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Beings

Beings building the experience of becoming nonhuman through bodily gameplay

Visitor play the game — © Frankie Pike

Beings is an experimental digital game that immerses players in the perspectives of nonhuman species. The visuals are tuned to reflect how different species perceive the world. Instead of traditional controls, Beings uses body-tracking technology, allowing players to control their avatars.

Game Storyline: The Mystery of Wu-Vo

'Beings' is set on the fictional planet Wu-Vo, a meticulously designed artificial planet created as a secondary habitat for humanity.

Wu-Vo replicates Earth's diverse ecosystems and even revives extinct species, but it was abandoned after a series of mysterious disappearances among those working on the planet. A hypothesis emerged that those who vanished may have transformed into new life forms on Wu-Vo. Despite the mystery, no one has dared to come—until the ‘you', the player, decides to uncover the truth.

In 'Beings', players explore Wu-Vo, a planet ecologically similar to Earth, yet uniquely strange. The game’s core mechanic involves unexpected transformations, where players shift from one species to another at random moments. These changes are not just cosmetic; they require players to adapt to new abilities and perspectives that belong to each creature.

Gameplay Mechanics and Immersion

As players complete tasks, they gather fragments of memory related to Wu-Vo’s lost inhabitants, gradually uncovering the planet’s secrets. The game’s body-tracking feature enhances this experience, allowing players to use their physical movements to control the characters, making the transformations more immersive and engaging.

"Beings" is a speculative narrative that challenges players to reconsider their relationship with nonhuman life. By navigating the world through various species’ perspectives, the game dismantles the human-centred worldview and fosters empathy for all forms of life. Its unpredictable transformations and rich narrative create a unique, thought-provoking experience that prompts reflection on the interconnectedness of all beings.

Ultimately, "Beings" is not just a game but a commentary on the limitations of human perception. It invites players to step beyond their own experiences and engage with the world profoundly differently, making it a powerful tool for challenging anthropocentric thinking.

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About Lingxi Zhang, Xiao Zhang, Sravan Kairamkonda

Lingxi Zhang is an interactive/experience designer and digital artist. She uses design as a tool to amplify voices that are often overlooked or marginalized.

Sravan is a mid-level game programmer, specializing in Unity3D, Unreal Engine, and VR. He has experience in mobile, casino, and VR game development.

Elliot Zhang is a multidisciplinary designer focused on brand identity, motion design, and UI/UX, blending diverse media to create impactful design.

Visitor play the game — © Lingxi Zhang

Game cover image — © Lingxi Zhang

In game screenshot — © Lingxi Zhang

Game Memory Board Design — © Xiao Zhang

Strijp-S area, Klokgebouw | Hall 3, Klokgebouw 50 , Map No. B2
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