Games of Empire: The Micro-Nations
Emergent public alternate reality game exploring systemic colonial impulses and how far people will go to maintain control
The μN was an immersive experience I designed as an experimental roleplaying alternate reality game (what’s an ARG?) inspired by the false occupation of “North Sudan,” and the numerous uninhabited islands in the waterways around New York City. Players were invited to establish sovereign rule over an island nation and defend their right to maintain power and control despite claims challenging their power.
Beginning as an in-person experience in our headquarters on Governor’s Island, we registered each player and took portraits of them. The game then continued virtually via email, where the rulers continued to defend their territory or battle to oust other leaders and take over new islands.
a new leader establishing soverign rule
Map of all uninhabited micronations around new york city
Photo montage made by designer, Gabe Smedresman. Check out more of his work here.
The look and feel of the island brochure given to each new potential sovereign leader.
Where and when: This game was developed during the 2014 LMCC Open Studios at Governor’s Island, NYC.
Collaborators: Kaho Abe, Ida Benedetto and Ramsey Nasser (collectively called “Suspiciotude”)