Published by Electronic Arts, Incorporated and developed by Futique Incorporated, Mind Mirror is a very unique…bordering on weird or psychedelic…simulation game that travels through a person’s brain and analyzes thought patterns. It was designed by Timothy Leary, a world leading psychologist at the time of Mind Mirror’s release. It was a middle eighties release that saw time on the early personal computer running MS-DOS, the Atari 8 Bit, and the most popular Commodore 64. It is a licensed title from its maker.
Mind Mirror, one should bear in mind, is not an action packed adventure, but focuses on real life simulation.
It is partly a game, since it is fun to rate other people and track their mental patterns…even compare them to others. It is a large part simulation, since it accurately maps the brain’s thought patterns. It is also a little bit spooky in its philosophical ideals. This having been said, it is still a unique and interesting party game.
The game is set up somewhat like a role playing game where the user’s “perceived” self will interact with various situations and other people. It is up to the gamer to create the profile of both himself, as well as those around him that will be featured in the game. Therefore, the program is not infallible.
Its accuracy will depend upon the user’s input. Many people find it interesting to analyze how the gamer views himself in comparison to how others view him. This is what makes the game fun at parties. Because the user controls the input, the level of seriousness is also at his fingertips. This can be a silly and interesting party game, or a deep and contemplative self-reflecting experience.
There are several different modes in which to play Mind Mirror. Some are more active than others. Life Mode, for example, makes the user a predominantly passive onlooker as his life unfolds. Results of rating systems and inputs are digitized to make a psychedelic pattern that is similar to screen savers and waves that dance to modern synthesized music.
In short, Mind Mirror is definitely a one of a kind game that is easier to experience than describe. The user will get out of it what he puts into it, and may even surprise himself along the way. It can be a crazy party experience or a tool to aid in self-reflection, depending on your mood. Regardless of how you use it, it will certainly be one of the more unique applications you will ever experience.
