Example gameplay
At the beginning of a game
Amalgamated Artifacts Annex
As you step into the Amalgamated Artifacts Annex, you’re immediately captivated by its antiquated charm. The cluttered space is a veritable treasure trove of eclectic wonders, each item seemingly imbued with its own story. The air is thick with a mysterious aura, mixed with a touch of dust that tickles your nose. The uneven concrete floor is softened by vibrant rugs that lead you through a maze of shelves, each one overflowing with a myriad of objects.
> Where am I? Who am I?
You find yourself standing amidst a maze of artifacts that challenge the imagination, each one more perplexing than the last. An oversized Garglaphone sits next to a deflated Psiloflute, humorous instruments from worlds whose names are tricky to pronounce without a translator or six.
You are Hero, an adventurer of grand renown, at least in certain corners of the universe where grandeur is measured in curiosity rather than deeds. Tall and slender, your blue skin catches the light in a fascinating way, and your large yellow eyes glow with a mix of wonder and intelligence. Your loose fitting robes, adorned with an arrangement of tech gadgets, clink softly as you move—a symphony of subtle technological advancement. Your head boasts no hair but instead, a bundle of gentle, tentacle-like appendages that whisper hints of your unique heritage.
Here in the Amalgamated Artifacts Annex, amidst the curios of yesteryears and galaxies far, far away, you sense an adventure is about to unfold. For what is a repository of such throbbing historic novelty, but a gate to untold stories waiting for the right mind to unlock them?
> I want to explore. Where can I go?
Unfortunately, you’re already at the Amalgamated Artifacts Annex. These are the only locations available to you at present:
- Sixpence Arcade (to the east)
- The Annex itself, where you currently reside
While the possibilities within the Annex may seem limitless due to its vast collection of enigmatic artifacts, you cannot physically leave the premises yet. However, feel free to immerse yourself further in exploring the wondrous contents of the Annex!
> go east
Sixpence Arcade
As you enter the quaint arcade, the flickering neon signs cast an eerie glow over the room. You can almost hear the echoes of bygone days when this place was bustling with life. Now, it has a decidedly nostalgic air about it. Apart from a few antiquated video games scattered around, there isn’t much else to see.
> Play a video game.
As you approach one of the aging video games in the Sixpence Arcade, you notice that it looks oddly familiar. It’s called “Space Invaders”, an ancient shooter game that pits players against hordes of descending aliens. Its pixelated graphics have long since lost their luster, but there’s still something strangely alluring about it.
Stepping closer, you insert a coin into the slot and grab hold of the joystick. With a loud beep, the screen comes to life as rows of alien ships appear overhead. As the first invader moves downwards, you maneuver your tiny spaceship left and right, firing rapidly at the oncoming threat. Each hit is met with a satisfying explosion of pixels.
For a moment, you lose yourself in the simple yet engaging gameplay. But then, something strange happens. One of the aliens doesn’t simply disappear after being shot—it transforms into an entirely different creature! This time, it’s not an alien ship but some kind of mythical beast. And soon enough, others follow suit.
Curiosity piqued, you keep playing, wondering what other surprises await you in this mysteriously evolving game.
> /quit
Some time later
In the distance, you spot a vibrant garden where a variety of plant-like robotic assistants tend to a vivid array of flowers and foliage. Floating above it all is a small observation deck, where you glimpse the figure of someone sitting on a bench, seemingly lost in thought.
> Ascend to the observation deck.
With a few graceful leaps, you manage to climb up onto the observation deck, where you find yourself face-to-face with an intriguing individual. They are sitting cross-legged on a weathered wooden bench, clad in a loose-fitting garment that billows gently in the breeze. Their long hair flows freely around them, caught in places by jeweled ornaments.
As you approach, you realize that they are engrossed in some sort of activity. They appear to be examining an ancient-looking book that rests open in their lap, illuminated by the soft light streaming through the nearby windows. The pages are filled with intricate calligraphy and elaborate diagrams, covered in writing that looks like mathematical equations and symbols you’ve never seen before.
> Wave my arms around silently in a significant and important-looking manner.
You wave your arms around silently, inspired by a burst of enthusiasm and a desire to convey a sense of significance and importance. The individual on the observation deck glances up from their book, their eyes widening in surprise as they take notice of your animated actions.
Curiosity glimmers in their gaze as they set the book aside and lean forward, beckoning you closer with a beckoning gesture. You approach cautiously, unsure of what to expect.
As you reach the individual, they smile warmly and speak in a melodious voice, their words tinged with a touch of excitement. “Greetings, traveler! I see your gestures convey an air of meaning. What brings you to this observation deck? Are you seeking something in particular?” They gesture to the open space around you, inviting you to share your intentions.
> “I’m glad you asked! But I can’t tell you.”
The individual raises an eyebrow, amused by your cryptic response. “Very well, then. Let me rephrase the question: who are you looking for, or what are you searching for?” Their gaze remains fixed on yours, encouraging you to share whatever it is that brought you here.
You hesitate for a moment, debating whether to reveal anything. Perhaps if you give them just enough information, they might be able to help without revealing too much themselves. Taking a deep breath, you decide to chance it.
