ARGs - what do you think?

[Simon Meek]

Hey, I thought I'd ask the question simply... what do 38 Minute members think of ARGs? I'm not going to reveal my position as it will skew the response.

[Darryl Collins]

I have trouble enough with reality I don't need the alternatives!

[Eoin Cleland]

I like the idea of ARGs, but the reality has to be that any one aspect of the experience has to stand alone. I'm sure most people here know how hard it is to create a video, piece of writing or game that is entertaining. Tying that that an overall narrative, where each segement enhances the other without requiring total knowledge is tricky.

IMHO, any multimedia event is best handled with a strong key element, like a book, TV show or film, that stands alone. Then any alternate reality gubins should piggyback on that and enhance the experience for that. JJ Abrams did a great job with Lost and Cloverfield.

Some would argue that those aren't ARGs, but I reckon the definition is so loose and the medium so wide that they should count. But now I'm just rambling.

Eoin

[Matt Johnston]

I'm inspired by ARGs. So much so that going back to University to do a Masters in the subject is definitely on my personal agenda.

I may have also borrowed "The Game" (the one from 1997 with Michael Douglas)

[Michael Coulter]

Ewan,

I love the idea of ARG's, notwithstanding the ILB's success, I think it's a concept still very much in it's infancy. (Although I'm going to contradict myself, as usual, in about 30 words time.)

Obviously the gps tools and Location Based Services via iPhone and Android etc will open up more possibilities.

But conversely, what about: 'TNNUTS' ('There's Nothing New Under The Sun' technologies?)

I'm thinking of: "You are Chalky White and I claim my £5 pounds."

In the 1930's a bloke used to walk around UK seaside resorts carrying the Daily Mail.

If you spotted him and challenged him with the above statement, he gave you money.



pip, pip,

Mike