The idea of unlocking achievements or trophies each time a player performs a special act has been a wildly successful concept in video games on the Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3. Now beer company Molson Canadian is launching their own system, one that will reward virtual badges across social networks for participants who perform key summer activities such as taking a road trip, performing a cannon ball, or spotting wildlife.

The list of activities is featured in a new mobile app called "Seize The Summer". The free download is available today for BlackBerry and Android smartphones with an iPhone version soon to follow.

To unlock a badge you're required to submit "proof" which can be different from badge to badge. To claim the Urban Wildlife badge you'll need to submit a phot for each of a number of animals including a raccoon, squirrel, pigeon, duck, etc. To earn the Sailing badge you'll need to submit both a photo and a friend on Facebook who can verify the deed. Other types of proof include geotags to show you've visited specific locations.

Are there any badges for drinking beer? One, for preparing "Beer Can Chicken" at a CFL game.  

Each unlocked badge will be displayed on the user's Facebook profile. Those without a smartphone can also play along through their Facebook account using the app located here. The whole campaign is part of a summer contest, on August 26th Molson will be selecting from amongst those who collect the most badges to reward a number of real world prizes including trips, special events, and cash prizes. You can see the software in action on YouTube here.

Badges on Android

On BlackBerry

On iPhone