'Periphery Synthetic' is a Dreamy Journey Through Space
Colin Smith — August 23, 2024 — Tech
References: periphery-synthetic-ep.shiftbacktick.io & theverge
Periphery Synthetic, developed by shiftBacktick, is an interactive experience that combines elements of a metroidvania game with a musical exploration theme. The game allows players to explore a procedurally-generated planetary system, synthesize new abilities, and uncover the past of the system. The gameplay is designed to be non-violent and relaxing, providing a chill experience across various musical playgrounds. The game is set in the Alpha Periphery system, which includes a desert planet, an ocean world, and an icy moon, each functioning as tracks of an EP composed of synthesized music and sounds that evolve and react to player input in real-time.
One of the notable features of Periphery Synthetic is its accessibility. The game is fully playable without visual input, utilizing echolocation and terrain sonification to navigate its worlds. Players can use their favorite screen reader to access menus and additional information while in-game, and the graphics can be toggled off to enjoy the experience with audio alone. This makes the game accessible to a wider audience, including those with visual impairments. Additionally, the game emphasizes exploration and experimentation, with no combat or risk of death, allowing players to freely explore and interact with the environment.
Image Credit: shiftBacktick
One of the notable features of Periphery Synthetic is its accessibility. The game is fully playable without visual input, utilizing echolocation and terrain sonification to navigate its worlds. Players can use their favorite screen reader to access menus and additional information while in-game, and the graphics can be toggled off to enjoy the experience with audio alone. This makes the game accessible to a wider audience, including those with visual impairments. Additionally, the game emphasizes exploration and experimentation, with no combat or risk of death, allowing players to freely explore and interact with the environment.
Image Credit: shiftBacktick
Trend Themes
1. Audio-guided Navigation - The integration of echolocation and terrain sonification for navigation offers a fresh paradigm in gaming, facilitating new ways for players to immerse themselves in game worlds.
2. Procedurally-generated Content - Procedurally-generated planetary systems present a dynamic and ever-changing landscape, pushing the boundaries of unique and replayable game environments.
3. Non-violent Gameplay - The shift towards non-violent, exploration-based gameplay highlights an emerging preference for more relaxed and stress-free gaming experiences.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - The gaming industry stands to benefit from innovations in non-violent, procedurally-generated, and audio-guided experiences, catering to broader and more diverse player demographics.
2. Assistive Technology - Developments in echolocation and screen reader compatibility underscore the potential for growth in assistive technologies, enhancing accessibility for visually impaired users.
3. Music and Sound Design - The fusion of interactive music and ambient soundscapes within gaming suggests new directions for audio industry professionals in creating immersive, reactive auditory experiences.
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