The Plot Description: Concrete Paradise
The underlying purpose of this ARG is to empower players by helping them realize a sense of agency. Moreover, to fit in the theme of ‘a better world’, this ARG also aims to educate users on particular ethical issues (poor corporate governance / corrupt organisations).
Through a fictional narrative, we will incorporate real life events - in particular the missions. This will give a sense of real time play.
Blackbird Enterprises - the antagonist - a multi-billion dollar company planning to overtake the 'hidden city'
The Shadow - an anonymous identity - the protagonist - seeks to name and shame corrupt companies whilst protect the 'hidden city'.
The Setting: Concrete Paradise / The Catalyst
Set in the present time, an alternate (parallel) reality emerges though the concrete surfaces of urbanised cities – a new existence spawned by the increasingly digitised world. However, the majority of civilisation remains blissfully unaware of its existence, even though it literally surrounds them. Rather than attempting to accept that it is an alternate reality, think of it as a hidden digital city – integrated into real life. (Hidden within the walls could be a code, a password, the key to holographic maps and interactive interface)
Those who have uncovered this secret construct, aim to keep the treasure to themselves, protecting paradise from corruption. It boasts as the key to an oasis of information. It thrives on innovation and open source codes. It survives on the basis of collaboration.
Many refer to this digital paradise as The Catalyst.
A large organisation (Blackbird Enterprises – 'We view the world from above') has recently become aware of its existence and wants to steal the city for profits. Known for its power hungry domination. At this stage, the high profile company is attempting acquisition of the Catalyst with strategy. It seems they are seeking to infiltrate the city undercover and slowly overtake the digital city. Placing many logos as the portal around various concrete surfaces.
To prevent this, an anonymous identity (known as the shadow – becomes the puppet master) based in an unknown underground research lab has been tracking down confidential phone lines and movements of high profile organisations. On pursuit of tracking down suspicious activities, to identify whether Blackbird is responsible – The shadow has encountered evidence of corporate abuse by other large organisations.
Afraid of outside sources gaining easy access to his information and identity – The shadow releases his information through a series of set missions. Using the digital city to exchange information. Here he recruits players and immerses them into the reality of 'The Catalyst'.
Sick of some organisations lack of corporate social responsibility, the shadow attempts to name and shame them all. Especially Blackbird Enterprises.
