Embark on a Transformative Journey:  Mystika The Game Unveils a Groundbreaking Approach to Personal Development and Goal Setting in the Gaming World

Today, in a unique collaboration between OptimumEd and Anirudh Cheruvu, we proudly announce the release of Mystika, a revolutionary video game that transcends traditional gaming boundaries to empower players on a journey of personal growth and goal achievement.

In an era where video games are often associated with entertainment and escapism, Mystika takes a bold step forward by integrating elements of personal development and goal setting into the gaming experience. The game is not just about scoring points or conquering virtual worlds; it's a transformative adventure designed to inspire players to discover their potential and set and achieve meaningful life goals.

Mystika goes beyond the screen by providing players with tools and insights that can be applied to their real lives. From time management strategies to decision-making skills, the game equips players with practical knowledge that extends beyond the gaming realm.

Mystika represents a paradigm shift in the gaming industry. We believe that video games have the power to not only entertain but also elevate and inspire. With Mystika, we invite players to embark on a journey of self-discovery, personal growth, and goal achievement. It's a game that challenges the status quo and demonstrates that gaming can be a force for positive change in people's lives.



  • Thomas Leahy

    OptimumEd, Managing Partner

    om is the Managing Partner of OptimumEd, an international higher education consulting firm. Over the past 23 years, he has assisted dozens of families and students.

    He is a member of the Higher Education Consultants Association, the Virginia Association of Student Financial Aid Administrators and the International Association of Registered Financial Consultants.

    Tom published the fourth edition of his college planning book "Plan for college, prepare for life - The No-Nonsense Guide to Higher Education Planning.” He was published in the Richmond Times-Dispatch, featured in other local publications and on local television. As an expert on college admissions and financial aid, Tom has been featured on national radio and podcasts.

    Tom has delivered seminars for The Governor’s School for International Studies, Richmond Community High School for the Gifted and Talented, the Chesterfield County School System’s “Very Informed Parents’ Program” (VIP).

    A graduate of the University of Florida, Tom also earned his master’s degree from the University of Oklahoma. He is a retired military officer and a graduate of the Army’s Command and General Staff College and the Defense Information School.

    Tom sat on the board of the St. Francis Medical Center Community Advisory Board, the Virginia Treatment Center for Children’s Advisory Council and the Program Committee for the Children’s Mental Health Resource Center. He was the past president of the Midlothian Youth Soccer League for six years prior to architecting its merger with the Richmond Kickers in 2010. Tom held a previous board seat with the Three Springs Foundation, Huntsville, Alabama. He is currently a member of the Midlothian-Chesterfield Kiwanis Club and the president of Beacon Tree Foundation.

    Tom and his wife Diana live in Midlothian, VA. They have four children and four grandchildren.

  • Candice Suarez

    OptimumEd, Executive Director

    Candice’s unique blend of education and experience allows her to support teens through the process of learning about themselves through an in-depth career and academic assessment. She then guides them through the entire college planning process, from a thorough college search, developing a high school resume, supporting the essay-writing process and completing the application. OptimumEd addresses financial aid concerns as well.

    Originally from Pennsylvania, Candice received her education from Millersville University, earning both a Bachelors Degree in English Education and a Masters of Education Degree in School Counseling. She also earned a post-masters certificate in Applied Behavior Analysis from Penn State University and is a National Certified Counselor (NCC).

    Candice has devoted her career to the helping professions, working for nine years as a School Counselor at the elementary and middle school levels. She next transitioned her experience to the community setting working as a Mobile Therapist and Behavior Specialist, which eventually led to a position as the Director of Community and School Based Behavioral Health for a nonprofit mental health agency. This experience has allowed Candice to hone her skills in counseling and supervision while working closely with school administrators to support students and allow them to reach their full potential.

  • Anirudh Cheruvu

    Gamification Expert

    Vision-driven Game Designer whose passion for crafting enrapturing games leapt off design docs gaining increasing traction. Energized by captivating and thought-provoking game ideas, Anirudh designed 11 titles that are enjoyed by over 8 million players. He believes in making a decisive positive impact on the society through meaningful play. He is passionate about making a positive difference in society by harnessing the power of video games and wish to share his insights in gaming with those in need. To craft engaging and captivating games that leave strong post-play reminiscences while collaborating with talented professionals and keeping his designs in-tune with the industry trends. Fueled with design research and learning alacrity and having done his Master of Game Design after nine published titles to credit along with two working titles over eight years, he aspires to push the frontiers of his creative endeavor. Anirudh was a visiting faculty of DSK Gaming School, Pune and also taught an online course in Game Design with 1400+ registered students. His endeavor encompasses wide range of game genres with three original IPs. Two of his IPs under production, namely Eternal Vengeance, a 3d action-adventure beat em'up RPG and Celestial, an Edutaiment Simulation Strategy game of planetary colonization, received commendable media response and critical acclaim from gaming veterans and players alike. With digital craftsmanship, ability to lead, drive the game's vision and monetize, he brings forth his core competencies of crafting engaging titles that are captivating and impactful.