering a playful yet informative look into each profession.
Additionally, FutureScape highlights ASU programs related to each career. In every virtual room, students can explore ASU’s relevant degrees, certifications, schools, and resources, along with career descriptions, responsibilities, specializations, and salary ranges, helping them envision a pathway for further education and career development.
Accessible on both XR and desktop platforms, FutureScape provides students with flexible options: a fully immersive experience on Meta Quest headsets or a web-based version for desktop users. Middle school students at ASU Prep Poly participated as early playtesters, experiencing the minigames firsthand, completing feedback forms, and joining focus groups to share their insights. Many of their recommendations—such as refined tutorial elements and a greater emphasis on exploratory, sandbox-style play—were incorporated into the final version of FutureScape.
The impact has been significant, with many students expressing newfound interest in careers they hadn’t considered. Since its launch, FutureScape has expanded to more middle schools throughout the valley, transforming career days and exploration units into fun, memorable, and meaningful experiences.
In October 2025, Next Lab began a phase 2 of FutureScape focusing on optimization and enhancements, improving tutorials and adding a tooltip system for an easier and more accessible user experience, and adding three new minigames for Film Production, Semiconductors, and Sports Physical Therapy.
Project showcase:
Demo reel:
Launch date:
- Phase 1: September 2024
- Phase 2: October 2025
Creators:
- Amanda Federico, Project Manager
Phase 1:
- Dane Cavanaugh Toft, Technical Artist and Developer
- Donovan Harp, Game Designer and Developer
- Euny Chun, UI/UX Designer
- Ian Fletcher Pinilla, Developer
- Liam Wirth, Developer
- Maelyn Ortiz, Technical Artist
- Ryan Carpenter, Game Designer and Developer
- Sahil Hadke, Developer
- Savannah Zuniga, Concept Artist
- Shelby Cavanaugh Toft, Technical and Story Artist
- Spencer Erickson, Developer
Phase 2:
- Adar Rosen, UI/UX Designer
- Ananya Basarkar, Developer
- Annie Cheng, UI/UX and Game Designer
- Divyanshu Parikh, Developer
- Jose Sanchez, Developer
- Shelby Cavanaugh-Toft, Technical Artist
- Joey Orta, Technical Artist