Cisco's myPlanNet simulation game touches on broadband growth and other hot communications topics

Like The Sims? Then you just might love myPlanNet, a new simulation computer game from Cisco Systems Inc. that transforms its players into service provider CEOs that have to make tough decisions – and have a chance to become superheroes by bringing broadband to the masses.

The game, Cisco’s “myPlanNet 1.0,” unveiled earlier this week as NTIA and RUS officials are in the midst of deciding who will get the first round of broadband stimulus funds, attempts to make broadband deployment easy to understand by putting you into the shoes of a communications CEO. Players start as wireline, mobile or cable providers. Then, they manage their businesses stone age of dial-up through the broadband- and mobile-connected eras, and into the dawning of the “medianet” age...