This Is Not a Knob
The description for this project is that it should explore the integration of the physical environment with the media environment. I was tasked with creating a tangible interaction where the audience manipulates a single knob and observes a corresponding video display or listens to corresponding audio.
GO FISH! from Dustin York on Vimeo.
My project employs video, and my first endeavor when thinking about this project was to find some interaction where the presence of the knob itself is not noticeable when combined with a familiar object and its pre-accepted action. From there, I wanted to play off of and modify what that pre-learned behavior would produce. A fishing reel, for me, was the perfect solution.
I created a game involving hooking my fellow MDP studio mates with a rod and reel because it was an ideal way for me to blend a physical action with what one sees onscreen in a playful, humorous way. The video simply loops if left on it’s own, but by using the reel it allows the user to hook who they see onscreen. It’s basic appeal is as a game because the user has to reel the correct amount in order to be able to reel in their catch; if they reel too hard the line snaps, and if they reel too little the prey is able to break free on their own accord. Only through practice, trial-and-error, and maybe a little luck can the player bring in the big one! There is even a fish counter in the corner of the screen, letting the user know how many prize catches they have earned.
Credit must be given to Professor Phil van Allen and Zhengxin Xi for their generous help and collaboration on the Actionscript coding. Also, many thanks to the stars of my project and excellent fish impersonators: Austin Lee, Hoon Oh and Zhengxin Xi.