Darkfield, an immersive theatre company, is set to launch its latest 360-degree audio experience, ‘Arcade’.
Arcade will be available from 12-24 March at the Lakeside Arts museum in Nottingham, and from 27 March through 7 April at the Guildhall music venue in Gloucester.
Darkfield is behind immersive experiences in shipping containers such as ‘Flight’, ‘Coma’, ‘Eulogy’ and ‘Séance’. Arcade is the fifth show by Darkfield to be delivered in complete darkness.
Set in the darkness of one of Darkfield’s trademark shipping containers, Arcade uses the 8-bit aesthetic of 1980s video games. It features an interactive narrative exploring the evolving relationship between players and avatars.
“We’re very excited to present our most ambitious show to date, Arcade. It’s been a long time in the making,” said Darkfield.
“We really hope our audience enjoys exploring the world they are immersed in, aware that there are many other paths through it they could have chosen.
“We’re looking forward to the conversations the audience will be having with each other afterwards, and hopefully seeing them return to discover new paths.”
Per a press release, during the 30-minute experience, guests can choose their own path through “a world ravaged by endless war”, guiding their avatars on individual arcade machines.
’80s video games inspire immersive show
Players can “choose a side, win or lose the war, search for a peaceful route, or join a cult promising a better version of reality”, said Darkfield.
“Players will address deep, existential questions about free will and consciousness, as they navigate a world where some will win and others will lose.”
The Arcade experience is recommended for guests over the age of 16 due to themes of violence, death and warfare, as well as strong language and sexual content.
Additionally, it may not be suitable for people with claustrophobia.
Images courtesy of Darkfield
