2024 | Visualization Research Centre, HKBU
Section 1: Project Overview
Looped Play involved three artist teams in prototyping multiplayer collaborative games for the 360-degree visualization system. Centred on the theme of the cylindrical structure, the games examined loops, anamorphosis, and group interaction, exploring the dynamics of play in this immersive audiovisual environment. Playtests with 220 children and adults were conducted, with observations and feedback gathered through informal observation and cross-sectional surveys. The games employed various control configurations, from single to multi-player interaction, challenging players' spatial perceptions by encouraging movement throughout the space rather than focusing on a 'front' or 'back.'
Section 2: Technical Narrative
The interaction paradigm of this media art project operates in three distinct modes. The first mode, “Ping”, introduces players to the 360-degree environment as a game space using a single digital joystick, promoting self-organized participation. The second mode, “The Waiting Game”, utilizes a wireless Bluetooth controller for all players, facilitating both individual and collaborative play, encouraging positive social interactions. The third mode, “Mario Tag”, involves two controllers with a 'birthday party' mechanic, where players decide when to switch turns, encouraging negotiation and sharing. This mode uses replicas of Super Nintendo controllers, adding a nostalgic element within the modern immersive environment.
第一部分:項目概述
邀請三組藝術家團隊為 360 度視覺系統原型開發多玩家合作遊戲。以圓柱結構為主題,遊戲探討了循環、變形透視和群體互動,並在這個沉浸式的視聽環境中探索了遊戲動態。進行了 220 位兒童和成人的遊戲測試,透過非正式觀察和橫斷式調查收集了觀察結果和反饋。遊戲設置了不同的控制配置,從單人到多人互動,通過鼓勵玩家在空間中移動,挑戰他們的空間感知,而不局限於「前」或「後」的方向。
第二部分:技術敘述
這個媒體藝術項目的互動模式分為三種。第一種模式「Ping」透過單一數位操縱桿將玩家引入 360 度的遊戲空間,促進自發性的參與。第二種模式「等待遊戲」採用無線藍牙控制器,允許所有玩家進行個人或協作遊戲,並鼓勵積極的社交互動。第三種模式「馬里奧標記」使用兩個控制器並設置「生日派對」機制,讓玩家自行決定換手時機,鼓勵協商和共享。這種模式使用了超級任天堂控制器的復刻版,在現代的沉浸式環境中增添了懷舊元素。
Leads: Peter A C NELSON
Collaborator: ---
Partner: ---
Date: 2024
Team: Yang Jing (Production), ‘Ping’ by Patrick LeMieux, Stephanie Boluk & Carlin Wing, ‘The Waiting Game’ by Optillusion Games, ‘Mario Tag’ by the Plunder Ludics Working Group
Hardware: nVis with 29.6 surround sound system, Customised digital joystick podium, Array of 8 Bluetooth controllers, Array of 2 gamepads
Software: Unity, JoyToKey
2024.02.23-05.23
(Totally 5 days, 1.5 hours per day)
Innovation and Technology Fund, HKSAR