Olivia Cahyono

The Facade of Choice

My latest work, The Facade of Choice is an interactive experience in a 2D role-playing action setting that illudes personal agency and the concept of decision-making. The main themes I explore are self-determination and the illusion of choice, whether or not the idea of choosing something out of free will or by force matters. It is supposed to be frustrating, an intentional experience from impatience and predetermination.The story focuses on the creator of the game guiding you within his world by creating your character and woes you to do their bidding. When you do choose to go against their command, the player is forced to fight and stand their ground. With the question of predetermined outcomes, my game is inspired by the video games Undertale and OneShot for questioning morality and choices made within the game; the purpose of my work is fueled by my internal struggle to make choices of my own volition after growing up in a controlling household.

“Come, hero. let us repeat our unending cycle of destiny!”