Queer Maximalism HyperBody
A downloadable spatial experiment for Windows
Queer Maximalism HyperBody is an exploration of how post-humanism and techno-Orientalism redefine maximalism in art and architecture. Utilising VR and AR technologies, this project delves into the concept of the "HyperBody"—an overwhelming blend of architecture, anatomy, anthropology, and gaming.
The research spans three distinct locales in China, each symbolising a form of excess: the Hyper-religious Body in Dunhuang Caves, Gansu Province; the Hyper-sexual Body in Beijing; and the Hyper-gastronomical Body in Chongqing. By conducting fieldwork in these regions, the project aims to remix, recreate, and rediscover spaces that transcend the human body, ultimately creating the "HyperBody"—a multi-reality architectural experiment bridging the physical and virtual worlds.
Developed from October 2018 to December 2019 by Pete Jiadong Qiang and Mingxuan Xie under the art duo Hyperbation, Queer Maximalism HyperBody emerged as an experimentally experimental, "dangerous", and uncompromised architectural trance.
The project was an autoethnographic spatial archive of co-created notes, poems, sound, and voice-overs shared between Hyperbation's audiences and close friends from Dunhuang, Beijing, Chongqing, and Hangzhou. It served as a precursor to Qiang's doctoral project HyperBody, integrating physical and virtual spaces in a bold, psychotic, and cult-like manner.
Tribute to the good old days: Queer Maximalism HyperBody must blaze!
Level 1: Hyper Bedouin Tent
Level 2: Rubik's Cube Mansion
Level 3: Parallel Cave
Level 4: CAVE 465
Level 5: Underwater Lama Temple
Level 6: Anatomy of Embryonic Sexual Power
Level 7: Ba&Shu Binary Star HyperBody: Hashashin
Level 8: Ba&Shu Binary Star HyperBody: Shun
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Install instructions
*** Warning: Queer Maximalism HyperBody - For Experienced VR Users Only ***
Queer Maximalism HyperBody is an experimental VR experience designed to push the boundaries of VR. Due to its untamed nature, this game may not be suitable for all audiences.
Please read this warning carefully before playing.
Potential Health Risks:
Nausea and Dizziness: This game utilises intense visual and audio stimuli, which can induce nausea, dizziness, and disorientation in some players.
Epilepsy: The rapid flashing lights and strobing effects used in the game may trigger seizures in those with photosensitive epilepsy.
Exacerbation of Pre-existing Conditions: Individuals with a history of heart conditions, mental health issues, or inner ear problems may experience a worsening of symptoms during gameplay.
Additional Symptoms: VR use can also cause headaches, sweating, fatigue, and difficulty focusing.
Recommended Precautions:
Self-Assessment: If you experience any discomfort, dizziness, nausea, or other concerning symptoms, discontinue playing immediately.
Take Breaks: Taking a break every 15 minutes is highly recommended to allow your body and mind to rest.
Gradual Acclimation: If you are new to VR, it is advisable to start with shorter play sessions and gradually increase the duration as you become accustomed to the experience.
Seek Medical Advice: If you have concerns about your health or fitness for VR use, consult a medical professional before playing.
Disclaimer:
Queer Maximalism HyperBody is provided "as is" without warranty of any kind. By playing this game, you assume all risks associated with VR use. The developers are not liable for any damages arising from gameplay.
This is a serious game for experienced VR users only. Play at your own risk and prioritise your well-being.
* For Queer Maximalism HyperBody's experimental nature, please check system requirements first, view the player instructions and start playing.
System Requirements Minimum:
Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system
OS: Windows 10 (64-bit)
Processor: Intel Core i5-7500 / Ryzen 5 1600
Memory: 16 GB RAM
Graphics: GeForce GTX 1080 Ti
DirectX: Version 11
Storage: 30 GB available space
VR Support: OpenXR, Seated with Swivel Chair, Standing, Roomscale. Valve Index, HTC Vives and Pico using SteamVR. Oculus headsets with Oculus Runtime. WMR headsets with WMR Runtime.
Additional Notes: Virtual Desktop is not recommended (Questlink/Airlink Fully Supported).
* Player Instructions:
- Setup: Ensure your PCVR is connected and ready.
- Start the Game: Unzip the game files, run "混沌极繁超体 Queer Maximalism HyperBody.exe", change Graphics Quality to "Very High" at least, and click "Play."
- Wear Headset: Put on your VR headset.
- Movement:
- Push both controllers' thumbsticks forward slightly to move in your facing direction.
- Push the thumbsticks left, right, or back to adjust your location.
- Slightly rotate your head and look up or down to navigate the environment.
- Synchronization: Align your movements with your virtual character. Move forward together for a seamless experience.
- Level 3: 465 Cave:
- Press the "A" button on your right-hand controller to draw.
- Collaborate with other players to create a new 465 esoteric cave.
- Objective: Access all hidden HyperBody levels by approaching different portals which look like shining eyes or vaginas.
- Hot Keys:
- If lost, type "R" on your keyboard to reset the current level.
- Press keys "1" to "8" to jump to different main levels; you will be transferred to parallel levels randomly from 8 main levels, each containing parallel sub-levels.
- Switch virtual characters by typing "Z", "X", "C", "V", "B", "N", "M", ",", "." or "/".
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