Ergo Sum

"Ergo Sum" is an interactive experience that creates a virtual identity through the user's choices in a dreamlike environment. The piece challenges anthropocentrism and encourages exploration and reflection on the choices that shape identity. Decisions directly influence the path of self-discovery, highlighting the fluidity of personality. In the end, the user contemplates the outcome of their actions, bidding farewell to the blob that temporarily inhabited the body during their adventure.

Trailer

Moodboard

Drawing on theoretical concepts from Maslow's hierarchy of human needs, the project reflects on the idea of personality being entirely shaped by experiences and more or less voluntary choices. "Ergo Sum" is the result of merging the popular concept of liminal spaces and the creation of 3D models, audio, graphic inserts, and internal programming systems within the settings. Triggers and events are activated by the player interacting with the environment through a virtual reality headset and controller. At the end of the path composed of small puzzles, personal taste choices, or random events, the player's avatar blob-like appearance is revealed. Its characteristics have been gradually compiled using the Niagara Fluids System plugin. Thanks to feedback from the public in two different occasions, gameplay dynamics have been refined, providing a solid foundation for the development team, which hopefully plans to create three additional levels in the near future.