The use of psychedelics has always evoked a fascinating response and has inspired artists and creative minds around the world. One specific psychedelic experience that is becoming increasingly common in digital media is that involving magic mushrooms. Mushrooms are easy to grow and contain a unique compound of substances that can cause visual hallucinations and colorful images. Today we will explore the influence of magic mushrooms on digital media, such as games, movies and art.
Table of contents
A psychedelic journey through the virtual world
In the world of gaming, there is an increasing fascination with psychedelic experiences. The impressive visual effects and sense of transcendence associated with ingesting psilocybin, lend themselves perfectly to the intense experiences that games can provide. Developers use vivid colors, distorted shapes and dreamy landscapes to immerse players in an extraordinary virtual trip. A good example of this is the game "Journey."
This acclaimed indie game takes players on an emotional journey through a surreal landscape full of mysticism and enchantment. As players traverse a mysterious desert, they are confronted with breathtaking visuals reminiscent of a hallucinogenic experience. The combination of a compelling story and visual splendor makes this game an experience in itself.
The imagination brought to life
Mushrooms have also figured prominently in the film world. Directors often use psychedelic sequences to put characters through inner journeys or visionary states. These scenes, characterized by distorted images, colors and sounds, allow the viewer to temporarily escape their own reality and join the frenzied world of the film. A classic example of the use of magic mushrooms in film is 1968's legendary "Yellow Submarine," based on music by The Beatles.
Packed with colorful and psychedelic images, this animated film takes you on a magical journey through Pepperland, where nothing is what it seems and everything is possible [1]. This does sound like a trip on the Mazatapec mushroom! With its unique visual style and upbeat soundtrack, this film remains an inspiration more than fifty years later. Mushrooms and their history have also become popular documentaries, exploring their history, effects and spiritual meanings [2]. Such films often feature experts sharing their knowledge about the use and culture surrounding psychedelics.
2 films based on psychedelics
Enter the Void, ever seen it? This is a bizarre experimental film by Gaspar Noé with psychedelic visuals and a non-linear storyline. The film pulls you into a hallucinogenic world from the perspective of the main character, making for a unique experience.
Also, the movie: 2001: A Space Odyssey is cool to see. The famous "Star Gate" scene from Stanley Kubrick's film is often considered a psychedelic experience. The visuals and sounds take you on a crazy journey through space and time.
2 games based on psychedelics
The game Psychonauts is a fat adventure game in which you travel through the bizarre, mind-blowing worlds of other characters' minds. The creative level design and unique storyline make it a cool game in which you can definitely see that it was influenced by psychedelics.
The game LSD Dream Emulator (the name says it all) is also bold to play. It is a Japanese game set in a surreal dream world, based on the creator's diaries. Every time you play, it's different, which gives the game an unpredictable and psychedelic atmosphere.
Exploring the mind with art
In the world of art, magic mushrooms serve as a window into the inner worlds of artists. Artworks inspired by psychedelics can have different interpretations and are often characterized by abstract forms, bright colors and a sense of wonder. They invite the viewer to step outside the boundaries of conventional reality and explore the mind.
One particular artist whose work is influenced by magic mushrooms is Alex Grey. His detailed and colorful paintings, known as the "Sacred Mirrors," show the inner structure of the human body and mind [3]. Using psychedelic elements such as twisted forms and surrealist symbolism, Grey evokes a sense of wonder and invites viewers to explore their own consciousness.
Sources:
[2] https://www.jellinek.nl/vraag-antwoord/wat-is-de-geschiedenis-van-truffels-en-paddos/
[3] https://www.alexgrey.com/news/luxury-magazine-2017-10-10
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