Client

Overview

An interactive multiplayer experiment.
OPAL is an interactive experimental installation that explores the relationship of the micro, macro and the inbetween. Equipped with a custom designed interactive flashlight, participants unveil an organic universe that takes them into an almost meditative state. In this immersive experience, the visual and musical ambiance influence one another and form a singular ecosystem, sensitive to movement and light.

Goals

The word opal refers to the energy, interconnectivity and iridescence of the world created for the experience, somewhere between outer space and underwater, and universes both known and unknown. It was designed to awaken curiosity, encourage discovery, and evoke emotion. Our desire was to transform audiences into active participants, while offering them a contemplative pause.

Process

What started as an R&D project in the Gentilhomme LAB took on a life of its own, rapidly transforming into a scalable multi-user interactive experience. Using interactive flashlights, participants illuminate the on-screen visuals, which influences the soundtrack, like a musical instrument, resulting in a chain reaction of the senses. From a technological perspective, the detectable flashlights leverage Gentilhomme’s bespoke tracking software. What makes them particularly innovative is their ability to be individually tracked in 3D across three axes, enhancing the overall realism of the experience. The installation is significantly scalable and can accommodate various venues, screen sizes, while simultaneous tracking numerous devices.

Additional Information

The team designed this object and its components to also address common challenges in connected devices. “By omitting sensors, we've avoided on-site battery issues, making the overall usage simpler and more efficient.” - member of team.