Three of five stars.
Whether or not you've written it down or recorded it on a computer, everyone has a bucket list -- that ever growing record of things you want, need and must do before you, ya know, kick the bucket.
This free app for iPhone called Achvr puts that list into digital form and rewards you points for achieving your goals.
When you download the app, you start an account with your email address or connect through Facebook. I recommend connecting through Facebook because it'll automatically link you to all of your friends, letting you know your common goals and achievements.
After creating an account, you begin scrolling through the seemingly endless list of experiences that include everything from trying sushi to visiting France. Each experience is listed with a photograph and the option to add the item to your list or check the item, indicating you've already achieved that experience.
ADVERTISEMENT
Each experience is assigned a certain point value and category. For example, "complete a 5k race" is 10 points in health and wellness, while "travel to Croatia" is 25 points in travel, and "climb Mount Everest" is 1,000 points in sports.
You're rewarded the points after achieving the experience, and you'll receive badges and titles based on your cumulated points. The point system makes achieving your goals a game, where you can compete with friends to see who's the most adventurous.
When you tire of flipping through the list, which includes watching "The Lion King" and cooking steamed vegetables, click the menu button on the top left corner. This will allow you to search for specific items or view items by category.
The best part of the app is the nearby discover option, which displays a map of green check points marking experiences nearby. This is great if you're looking for something new to do in the area.
Unfortunately, there's very limited experiences listed for North Dakota, which leads me to the major downfall of this app. You can't add your own items and experiences, like "write a song with your dad" or "start your own publication."
There's a description box with each experience, but as far as I can tell they're all empty and there's no way to add your own text. There's also no way to edit the date you've achieved an experience.
If you're willing to work through the little quirks, Achvr is a fun way to track your goals. But, I wouldn't completely replace your bucket list -- this app needs some work.
Maki covers arts and entertainment and life and style. Call her at (701) 780-1122, (800) 477-6572 ext. 1122 or send email to jmaki@gfherald.com .
