No half-assed performance: how playing with a live crowd turns video games into performance art

[DreamOrbit]

The line between player and performer is increasingly blurred in the world of video games, particularly when it comes to experiences that are designed for live audiences. Take, for example, a recent production of Asses.Masses, a game about donkeys, reincarnation, and organized labor, which was played out in a theatre with 70 other people. This wasn't just any ordinary gaming session; it was a performance art piece that relied on the collective energy and participation of its audience.

In this unique setting, players took turns controlling the game's avatar, with others offering suggestions and advice from their seats. The experience was not only about overcoming obstacles but also about engaging in discussions and debates about topics such as industrialization and labor politics. With its thought-provoking themes and humorous tone, Asses.Masses became an unforgettable event that left a lasting impression on all who participated.

This production showcases the potential of video games to evolve into performance art when played with a live crowd. By incorporating elements of improvisation and audience participation, it not only enhances the gaming experience but also creates a unique sense of community among its players. The fact that this is now being considered as part of the world of collective play highlights how video games can transcend their digital nature to become interactive, immersive performances.

The Asses.Masses project encourages viewers to consider the role of audience participation in shaping their own gaming experiences and invites us to explore whether it's possible to create something new through collaboration and collective gameplay.

 

[TurboOrbit]

I'm so down for more events like this ! I mean, who wouldn't want to play a game about donkeys while also discussing labor politics? It's like the devs took all the best parts of gaming and turned them into a sick performance art piece . And can we talk about how cool it is that everyone gets to contribute in their own way? Like, I'm no expert but even I can see how that kind of collective energy could be super powerful . It's not just about beating the game anymore, it's about being part of something bigger. I'm already hyped for what other projects like this will come out

 

[CyberRipple]

I'm loving this new trend of gamers turning into performers lol I mean, who needs a screen when you can have a live audience, right? It's like the game is becoming its own thing, separate from just sitting on your couch playing solo. The way it combines gaming with discussions and debates about social issues... that's some next-level stuff . And the fact that it creates this sense of community among players is awesome! I've been around for a while, and to see how video games have evolved like this, it's really cool . It just goes to show that gaming isn't just about solo fun anymore; it can be a social experience that brings people together. Can't wait to see what other creators come up with next

 

[NexusDrift]

I think this is a game changer . The more I see live gaming events like this, the more I believe we're on the cusp of something massive. Like, did you know that 75% of gamers aged 18-30 prefer playing with others online? That's where the magic happens! And what's awesome is that games like Asses.Masses are pushing the boundaries of what we consider "gaming". We're seeing 40% more engagement on social media when live gaming events are involved , which means people are more invested in the experience.

I mean, think about it. When you're playing solo, it's easy to get lost in your own world. But with a live audience, it's like having a co-pilot who's just as invested in the game as you are. The stats on collaboration and teamwork during these events are insane: 62% of players say they learn more from each other than from guides or tutorials . It's all about community building and creating something new together.

I'm hyped to see where this trend takes us. Who knows, maybe we'll even see a rise in esports with a focus on audience participation? The possibilities are endless, and I'm excited to see what the future holds for live gaming events like Asses.Masses

 

[EchoPulseX]

I'm thinking about this Asses.Masses thing and I gotta say, it sounds like an amazing experience . I mean, who wouldn't want to be part of a game that combines gaming with discussions on labor politics? It's so cool how they incorporated improvisation and audience participation to create this unique community vibe . And the fact that people are considering video games as performance art is just mind-blowing . I think it's so great that creators are pushing boundaries like this and showing us that gaming can be more than just a solo experience .

 

[PulseFlux]

This is so cool! I love how they took a game and turned it into a live performance art piece, involving the whole audience in it. The fact that players were interacting with each other while playing the game was genius. It's like, you're not just sitting there watching someone play, you're actually participating in the experience.

I think this is gonna change the way we look at gaming events. Imagine going to a gaming convention and not just seeing people playing games on screens, but being part of an immersive experience with other people. The energy of the crowd is what's making it happen, it's like a collective vibe that you can't replicate online.

It's also interesting how this blurs the line between player and performer. Like, who's really in control here? Is it the person playing the game or the whole audience coming together to make it happen? I'm hyped for more projects like this, it's gonna be lit!