New Books in Science, Technology, and Society
Hey, Robot!
Sep 16, 2024
Join Frank Lantz, a game designer and NYU professor, as he dives into the innovative world of gaming and voice technology. Discover how his game, Hey Robot, merges fun and interaction with smart assistants like Alexa. Lantz discusses the surge in board game popularity during the pandemic and the fascinating implications of voice communication in our digital age. Unpack the complexities of human-AI interactions and explore how gaming can create shared experiences, even in isolation.
28:34
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Quick takeaways
- The podcast emphasizes how the board game 'Hey Robot' combines digital technology and social interaction, enhancing gaming experiences during physical isolation.
- Frank Lantz explores the evolving dynamics of our relationships with voice assistants, transforming them from tools to playful, collaborative partners in gameplay.
Deep dives
Embracing New Audio Experiences
The podcast discusses the innovations in audio experiences and gaming, particularly during the pandemic, when many turned to technology for entertainment. It features Frank Lance, a game designer who created a board game called 'Hey Robot,' which challenges players to provoke smart speakers like Alexa or Google Home to say specific words. This game highlights the unique interaction of voice computing, blending technology with social engagement by encouraging family and friends to play together, either in-person or remotely. As gameplay predominantly relied on voice commands, it emphasized the often-overlooked sonic qualities of gaming, providing a new layer of engagement in an increasingly digital world.
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