Whether it’s terraforming a new planet, live-streaming from the vomit dimension or creating a multi-chamber vagina forest, it’s clear that there’s no job too big for alpha_rats. The Tokyo-based developer and artist specialises in interactive VR experiences and installations, made using game engines, 3D modelling, VR software and multiple scripting systems. Their work has been featured at SXSW, Sundance Film Festival and the Venice Biennale, as well as at exhibitions in London’s Saatchi Gallery and the Bergen Kunsthall in Norway.
Since 2020, alpha_rats has been collaborating with musician GLOR1A on an ongoing live A/V and video game project titled SWARM. It debuted as a performance for online series Fact Live and has since evolved into an interactive game set in a virtual world that draws from Afrofuturism and Nigerian Nok culture. SWARM’s fifth iteration will be broadcasted live on Twitch and have multiplayer accessibility via the chat box.
When alpha_rats isn’t busy constructing artificial biospheres or perfecting gameplay mechanisms, they’re designing an original deck of tarot cards as well as managing Spektrum Crush, a zine dedicated to digital garbage, video games and all things VR.
Text Morna Fraser
