Elektroplankton Review

In recent years, adventurous academics such as Professor Henry Jenkins of the Massachusetts Institute Of Technology have argued that videogames should be regarded as an art form, and are as valid a form of expression as music or film. But while most new releases stick doggedly with commercially successful formulae, Electroplankton adds weight to Jenkins’ hypothesis. Created by digital artist Toshio Iwai, it’s essentially a music generator where players use the DS’ touch screen and mic to interact with the colourful organisms living in a virtual Petri dish, in turn creating surreal tunes and iridescent light shows. Without the ability to record your work, it’s an idea that’s only partially realised. But as an attempt to create something unique, Electroplankon is an addictive and imaginative diversion. DM