In recent years, one of the most noticeable trends in fitness apps has been the gamification of workouts. It's a clever approach, especially since many of us find traditional exercising less than exciting. Enter Run the Realm, a newly re-released fantasy-themed fitness app available on Google Play and the iOS App Store, designed to inject excitement into your morning jog or workout routine by transporting you into a fantasy world.
In Run the Realm, you embody a survivor of an otherworldly attack, navigating your way through the aftermath as a knight, mage, or thief. Your fitness activities—whether jogging, running, or cycling—serve as your means to level up your character and progress through the story. The narrative unfolds in a world where your home city has been destroyed, and with only a disgraced knight by your side, your primary strategy is to keep moving.
As you engage in these physical activities, you'll earn points that can be used to enhance your chosen character's abilities. The app also features a unique "bardic radio" and narrative segments that play between your music playlist, enriching your workout experience. However, one aspect that might detract from the overall appeal is the use of AI-generated art, which can appear somewhat muddy upon closer inspection.
While the visual elements may not be the app's strongest feature, the core purpose of Run the Realm remains clear: to provide an engaging story while helping you achieve your fitness goals. If it succeeds in these areas, it fulfills its primary function admirably.
For those interested in exploring more innovative fitness and gaming apps, be sure to check out our weekly feature on the top five new mobile games to try.
