We Become What We Behold

Overview of We Become What We Behold

We Become What We Behold is a casual indie game that examines how the media shapes public perception. The whole experience occurs on a single screen with squares and circles moving around. As the player, you take on the role of the "media camera," recording events that will be shared with the world. The characters' responses vary according to what you decide to emphasize, demonstrating how news cycles can devolve into conflict and mayhem.

History of the We Become What We Behold Game

The game was developed by indie creator Nicky Case and released in 2016. Known for making interactive experiences that explore psychology and social behavior, Case designed We Become What We Behold as a quick but impactful project. The game quickly went viral on web-game platforms and social media because of its unique message and its opening quote:

“We become what we behold. We shape our tools, and then our tools shape us.”
— Marshall McLuhan

This quote sets the tone for the entire experience, encouraging players to reflect on how media influences real-world actions.

How to Play We Become What We Behold

Playing the game is simple. You observe characters walking around the screen and take photos of specific moments. Whatever you capture is shown on a small TV monitor. The characters then react to the “news” they see, changing their behavior accordingly.

Your goal is to follow the instructions that appear at the bottom of the screen while experimenting with different scenarios. Because every choice shapes the future, the game becomes a chain reaction of your decisions.

Gameplay Explained

The gameplay loop centers on taking photos that influence character behavior:

• Capture peaceful scenes to promote calmness.
• Focus on negative or violent scenes, and the world becomes chaotic.
• Photograph unique actions and watch how the crowd imitates them.
• Your choices gradually escalate tensions between squares and circles.
• The game naturally progresses toward a dramatic ending based on what you choose to show the world.

Mouse and Keyboard Guide

The controls are beginner-friendly:

Mouse Controls

• Move the mouse – Aim the camera frame.
• Left-click – Capture a photo.
• Hover over characters – Preview what you’re about to take.

Keyboard Controls

• The game primarily relies on the mouse; no major keyboard controls are required.
• Press R on some versions to restart.
• Press Esc to exit the browser or pause.
• Because the game is designed for accessibility, players of all ages can enjoy it without needing complex controls.

Tips to Play We Become What We Behold

Want to get the best outcome or understand the game’s deeper meaning? Here are some helpful tips:

• Follow the hints shown at the bottom of the screen—they guide you toward the next important moment.
• Avoid repeating the same type of photo; diversity triggers different reactions.
• Experiment with capturing calm moments, not just dramatic ones.
• Watch how characters react after each photo, as this helps you predict what will happen next.
• Take your time—the game may be short, but pacing affects how events unfold.
• Aim for accuracy when trying to capture special events like new behaviors.
• Keep in mind the message: dramatic events follow dramatic news.

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