RE-METAMORPHOSIS

RE-METAMORPHOSIS is a narrative puzzle serious game that explores the phenomenon of the social clock in East Asian societies. The social clock—a concept introduced by psychologist Bernice Neugarten—refers to society’s shared expectations regarding major life events such as education, career, marriage, and parenthood. As an implicit social norm, it profoundly shapes individuals’ life choices and self-perception, often leading not only to behavioral conformity but also to the alienation of self-identity.

Our survey shows that over 70% of respondents experience social clock anxiety, including time anxiety, career confusion, relationship pressure, and diminished self-worth. Based on this social context, we designed a narrative puzzle game that allows players to reflect on their relationship with the social clock and rediscover their authentic selves.

In the game, players take on the role of Li Mu—a 30-year-old architect trapped in a time loop and alienated into various forms such as a mule, a hummingbird, a bharal and a petrel. Through exploring surreal environments, collecting clues, completing a scrapbook, and breaking the loop, players journey backward through life stages—from the working years to childhood—ultimately returning to an egg, a symbol of infinite possibility.

With interactive puzzles, stress-relief mini-games, and philosophical reflections from a pet turtle, the game offers a space for emotional release and self-exploration. It invites players to question the social clock, confront alienation, and find the courage to redefine their lives on their own terms.