MSTR.CTRL.STATION is a 2-Player Interactive Video machine built for temporary installation near stages with loud music. Like the Ribboncube, the interface is unlabeled, and its controls are discovered through experimentation and play. One button may cause a flock of birds to cross the screen, another plays video of a flying starship from Battlestar Galactica, a crossfader spins graphics across the screen, a series of buttons control a color organ, and a joystick does…seemingly nothing…until you find the right button to push while you wiggle it.
The machine encourages play, and its installation near stages infuse the actions (and output) of the machine with a sense of synesthesia, as the human brain matches up on-screen animation with environmental sound.
The box is all powered by a laptop sitting inside, which is easily removeable for changes to the program. The control surface is also modular, existing in its own box which can be switched out for a new controller on a per-installation basis. The whole rig sits atop a mobility walker, allowing easy transport to and from stages.
The construction of MCS was possible thanks to a grant from SOAK - the Portland Burning Man Regional Event. The device will be joined by a DDR pad in the future, to extend playability to a third person. Here’s a look at the original concept:
