Lingxi Zhang
Lingxi Zhang is a London-based artist and designer who graduated from Goldsmiths, University of London, in 2024. Her work explores the intersection of art, design, and technology, pushing the boundaries of traditional design practices.
"Beings" is an experimental digital game that challenges players to explore the world through the perspectives of nonhuman species. Set on the fictional planet Wu-Vo, a meticulously designed artificial planet created as a secondary habitat for humanity, the game offers an immersive narrative that encourages players to rethink anthropocentric thinking.
Wu-Vo replicates Earth's diverse ecosystems and even revives extinct species, but it was abandoned after a series of mysterious disappearances among those working on the planet. A hypothesis emerged that those who vanished may have transformed into new life forms on Wu-Vo. Despite the mystery, no one has dared to come—until the ‘you', the player, driven by curiosity, decides to uncover the truth.
In "Beings," players explore Wu-Vo, a planet ecologically similar to Earth, yet uniquely strange. The game’s core mechanic involves unexpected transformations, where players shift from one species to another at random moments. These changes are not just cosmetic; they require players to adapt to new abilities and perspectives, each bringing them closer to solving the mystery of Wu-Vo.
As players complete tasks, they gather fragments of memory related to Wu-Vo’s lost inhabitants, gradually uncovering the planet’s secrets. The game’s body-tracking feature enhances this experience, allowing players to use their physical movements to control the characters, making the transformations more immersive and engaging.
"Beings" is a speculative narrative that challenges players to reconsider their relationship with nonhuman life. By navigating the world through various species’ perspectives, the game dismantles the human-centered worldview and fosters empathy for all forms of life. Its unpredictable transformations and rich narrative create a unique, thought-provoking experience that prompts reflection on the interconnectedness of all beings.
Ultimately, "Beings" is not just a game but a commentary on the limitations of human perception. It invites players to step beyond their own experiences and engage with the world in a profoundly different way, making it a powerful tool for challenging anthropocentric thinking.
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