Cycles - Shawn Mitchell

VR Video Game
20:00

Cycles is a VR video game that utilizes philosophical game design to represent different aspects of the social anxiety cycle through the use of game narratives, mechanics, and aesthetics.

Cycles


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This VR video game reimagines the cycle of social anxiety that the author has undergone throughout his life, and incorporates key themes from his experience through the implementation of abstract symbolism and game mechanics. A personal and reflective piece, this game acts as a mirror of the developer’s own struggles and victories when dealing with mental health with the hopes that others can find something relatable within. By using philosophical game design, Cycles is a representation of different aspects of the social anxiety cycle as shown through the game’s mechanics, aesthetics, and narrative.

Level 1: Inside a cramped, cyberpunk room, reminiscent of Blade Runner

Level 1: Inside a cramped, cyberpunk room, reminiscent of Blade Runner

Level 2: Overlooking an ancient temple secluded in a jungle

Level 2: Overlooking an ancient temple secluded in a jungle

Level 3: Inside a living room that is filled with Christian iconography

Level 3: Inside a living room that is filled with Christian iconography

Level 4: Looking back in the cyberpunk room, it is now sunrise and light dances through the windows

Level 4: Looking back in the cyberpunk room, it is now sunrise and light dances through the windows

A glimpse at some of the nodal blueprinting that went into making the dialogue feature within the game

A glimpse at some of the nodal blueprinting that went into making the dialogue feature within the game

Level 2: A look inside of the ancient jungle temple

Level 2: A look inside of the ancient jungle temple