Pattern Recognition: Failed

Project Type: Experimental Prototype (Interactive Systems & Player Interpretation)

Engine: Unity

Role: Programming & Game Design

This project explores how meaning emerges through play by placing the player in the perspective of a robot that does not understand human behaviour.

The core loop alternates between simple, repetitive “mission tasks” and open-ended downtime. During these quieter moments, the player interacts with everyday objects (stacking, moving, and experimenting) while the robot observes and attempts to interpret these actions.

Rather than defining play through rules or objectives, the system focuses on interpretation. Objects begin as unknown entities, and through repeated interaction, the robot generates evolving descriptions based on observed patterns. The same player action can be reinterpreted over time, shifting from “random movement” to “structured behavior” or “intentional play.”

Key systems explored:

• Object interaction system
• Object scanning system that generates and updates interpretations based on player interaction
• State-based observation model where repeated actions influence how behaviour is categorized
• Contrast between structured tasks (missions) and unstructured play (exploration)
• Minimal-feedback design to encourage player-driven meaning-making rather than explicit goals

The design intentionally removes traditional win/lose conditions during exploration segments. Instead, the focus is on how players experiment when given space, and how systems can reflect that behaviour back in unexpected ways.

This project was an exploration of play as a form of learning and interpretation, using systems design to translate abstract behaviour into evolving in-game meaning.