GHOST IN THE MACHINE
Composition is everything in this otherworldly musical exploration game
On the surface, it all looks so simple. “I’ve been working
in this ‘clear line’ art style for over a decade, so it’s what
comes naturally,” artist and illustrator Jean de Wet tells us.
“Having said that, we’re definitely paying a nostalgic
homage to the early ‘visually limited’ video and computer
games from the ’80s.”
But Haunted Garage has layers. It’s an adventure game
set across multiple dimensions, where exploring one world
summons unusual instruments to tinker with in another. “The
contraptions are inspired by electronic musical devices from
the ’70s,” de Wet says. “Analogue synthesisers and drum
machines are an inspiration in terms of functionality and
aesthetics – but always with a slightly humorous element.”
Fiddle with buttons, knobs, switches and strings and you’ll
find yourself creating a bespoke looping soundtrack.
A picture-in-picture view lets you wander landscapes,
peering into portals while remaining in the studio: “Although
there is a variety of styles, there is also a distinct golden
thread that will draw all of them together,” de Wet explains.
The curious machines are a constant, controlled by
seemingly unknown forces: “None of the sensibilities
adhere to any normal state of being, and you are forced to
make sense of things as you go along.” This peaceful,
paranormal space will haunt a PC near you next year. Q