In a world where digital realms often mirror our own reality, few games dare to transcend mere entertainment and venture into the realms of profound philosophical inquiry. “Everything,” developed by David OReilly, stands as a beacon in this regard, offering players not just a game but an introspective journey through the very essence of identity.
Released in 2017, “Everything” is not your typical video game. It defies conventional gaming norms by eschewing linear narratives and competitive gameplay mechanics in favor of a more abstract and contemplative experience. At its core, the game invites players to explore the interconnectedness of all things, from the smallest microorganisms to the vast expanse of the cosmos. But beneath its seemingly simplistic surface lies a rich tapestry of philosophical musings on the nature of existence, consciousness, and the self.
Identity, a concept deeply ingrained in human consciousness, serves as the thematic cornerstone of “Everything.” As players navigate through the game’s procedurally generated landscapes, they assume the role of various objects, organisms, and celestial bodies, seamlessly transitioning between different forms of life. This fluidity of identity challenges the traditional notion of a fixed and immutable self, prompting players to question what it truly means to “be” something.
In “Everything,” identity is not confined to individual entities but extends to the relationships and interactions between them. Players can merge with other beings, forming new composite entities that transcend the boundaries of individuality. This dissolution of selfhood mirrors philosophical concepts such as panpsychism and non-dualism, which propose that consciousness permeates all existence, blurring the distinction between the observer and the observed.
Moreover, “Everything” encourages players to adopt multiple perspectives, each offering a unique lens through which to perceive the world. Whether embodying a blade of grass swaying in the wind or a galaxy swirling in the depths of space, players gain insights into the interconnected web of life that binds all things together. This multiplicity of viewpoints fosters empathy and understanding, challenging players to transcend their egocentric outlook and embrace the inherent unity of existence.
At its most profound level, “Everything” invites players to confront the existential quandary of their own existence. Through introspective narration drawn from the writings of philosopher Alan Watts, the game poses philosophical riddles that probe the nature of self-awareness and the illusion of separateness. Players are prompted to contemplate their place in the universe, confronting the paradoxical nature of individuality in a world where everything is interconnected.
In essence, “Everything” serves as a digital allegory for the philosophical journey of self-discovery. By transcending the boundaries of conventional gameplay and delving into the depths of existential inquiry, the game challenges players to confront the fundamental questions of identity and existence. In a world increasingly dominated by superficial distractions, “Everything” stands as a testament to the transformative power of interactive art, inviting players to embark on a voyage of self-exploration unlike any other.
As players navigate the boundless expanse of “Everything,” they are reminded that in the grand tapestry of existence, every atom, every thought, and every experience is interconnected. In this cosmic dance of being, identity is not a fixed destination but a fluid journey of self-discovery, forever unfolding in the eternal now. And perhaps, in embracing the interconnectedness of all things, players may glimpse the profound truth that in the vastness of the cosmos, they are not separate from the universe but an integral part of its infinite majesty.