Zen Boat - Project Update #3

We're going all out in the pursuit of Zen. The question remains what exactly is Zen and how do you create an experience that enforces that to the player and gives a Zen experience.

One of the biggest challenges I think we have right now is the somewhat loose interpretation of what Zen means. It really breaks down to two trains of thought/definitions:

ZEN (Z-eh-n); noun

1. Japanese school of thought emphasizing meditation and peacefulness
2. Total state of focus and togetherness of mind and body.

It's not these definitions are two sides of a coin, but rather they seem to occupy different zones of gameplay experiences.

For example: I would consider Proteus to be a game of meditation and peacefulness. The experience of exploration without objectives creates an environment of serenity and calmness.

The problem I have with Proteus is it really isn't a game. 

Not that there is anything wrong with that, it just becomes a challenge to develop a product that is still engaging, interactive, and most importantly fun while passively/discreetly including goals and purpose.

Looks like we have our work cut out for us :)

Also, here's a picture of our first build: (credit to Eric Hurst's Blog)