WOW Pod is an immersive architectural solution for
the advanced WOW (World of Warcraft) player that
provides and anticipates all life needs. Inside, the
player finds him/herself comfortably seated in front
of the computer screen with easy-to-reach water,
pre-packaged food, and a toilet conveniently placed
underneath a built-in throne.
When hungry, the player selects a food item and
scans it in. WOW Pod then physically adjusts a hot
plate to cook the item for the correct amount of time
and temperature. The virtual character then jubilantly
announces the status of the meal to both the
player and the other individuals playing online.
When the food is ready, the system automatically
puts the character in AFK (‘Away From Keyboard’)
mode to provide both player and avatar a moment
to eat. When the player resumes playing, he/she
might just discover his/her character’s behavior is
affected by the food consumed in real life — sluggish
from overeating or alternately exuberant and
energetic.
(cont'd below)
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above: WOW Pod at Eyebeam Atelier, New York (March 6-7, 2009).
The exterior of WOW Pod mimics
the look of WOW architectural structures, whose swaths of
flat, pixellated surfaces digitally recreate the built environment
of an imagined past. Upon crossing the threshold and entering
WOW Pod, the player finds a tangible simulation of things
digital.
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Signage inside WOW Pod reads:
"GREETINGS, WARRIOR!
Sit down, relax, and settle into World
of Warcraft. As you and your avatar are exploring the vast
landscapes, you may find yourself getting hungry or fatigued.
Fear not, Warrior — the WoW Pod provides all things
to sustain your health.
Thirsty? Quench your thirst with refreshing spring water located in the
leather bag to your right.
Hungry? Grab a packet of food located on the wall to your right. Pass the
package directly under the red light. Pour the contents of the pouch into
the pot on the stovetop along with 1.5 cups of refreshing spring water.
The WoW Pod will control the temperature and time needed to cook your meal.
Cooking time varies according to the meal you’ve selected. Your avatar
will alert you when your meal is ready and immediately place your computer
into AFK (‘Away From Keyboard’) mode. Take this time to nourish
yourself — many more challenges await you.
Need to use the restroom? Flip the seat of your throne and discover the
necessary facilities.
STRENGTH & HONOR!" |
| Support for WOW Pod provided by The Council for the Arts at
MIT, Friends of the MIT Museum, School of Humanities, Arts,
and Social Sciences De Florez Humor Fund, Tangible Media
Group at the MIT Media Lab, and Eyebeam Atelier. |
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