Internet Roadtrip: A Collaborative Virtual Journey Through Google Street View
Imagine embarking on a road trip with thousands of strangers, collectively deciding where to go, what to listen to, and what to see. That's the premise of Internet Roadtrip, a unique online game created by Neal Agarwal.
What is Internet Roadtrip?
Internet Roadtrip can be described as an MMORTG (massive multiplayer online road trip game). Creator Neal Agarwal calls it a "road-trip simulator." The game leverages Google Street View, allowing players to vote every 10 seconds on the direction the "car" should travel. Players can also vote to honk the horn or change the radio station. The option with the most votes determines the car's next move, guiding it along a scenic, albeit slow, virtual journey.
A Nostalgic Nod to Twitch Plays Pokémon
The concept might sound familiar to those who remember Twitch Plays Pokémon, a stream from over a decade ago where viewers collectively played Pokémon Red by voting on button presses. Internet Roadtrip shares a similar spirit of collaborative gameplay, but with a more relaxed and organized approach. With a smaller player base and the aid of organizational tools like Discord, the experience is far less chaotic.
The Slow Pace of Virtual Travel
Progress in Internet Roadtrip is deliberately slow. The car moves at a snail's pace, slower than walking. Discord moderators manage expectations, explaining to newcomers that ambitious destinations like Las Vegas from Maine are unrealistic, potentially taking months of real-world time to reach. Even seemingly closer destinations like Alaska present challenges.
According to the Discord FAQ, Google Street View's coverage of roads leading to Alaska has gaps in available imagery. This means the virtual car could get stuck indefinitely if players attempted to navigate those routes. The moderators have confirmed that all potential roads to Alaska have these gaps.
The Journey, Not the Destination
Unlike other Street View-based games like GeoGuessr, Internet Roadtrip has no specific objective. While some players have suggested driving to Canada, a more attainable goal from the current location in Maine, the destination isn't the primary focus. The true appeal lies in the spontaneous moments and shared experiences along the way.
Imagine listening to a college radio station from a liberal arts school with a thousand strangers, all while virtually traversing the scenic backroads of Blue Hill, Maine. That's the essence of Internet Roadtrip – a celebration of the journey, not the destination.
Key Features of Internet Roadtrip
- Collaborative Navigation: Players collectively decide the route by voting on directions every 10 seconds.
- Interactive Elements: Vote to honk the horn or change the radio station.
- Google Street View Integration: Explore the world through Google's panoramic street-level imagery.
- Community-Driven Experience: Share the journey with thousands of other players.
- Spontaneous Discoveries: Encounter unexpected sights and sounds along the virtual road.
The Appeal of Shared Virtual Experiences
Internet Roadtrip taps into the growing desire for shared virtual experiences. In a world increasingly connected online, people are seeking new ways to connect and interact with others. This game provides a unique platform for collective exploration and discovery, fostering a sense of community among its players.
Internet Roadtrip vs. GeoGuessr
While both Internet Roadtrip and GeoGuessr utilize Google Street View, they offer vastly different experiences:
- GeoGuessr: A game of geographical knowledge and deduction, where players try to identify their location based on visual clues.
- Internet Roadtrip: A collaborative and leisurely exploration of the world, with no specific goals or objectives.
The Creator: Neal Agarwal
Neal Agarwal is known for creating engaging and often quirky online experiences. His other projects include:
- Life Stats: A website that calculates various statistics about your life based on your birthdate.
- Make Internet Friends: A platform for connecting with strangers online.
- Space Elevator: An interactive simulation of a space elevator.
Why Internet Roadtrip is Captivating
Several factors contribute to the captivating nature of Internet Roadtrip:
- The Element of Surprise: You never know where the road will lead, creating a sense of anticipation and excitement.
- The Power of Collective Decision-Making: Being part of a group that shapes the journey is a unique and engaging experience.
- The Joy of Shared Discovery: Discovering interesting places and experiences with others fosters a sense of community.
- The Relaxing Pace: The slow pace allows you to truly appreciate the scenery and the shared experience.
How to Join the Virtual Road Trip
Joining Internet Roadtrip is simple:
- Visit the Internet Roadtrip website.
- Wait for the next voting round.
- Cast your vote for the direction you want the car to travel, or choose to honk the horn or change the radio station.
- Enjoy the ride!
The Future of Collaborative Online Experiences
Internet Roadtrip offers a glimpse into the future of collaborative online experiences. As technology continues to evolve, we can expect to see more innovative ways for people to connect, explore, and create together in the digital realm. Games like Internet Roadtrip demonstrate the power of collective participation and the potential for shared virtual experiences to foster community and connection.
Conclusion
Internet Roadtrip is more than just a game; it's a social experiment, a virtual adventure, and a testament to the power of online communities. So, buckle up, join the ride, and discover the world with thousands of strangers on this unique and captivating virtual road trip.
