Laura Simpson conducted summer thesis research exploring memory reconstruction through narrative and time-based visuals. Her research domains included memory, narrative, interaction theory, and conversation. She developed a first-person narrative memory game called Lethe that uses visuospatial minigames like Tetris and puzzles to help trauma victims reconstruct memories, taking inspiration from a study showing Tetris can act as a "PTSD vaccine." The game tells the narrative through cutscenes in reverse order and has the player work backward through therapeutic minigames to fill in missing events.
A team response tot he task of "Change the Rules of The Game" in which we changed a rule, refined it, then changed a game mechanic. After several rounds of iterative testing, we concluded with adding a randomly assigned value and mechanic change to the game.
A team response tot he task of "Change the Rules of The Game" in which we changed a rule, refined it, then changed a game mechanic. After several rounds of iterative testing, we concluded with adding a randomly assigned value and mechanic change to the game.
As I have developed my thesis, I have run into the idea of fantasy. What does it mean to have the epic and the low?
How do I combine the drama of Cinderella's gown with a gentle look at materials and simple combinations? How do I amplify fantasy for reality?
As I have developed my thesis, I have run into the idea of fantasy. What does it mean to have the epic and the low?
How do I combine the drama of Cinderella's gown with a gentle look at materials and simple combinations? How do I amplify fantasy for reality?
2. Domains of Summer Research
Memory Reconstruction
of Narrative
Time Based
Visuals
Interaction Conversation
Theory
3. LETHE
A casual first-person narrative memory game, with visuospatial action minigames;
“It’s Tetris meets Memento”
Jess
Haskins
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Laura
Simpson
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Astra
Wijaya
4. LETHE
Inspira8on
o Oxford study, 2010: Tetris is effective as a “PTSD vaccine” following a traumatic
event
Concept
o The Lethe Institute, a therapeutic “play clinic” for trauma victims
o You are a patient reflecting back on your time there; narrative told through
cutscenes in reverse chronological order (Memento-style)
o Play “therapeutic” visuospatial minigames (Tetris, tangrams, sliding block puzzles)
o Play a visual memory game as you try to reconstruct missing events by working
backward