ABSTRACT
This essay explores theatrical collaboration in the creation of Alternate Reality Games (ARGs) with the group All Of Them Witches. Recently, theatre practices and performance studies have helped ARGs both protect and expand their audiences. All Of Them Witches is a major proponent behind this theatrical model in ARG creation. Their 2020 production, Arcana, was selected by the LA Times as one of the top 10 games of the year. Their work is a theatrical, multimedia, immersive game for audiences to engage with at any level. All Of Them Witches mixes practical approaches for creating immersive ARGs with theory from performance studies, dramatic literature, and game theory. In addition to exploring their methods for collaborative creation with puzzle makers, true crime investigators, and media producers; this essay explores their approach to social contracts and consent, offering advice for navigating complex immersive relationships across social media and real-life performances.
