The Fear Construction Kit: A Puzzle Game Exploring the Culture of Fear

Designer: Vyara Zlatilova

Nowadays, fear permeates our society in various forms. People are constantly bombarded with messages about the dangers of the world, leading to a heightened sense of fear and anxiety. The media plays a significant role in perpetuating this culture of fear, using it as a tool for social control, power, and domination. However, fear can also be seen as a way of looking at the world, shaped by our conceptions of what is dangerous and our ability to protect ourselves.

The Fear Construction Kit is designed as an association puzzle game, based on the belief that humans are inherently curious about others' inner desires and deeply hidden secrets. By collecting people's fears through social networks and personal interactions, Zlatilova has created a game that encourages the sharing of fears rather than keeping them a secret. This social experiment raises questions about trust and how individuals relate to each other within the culture of fear.

The game consists of two digitally printed books, The Fear Construction Kit and The Sample Guide. The puzzle parts in The Fear Construction Kit need to be cut out and rearranged to create different images based on the player's fears. The images are intentionally abstract and surreal, adding an extra layer of challenge to the game.

Visually, the edition is dominated by the color white, representing a neutral mental state. The book sleeve, reminiscent of a straitjacket, alludes to the association with a psychiatric hospital. These design choices further enhance the immersive experience of the game, evoking a sense of introspection and self-exploration.

The Fear Construction Kit was awarded the Bronze A' Design Award in 2013 in the Fine Arts and Art Installation Design category. This prestigious award recognizes designs that demonstrate outstanding creativity, resourcefulness, and technical skills. The game's incorporation of art, science, design, and technology contributes to improving the quality of life and making the world a better place.