NOM NOM, CATCH CATCH: Digital Self-play
Enquiry: The project addresses the physical embodiment of reward-driven behaviour in digital spaces. It prompts the audience to question the extent to which we shape our behaviour to conform to the mechanisms of digital platforms. The goal is to create an engaging experience that brings a dash of humour and irony while creating space for reflection.
At this stage, the project contains two interconnected face and body recognition-based games: NOM NOM: Eat the points! & CATCH CATCH: Get the likes! Each game addresses the topic by creating different mechanics of rewards-driven actions.
In both games, the player is asked to use their body movement to perform simple actions in front of their camera to collect points while their time is running out. As the game progresses the game elements increase in intensity and speed, triggering the player to intensify the effort, resulting in almost absurd and funny movements. The player’s activity is then rewarded by two downloadable visual outcomes reflecting their performance: a moving gif and a gallery of pictures. Aside from a good laugh at how silly we look, the activity prompts a question: Did you play the game or did the game play you?
The integration of a real-time camera enhances the individualised experience of the game, allowing players to engage with their physical movements in a digital context. This feature encourages active participation, contributing to a more meaningful and personalised experience. The simple, playful mechanics invite the player to enter the experience without any expectations or burdens, to allow a space for free interpretation and reflection when receiving the visual performance at the end.
Game Elements:
Game mechanics and user behaviour: Reflection of the concept of performing actions in the digital space. As the game progresses, players are required to perform more, mirroring how individuals engage with digital spaces. Eating reflects consuming, catching collecting.
Face and body recognition: Enhances immersion by integrating real-world features into the digital realm, creating a more individualized and engaging experience.
Snapshot gallery: The gallery prompts players to reflect on their actions and interactions within the game, fostering critical thinking about their online behaviour and the influence of digital spaces while creating collective performance.