If colossally boring performance art that leaves you with a vague sense of being trolled is your bag, then have I got the video game for you. Marina Abramovicâstar of 2011âs The Artist is Presentâreturns in another low-res homage to her work. Just remember to keep that shift key pressed.
Well, if you thought that was compelling, now comes Barrâs Digital Marina Abramovic Institute, which is part of the artistâs campaign to open a real-life institute for her type of art. That recently raised more than $600,000 on Kickstarter, and if you backed the project you get a code that allows you to play the âcompatibility racer,â accessed by entering the institute and walking left.
As you probably do not have the code, the fun begins when you pick up a set of headphones and go right of the desk. Then you go into some âexercise chambers,â which require you to sign a contract promising you wonât leave early. Trust me, there are consequences for not playing with total commitment.
I made it through one room before quitting. The first was an an âorientation roomâ that was nothing but a long set of instructions. The second room instructed me to walk, in slow-motion, to the right. I couldnât leave the room until I was instructed. I tried it twice, going too fast both timesâand even encountering input lag, for godâs sake. You must keep the shift key depressed to demonstrate that you are awake and actively participatingâso this is how this damn thing commands your undivided attention. If you abandon the screen or leave the shift key unpressed for two or three seconds, you âfall asleepâ for an hour.
Is this fun? Hell no. Is there some kind of enriching experience awaiting those who subdue their urges for instant gratification in interactive entertainment? I have no idea. Iâm sure at least one of you achievement hounds will make it through and get your certificate and write about your experience.
