DIRECTIVE 8020

The space-horror game D8020 by Supermassive is a scary one! In connection with the release of the game, PlayStation Denmark asked us if we could create an event to showcase the game on our stage.

We developed a concept combining storytelling, complex technology, set building, and event production to bring professional gamer celebrities as close as possible to being inside the game.

The exterior doors open and the influencer enters a scanning room. On a display they are welcomed by the D8020’s command ship voice and their own credentials.
As a security measure they have to be scanned for infections. Custom controlled LED bars scan the gamer and a warning about possible infection appears on the monitor, directing the gamer to proceed to the command deck and perform a manual override.

We designed an interactive space console desk with a Touchscreen and UI graphics from the game. We also designed a custom LED strip controller and put LED strips into the desk which reacted to which chapter the gamer was in.

Initially, we sent out a brief to each gamer about the event, asking them for six pictures for their credential card and a voice recording about their expectations.

In reality, we used their pictures and voice recordings to create a real-time digital clone of each gamer. In the final part of the experience, a debrief of their game session takes place, and their digital clone seats itself in front of them.

While the ship’s voice asks the gamer questions, the clone moves its head and mimics the gamer. Suddenly, the clone becomes autonomous, starts answering the questions, and an infection begins to grow on its face. Now fully taken over by the infection, the clone states: “No need to worry. Stay there, I’ll come to you…” before leaving its chair and heading toward the gamer. Meanwhile, an extra walks determinedly across our stage rig to create the illusion that the clone is on its way. The ship shuts down into alarm mode, and naturally, most gamers got extremely scared and ran out. Experience over.