*theBlu* is an interactive screensaver that lets you explore the oceans and
contribute to preserving the oceans and its inhabitants. Although theBlu is a
screensaver, you can still *launch it as an app* if you don't want to wait
for the screensaver to activate. The app greats you with soothing music and
an ocean expanse. You can create an account with theBlu or you can use
*Facebook Connect* to log in. Once you do, you have the option to *purchase
more fish and habitats*. You also have the option to take snapshots and share
your discoveries with your friends. Much of your time in theBlu will be spent
wandering aimlessly, looking for new fish and plants to learn about. theBlu
keeps track of the plants and animals you find in a log book, which is like
an achievement of sorts. While there are actually *no objectives* in theBlu,
the world is so immersive that users won't really require an objective. The
free version of theBlu comes with a limited amount of fish and habitats that
you can unlock. The full version will include *exclusive habitats and fish*.
theBlu uses a credit system so you can purchase credits with real money.
Don't worry though, your money will be well spent as *part of the profits go
to organizations for oceanic conservation*. There is no other way to gain
more credits other than purchasing them. While theBlu is entertaining for the
most part, it could use with some more interactive media like audio and video
information about the fish. It's nice to see the ocean and fish rendered in
3D but it's not the same as watching a video of what things look like in real
life. If you want to model items in the app, you can join theBlu's
*development community* on their site. *Overall, theBlu is an innovative
screensaver and application that helps raise awareness for ocean
preservation.*Download *theBlu beta 1.4.9* in Softonic