About Flatland
THE GAME
Flatland is an Augmented Reality Real Time Strategy (ARRTS) game based on Edward Abbot’s novel Flatland. The game play is similar to aspects of flashlight tag, capture the flag and Stratego. The game is played on a standard sized Soccer or Football field. There are two teams, each team has 5 players. There is a fixed time limit and the winning team is whichever team has the most points at the end of the allocated time. Each player uses a cast scepter equipped with a Nokia N810 and custom electronics. Each player refers to the tablet screen and speakers on their scepter for feedback on their performance in the game. During the game each team must come up with a strategy for the best use of their time. Activities can include building up points and/or diminishing the opposing teams points using a range of game actions including revealing invisible structures and players, building structures, transporting resources, attack- ing structures, and attacking players. These activities require synchronized group “rituals” involving player positions and gesture patterns using the game scepter.