Google has partnered up with Montreal, Quebec-based indie rock band Arcade Fire to create a HTML5-based experiment for Google Chrome ”The Wilderness Downtown.” Now, it’s a little bit difficult to define or even describe what the experiment really is, as it’s composed of several elements such as audio, film, graphics, and other interactive features. Users are asked to enter their childhood address at the beginning.
Once the experiment begins, several Chrome windows open while playing “We Used To Wait” by Arcade Fire. Some of the windows show graphics and video clips, while others show Google Maps aerial and Street View images of the childhood address entered at the beginning. All the while, all the features are paired with HTML5 to make the experience truly interactive and fun.
At one point, one is even asked to write or draw a postcard to a younger self.
Some might find the experience a little weird, but overall I thought it was fun. It’s very much the style of Arcade Fire. Those, who like myself, like the band very much will find this experiment very interesting.
Do take into account that the experiment only works on Google Chrome. Google also warns that the experience is processor intensive. Users are advised to closed programs and/or tabs that are not in use to make the experience much better.
The Arcade Fire Google Experiment can be found at www.chromeexperiments.com/arcadefire. Let us know what you think if you give it a try.