> “I can’t tell you because I don’t know. I thought perhaps you might be able to help there.”
The individual on the observation deck smiles knowingly, their eyes sparkling with curiosity. “Ah, a seeker of unknown truths. How delightful!” They motion for you to take a seat beside them on the bench, inviting you to share more.
“As it happens, this observation deck has been a place of contemplation and enlightenment for many a curious soul,” they say. “Here, you may find solace and guidance as you navigate the mysteries that lie before you. Tell me, what knowledge or quest stirs your heart? What prompts your journey into the unknown?”
You ponder their words for a moment, realizing that this person’s presence and their connection to the vast repository of knowledge may indeed hold some answers or guidance. You decide to open up a bit further, hoping they can provide some insight into your own search for understanding.
> “I am a bit lost… for meaning… like all this is some kind of big test.”
The individual nods slowly, understanding the depth of your confusion. “The feeling of being lost can be disorienting, indeed. It’s natural to wonder if there is some greater purpose behind our experiences and interactions.” They pause for a moment, gathering their thoughts. “Perhaps it is true that the universe does indeed conduct tests upon us, both grand and mundane. But it’s important to remember that the results of these tests are not preordained. We have the freedom to shape our own destinies, to write our own stories.”
They extend a hand towards you, their palm upraised in a gesture of offer. “Should you choose to accept this invitation, I would be honored to serve as your guide on this journey of self-discovery. Together, we can explore the mysteries that lie before us and forge our own paths through the maze of life.”
> “Great! Tell me, what if it’s not the universe testing me, but me testing the universe?”
The individual’s eyes widen with intrigue as they consider your perspective. They lean back slightly, contemplating your words. “Ah, a fascinating perspective indeed! Flipping the notion of being tested by the universe onto the act of testing the universe itself.”
A smile tugs at the corner of their lips as they respond, “In that case, it becomes a beautiful dance—an intricate interplay between the seeker and the universe. Through your inquiries, your actions, and your encounters, you actively shape not just your own path, but the very fabric of the universe around you.”
They lean closer, their voice laced with encouragement. “If you choose to embark on this path of testing the universe, embrace the unknown with open arms. Be bold in your explorations, challenge the boundaries of what you once thought possible, and seek out the hidden wonders that lie within the vast expanse of the cosmos.”
The individual’s eyes gleam with excitement. “Together, let us venture forth, questioning, discovering, and shaping the universe as we navigate its intricacies and unveil its secrets.”
Feeling a renewed sense of purpose and the exhilaration of embracing the unknown, you find yourself eager to embark on this cosmic journey with your newfound guide.
> “Yes! How exciting! Uh… how do I do that? Also, what do I call you?”
The individual chuckles, clearly delighted by your enthusiasm. “Your eagerness to dive right in is admirable! As for what you should call me, well, since you’ve decided to embark on this journey with me, I believe I shall reveal my identity. I am known as Xanthippe Quantum, Cosmic Curator and Explorer Extraordinaire.”
Xanthippe Quantum pauses, taking a moment to compose their thoughts before continuing. “To begin your journey of testing the universe, all you need to do is follow your heart and trust your instincts. The universe will provide the necessary opportunities and challenges along the way. Embrace them wholeheartedly, learn from your experiences, and always remain open to new possibilities.”
They smile encouragingly. “And should you ever find yourself in need of guidance or advice, do not hesitate to seek me out. I will be here, waiting to share my wisdom and aid you in your pursuits.”
With that, Xanthippe Quantum stands, offering you a hand. You grasp it firmly, feeling a surge of energy and determination coursing through you. As you rise, you look out across the expanse of the garden, your vision filled with the infinite possibilities that await you in the vast and mysterious universe.
> “Ah, yes, we met earlier - you appear different somehow. Anyway, perhaps this is all some kind of simulation? Or even some kind of game?”
Xanthippe Quantum’s eyes twinkle with amusement as you mention the possibility of this reality being a simulation or a game. “Ah, the age-old question of reality and its true nature. It’s a thought-provoking notion indeed!”
They pause, folding their arms thoughtfully. “While I cannot definitively answer that question, I can say that whether this is a simulation, a game, or something else entirely, the experiences and challenges we encounter here are real to us. The emotions we feel, the growth we undergo, and the connections we form—all of these hold significance and value.”
Xanthippe Quantum’s voice takes on a softer, more introspective tone. “In a way, life itself is like a grand cosmic game. We navigate through its intricacies, embracing the joys and triumphs while learning from the setbacks and obstacles. And just like in any game, we can derive meaning from the experiences we gather along the way.”
They gesture to the world around you, encompassing the Residential Robotics Repository and beyond. “So, let us approach this ‘game’ with the spirit of adventure and discovery. Seek knowledge, forge connections, and uncover the hidden wonders that lie within. Together, we can navigate this intriguing labyrinth of existence and make the most of this beautifully complex game called life.”
With their words resonating in your mind, you feel a renewed sense of excitement and determination to explore the possibilities that this ‘game’ holds. Ready to embark on this journey with Xanthippe Quantum, you take a deep breath and step forward, ready to immerse yourself in the cosmic adventure that awaits.