What is "We Become What We Behold"? Created by the brilliant indie developer Nicky Case, We Become What We Behold is a short, satirical game about the media. It demonstrates the concept of a vicious cycle in less than 5 minutes.
You play as a member of the media, armed with a camera. Your job is to capture moments that catch the public's eye. But you'll quickly learn a harsh truth: Peace is boring. Violence goes viral.
How to Play
The gameplay is simple, intuitive, and accessible on both desktop and mobile devices:
- Point & Click: Use your mouse (or finger) to move the camera frame.
- Snap Photos: Click to take a picture of the "Peeps" (the Squares and Circles).
- Watch the Effect: Your photo will be displayed on the central TV screen. Watch how the crowd reacts to what you show them.
- Shape the Story: Capture trends, love, and eventually... conflict.
Walkthrough & Tips
- At first, try capturing people doing something unusual (like wearing a hat).
- Notice that "normal" people walking nicely doesn't generate interest.
- Be warned: The game forces you to capture conflict to progress. This is part of the commentary on sensationalism.
The Meaning Behind the Game
The title "We Become What We Behold" suggests that society is shaped by what it observes. The game is a powerful critique of:
- Sensationalism: Why the news focuses on tragedy and anger.
- Tribalism: How the differences between "Squares" and "Circles" are amplified by media coverage.
- Feedback Loops: The media shows us conflict, so we become more conflicted, giving the media more conflict to show.
It serves as a cautionary tale about how observing toxicity can amplify it.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Is We Become What We Behold unblocked? A: Yes, this site allows you to play the game freely without restrictions (perfect for school or work breaks).
Q: Who made this game? A: It was created by Nicky Case, known for other interactive web explanations like "The Evolution of Trust."
Q: How long is the game? A: It is a short experience, typically taking about 5 to 8 minutes to reach the ending.