Ski Free was an exploration of electronic materials. After learning how to build circuits using different materials, we wanted to experiment with unconventional controllers that would allow us to interact with the digital world through our bodies.
Focusing primarily on lower-body movement, we explored several approaches, including boxing and fighting games. After multiple iterations, we arrived at the idea of building a ski simulator, as it allowed us to use body balance as the main game controller. Additionally, since neither of us had ever skied before, it felt like an opportunity to explore the unknown. We chose the popular 1991 computer game SkiFree as our software and began developing the project.
We started by building a first prototype out of wood—a very simple design that used metal meshes to simulate directional buttons. However, it didn’t feel right, as there was very little emphasis on balance during gameplay. For the second iteration, we built a balance board using a wooden cylinder. While this came closer to our goal, the friction between the wooden parts made it difficult to use. Finally, by incorporating marbles, we were able to create a more fluid and effective interaction for the ski simulator, allowing direction changes through full lower-body movement supported by ski poles.
Building this project we got to practice our skill in building circuits and understanding how they work as a material for interactive installations.
