AR BOX

What is it?

Starting as a Google-sponsored AR game jam in the fall of 2018, ARBox was created to combine phone-based Augmented Reality with IOT devices to create immersive, interactive stories and puzzles.

Several versions of the game were made, from room-scale installation work to a shippable box with props that could be set up and used to turn any space into an interactive magical escape room.

The phone would act as a companion character, puzzle guide, and behind-the-scenes showrunner, triggering room effects. Storylines included escaping a witch library with a forbidden book, and another: what to do with a box full of stolen magical government property.

AR puzzles revealed hidden messages when cards or symbols were arranged correctly; magical gems would turn room lights different colors; hidden speakers would call out at key moments, and we even got paper to light up a star map.

What I love about it

Finding ways to take AR from focused on the screen to feeling like it can affect the world around it. Hue light integration paired with emotional story beats created fun, dramatic moments.

I also loved creating the branding for a 60’s-themed magical government organization.