Semiomorph: rules of play

In the Semiomorph world typical modes of representation - text, data, iconographics, or simulated reality - coexist in the virtual space. Each mode is personified by a group of game characters competing for screentime. Both the objects and the space can be represented using any of the four modes of representation, either at a local or a global level. Semiotic morphism is used to generate the representation of the game space, and also as the basis of the gameplay.

Modes of representation. Semiomorph explores semiotic morphism in an immersive environment, using the visual language of video and computer games as the starting point for its sign system. This environment consists of a 3D space, game objects and characters, and the player. Each of these may be represented using one of four systems:
Word: text labels appear on spaces and game objects. Represented by the Mt.Ke,I-t character.
Diagram: spaces and game objects are represented in wireframe mode. Represented by the D-Glypha character.
Icon: simple stylized representation of space and game objects. Represented by the Specular character.
Simulation: spaces and objects are texture mapped and made more complex to increase realism. Represented by the Realamon character.

The game characters explore how each mode of representation has shifted simply by becoming digital. These game characters are archetypal artefacts, capturing aspects of digital media and electronic game language.

Game objects. The four main game objects have a different sound and style of rendering associated with each of the four modes of representation. Their functionality in the game is as follows:
Energy: increases the player score by 1 point. The four types of energy (word, diagram, icon, and simulation) change the representation of the player’s avatar – if the player has collected mostly “word energy” then the avatar is represented as word, and so on.
Power-up: makes the player invincible for a short period of time.
Blast: the player may fire blast icons in order to defend themselves against enemy characters. The game characters may also fire these at the player.
Muticon: these icons instantly transform the player’s avatar to one of the four modes of representation. The mode depends on the type of muticon (word, diagram, iconic, simulation).