Ordnance Survey took their actual topographical data as well as image data, but instead of putting them into a GIS program, they scaled it down and put it into Minecraft. They used different block materials to display different features (for example, the gold blocks are minor roads).
Minecraft players can even download the map and explore it. However, it’s a massive file.
I think this is exciting. I love the idea of combining real-world data and games. Could this be a way to get students interested in GIS? Essentially, Minecraft has been turned into a very basic GIS program.
Follow the link to find out more about how they did it. Use the article as an engaging reading extension for students interested in Minecraft and/or GIS..
via Minecrafting with OS OpenData | Innovate | Ordnance Survey.
Here is also a nice video from Ordnance Survey that explains GIS: