The Siren
A game that re-examines expected rules and narrative patterns
The Siren is a digital exploration that turns classic video game conventions on their head. The starting point is a heroine in shimmering armor, accompanied by an omniscient narrator, seemingly on a rescue mission. But before the adventure begins, the first task is to collect shells: a side quest that expands and sets the tone. The narrator becomes increasingly insistent, the instructions more authoritarian, until the question arises: Why do we obey at all? And what happens if we don’t? The game continues this dynamic, drawing parallels to the countless side quests in games and to our own daily rituals, which we fill with tasks, projects, and optimizations to create a sense of purpose. In doing so, The Siren also opens up a view of the narrative of romantic salvation: the idea that rescuing the ‘princess’ or finding a second half could complete our lives. However, the possible endings remain fragmentary; the game denies definitive answers. As an installation, The Siren combines accessible gameplay with cinematic sequences that create an intense experience even for viewers. It invites you to go with the flow and to question what it means to continue when the goal is lost from sight.
Mélanie Courtinat (b. 1993) is an award-winning artist and art director based in Paris. Her work includes video games, CGI images and films, as well as immersive virtual reality experiences. Her personal works, primarily developed with real-time engines, have been exhibited internationally, from the Venice Immersive Biennale to the LISTE Art Fair Basel. In addition to her artistic practice, she leads commissioned projects for luxury, fashion, and high jewelry brands, guiding them in exploring the language and aesthetics of video games and interactive media. She also collaborates closely with creatives from cultural fields such as cinema, theater, and dance, offering artistic direction and interactive design, and helping to translate each author’s vision into meaningful digital experiences. Mélanie is a regular guest lecturer in video game history and digital humanities at ECAL, and regularly gives talks, mentors, and serves on juries across Europe and North America.