Evolve or Die
8 July 2008Participation in Least Dangerous Game has never been what I’d call stellar. With mentions in multiple publications and on TV, things simply haven’t gone anywhere.
At a guess, 10 to 15 people will actually be reading the clues on a game day with 0 to 4 people intending on acting on the clues.
The game is good natured and joyful, and I have been happy to put it on for as long as I have. The people who have participated are great and seem to enjoy themselves, but things are stagnating.
It seems like the game has to change. Something about it isn’t attracting an audience. Maybe it is the technology. Maybe it is the time range. Maybe it is the incentive.
The overall point here is, it is time for some retooling. As witty and smart at news agencies seem to believe Least Dangerous Game is, it doesn’t translate to the general public. And if people don’t feel like getting involved, then opinions don’t mean much.
And this is in no way a dig at anyone who has participated. The online community, and Minnesota interactive community in general has been awesome. Everyone who plays has been really excited, and people love spreading the word. The fans of the game are great and very supportive.
But it’s time to step back to the drawing board and find a new direction for inspiration. Let’s hope something neat pops into place. I’ll see you in a little bit!
7 Responses to “Evolve or Die”
July 8th, 2008 at 4:53 pm
[…] Least Dangerous Game: As cool as everyone thinks the Twitter hide and seek game is, not many people are actually playing. Aric’s going back to the drawing board. […]
July 8th, 2008 at 5:32 pm
I’m one of those that follow the clues, but never act on them. I’m typically doing other stuff on game day.
I’ve always thought that instead of actually having to go to the location, if we could just twitter the answer, it would allow for more players, even those that have moved away from Mpls. And you could twitter the clues from anywhere you wanted.
Good luck on the inspirational hunt
July 8th, 2008 at 6:09 pm
I can see your point. The initial intent of Least Dangerous Game was to get the internet community off of their computers and into the public. But face to face meet ups have become more common as the community grows. Maybe this aspect of the game isn’t necessary any longer. Something to think on.
July 9th, 2008 at 1:26 am
You mention the timing - Saturday afternoons are very busy. Although there is never a real downtime for anyone, it is possible that Sunday afternoon might have a better draw. The other thing that you are now dealing with is oil prices. People are not as willing to jump in the car and drive across The Cities. I agree that we need to get away from the computer and meet people. I have had the pleasure of meeting you a couple of times and enjoyed our conversations. There are difficult logistic challenges to LDG but I know you are very creative and will find a way to morph LDG into a phenomena.
July 15th, 2008 at 1:44 am
Here’s my two cents.
I’m only available to play once every two or three times, but I do really enjoy going through the clues while learning more about the Twin Cities area.
I’ve never won but did wind up being second during a game last year at the Fairgrounds. What I enjoyed the most the social aspect and chatting with you and the first place winner for 15 minutes or so.
I wonder if it could turn into an event after you’re found. Maybe the media that has covered you would offer to sponsor an event at or near where you’re hiding? Then it could turn into a true meetup. whether it’s a free tour of something, a happy hour, etc.
Again, just my two cents and I look forward to playing LDG soon.
August 5th, 2008 at 1:51 am
try adding some danger! or B00Bs
August 5th, 2008 at 7:42 pm
Hmmmm. Danger boobs.