Staying in to play, by artist, writer and games designer John Paul Bichard, was at www.variablemedia.org from April 7th to July 6th 2003. This work explored the illusionary, immersive space that is first person digital game play.

Bichard developed a 3D video game environment during his 90 day on-line residency. Regular visitors witnessed the environment, structure and functionality of the game mutate and modify, towards an indeterminate end.

"I am interested in exploring the zone where consciousness is blurred and beliefs and values are suspended or subverted. The First Person digital game is particularly relevant in that it positions the player as prime effector, prime focus and target, eroding the distance between the real and fantasy. Key to this is the means by which players are empowered and develop influence through the uncovering of patterns and narratives, through encountering multiple 'death' or transformation experiences and how this affects implied identity and consequence within the game space."
John Paul Bichard 2003

Bichard will continue to develop the project at his own site.

For more information please read the press release.