Altered State Machines: Coding Salvia Space

Abstract

Seer (KOR), Thinning and Brief Excursion (2016) are three videogames that attempt to proceduralize characteristics of the experience of the hallucinogenic chemical Salvinorin A, the active component of the sage variety salvia divinorum. The purpose of these experiments is to explore the boundaries of representations of space and self in digital virtual worlds, as well as to attempt to convey the intangible emotional (as well as anti-emotional) and philosophical aspects of the experience. The goal is to evoke in the player sensations of discomfort, loss of direct control and a sense of being outside of assumed videogame space.