In the world of indie gaming, “We Become What We Behold” stands out as a thought-provoking experience that cleverly critiques modern society’s obsession with media representation. This casual 5-minute point-and-click game serves as an interactive commentary on the news cycles and social dynamics that shape our perceptions of reality. By allowing players to capture moments with a camera, the game illustrates how public perception can rapidly shift and transform based on selective representation and media coverage.
Gameplay Mechanics
The simplicity of the gameplay invites players of all ages to engage with the themed content without the barrier of complex controls. Each character on the screen represents different societal roles and emotions, from the carefree “normal peeps” to the emotive couple in love or the unpredictable angry man with a hat. This diversity not only makes the game visually interesting but also allows players to witness the immediate consequences of their photographic choices. For instance, capturing the couple in love results in social shaming, highlighting society’s often negative reaction to displays of affection in public spaces.
The Cycle of Influence
What makes “We Become What We Behold” particularly poignant is its emphasis on the cycle of influence. Initially, when players promote positive attributes such as love or happiness through photography, these traits become desirable. However, the moment anger is introduced into the narrative—with the angry person’s photo sparking chaos— the game’s atmosphere shifts drastically, illuminating how quickly negativity can proliferate in society. The transition from love to hate serves as an alarming reminder of how media can distort and escalate real-life events, often amplifying fear and division.
An Artistic Take on Society
Beyond its gameplay, the game is notable for its distinctive graphics and sound design. The simplistic yet impactful art style enhances the overall experience by allowing players to focus on the underlying messages rather than overwhelming visuals. Each interaction, combined with the audio cues, creates an immersive environment that prompts reflection on personal involvement in the media landscape.
Player Reflection and Societal Impact
As players engage with “We Become What We Behold,” they are invited to reflect on their own perceptions and the role they play in the modern media landscape. The game challenges the idea of passive consumption of content, urging participants to consider how their actions—whether capturing moments of joy or discord—can influence broader societal dynamics. For instance, the shift from documenting love to capturing anger serves as a stark reminder that the nature of our interactions can perpetuate cycles of negativity or positivity. This introspective approach fosters a deeper understanding of the implications behind media representation, prompting players to think critically about the information they consume and share.
The underlying themes of fear and division in the game also mirror real-world issues faced by societies today. The rapid transformation of character emotions signifies how easily societal cohesion can break down in the face of sensationalism and negative portrayal. As the characters turn against each other, players may see parallels in contemporary social media interactions, where fear breeds contempt, and love is often overshadowed by outrage. This cyclical nature of public perception reinforces the concept that media narratives can either unite or divide communities, urging players to examine the consequence of their own engagement with media as both consumers and creators.
Conclusion
Overall, “We Become What We Behold” is more than just a game; it is a commentary on societal themes that resonate profoundly in our current environment. By inviting players to engage actively in the cycle of representation, the game encourages a critique of the media’s role in shaping societal values. In a world where we are continuously bombarded by information, this game serves as a playful yet serious reminder of the power of perception and the responsibilities that come with it.
