SAN ANTONIO – In a remarkable fusion of creativity and dedication, Eric, a Texas-based YouTuber known for his channel Mogswamp, has devoted over 500 hours of gameplay and a year of meticulous planning to his latest project: a stunning recreation of the iconic Tower Life building in Minecraft. “I’m always trying to one-up myself and go bigger and bigger and basically just share my creativity with people at the end of the day,” Eric shared, reflecting on his artistic journey.
Residing in Austin, Eric frequently visits San Antonio, where he gradually became enamored with the distinctive brown and green structure that punctuates the city’s skyline as the fifth tallest building in the area. “Right away, I just fell in love with the building. You can see it from so far away. Anywhere you’re at in the city, you can see this building. For me, it was the green terracotta roof just poking out. I was just so intrigued by it,” he explained. His fascination deepened as he uncovered the building’s rich history, leading to what he describes as a “miniature obsession” that compelled him to recreate it in the virtual world.
To bring his vision to life, Eric immersed himself in research, analyzing drone footage of the tower, exploring its historical background, and studying blueprints and building materials from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). He also took his own photographs to ensure accuracy in his digital rendition. “I think it’s a good almost metaphor for anything in life. If you can just spend the time and really commit to it, you can accomplish really your wildest dreams,” he remarked, highlighting the dedication required for such an ambitious project.
Innovative Education through Gaming
At the San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology (SAMSAT), lead STEM educator Giselle De Leon recognizes the potential of engaging students through their interests. “We use a special kind of Minecraft called Minecraft Education, where it helps bridge the gap with other subjects as well,” De Leon noted. This innovative approach not only encompasses engineering but also extends to fields like chemistry and cybersecurity, making learning more accessible and enjoyable for students.
SAMSAT is currently offering summer camps that blend technology with education, featuring a dedicated week focused on Minecraft. “It is a brand-new kind of bridge that educators are now acknowledging that this is a way to close the gap for some students that otherwise maybe would have struggled in traditional academia,” De Leon added, emphasizing the transformative power of such educational tools.
Meanwhile, the Tower Life building itself is undergoing renovations, with plans to convert vacant office floors into apartment units. Despite the construction, the building continues to stand as a prominent feature of the San Antonio skyline, a testament to both its architectural significance and the creative endeavors it inspires.
