Punchdrunk is preparing to launch a new space-themed immersive experience called Lander 23, described as a live action video game.
The production is set around the Lander Division of the Centre for Astrobiology, which explores the outer realms of the galaxy.
According to the Punchdrunk website, “no division goes further or deeper into the unknown”.
The division is tasked with “discovering unchartered territories, exploring the outermost reaches and bringing back valuable data to the mothership”, the website says.
However, after the crew of Lander 23 vanished while harvesting a new energy source, guests will get to serve as a new crew.
“Your mission is clear – continue their job without the same happening to you,” Punchdrunk says.
“Time is not on your side. The environment is treacherous. There are hidden dangers lurking in the shadows. Do not deviate from the mission.”
Punchdrunk’s new multiplayer game
Lander 23 is a multiplayer game that splits teams of four into two squads – drivers and fields. As the fields navigate an alien landscape, they will rely on the guidance of the drivers, who are stationed aboard the ship.
Artistic director at Punchdrunk, Felix Barrett, told The Standard: “I was really keen to try and make something that would be the dream show for my inner 12 year old.
“Where you bring a video game into the real world and make people feel like they are their own avatar.”
He added, “The idea of being on board a ship that’s plummeting towards a planet, knowing that you’re then going to immediately have to disembark and go straight into the melee, feels like the most intense hit of adrenaline that anyone would want.
“There’s nothing like a space adventure.”
Taking place at Punchdrunk’s permanent site in Woolwich, Lander 23 is previewing from 17 September.
Images courtesy of Punchdrunk
