In 2017, a video game called "Everything" was released by the game developer David O'Reilly. The game is a simulation of the universe, in which players can control any object, from a single atom to an entire galaxy. The game's soundtrack features the voice of Alan Watts, who delivers a series of lectures on the interconnectedness of all things and the nature of reality.

The game's connection to Zen philosophy and Alan Watts is clear. The game's mechanics encourage players to explore the idea of interdependence and non-duality by allowing them to embody any object in the universe. The game's soundtrack, which features Watts' lectures, reinforces these themes and helps to create a meditative atmosphere.

Zen is a philosophy that originated in China and later spread to Japan, where it evolved into a unique form of Buddhism. It emphasizes the importance of mindfulness, meditation, and living in the present moment. Alan Watts was a British philosopher who popularized Zen in the West during the 1950s and 1960s through his writings and lectures. Watts saw Zen as a way of life that could help people find inner peace and meaning in a world that often seemed chaotic and meaningless.

Watts was particularly interested in the concept of "emptiness" in Zen, which refers to the idea that everything in the world is interconnected and interdependent. This idea is closely related to the concept of "non-duality," which suggests that there is no fundamental separation between the self and the world. Watts saw this perspective as a way of breaking down the illusion of ego and opening up the possibility for a more expansive and compassionate way of being in the world.

For many players, "Everything" has become a form of interactive meditation, allowing them to experience Zen concepts in a new and immersive way. The game encourages players to let go of their ego and embrace a more expansive view of the world, one in which everything is connected and nothing is truly separate. This perspective can be both humbling and liberating, as it invites players to see themselves as part of a larger cosmic whole.

This is due in large part to the game's emphasis on mindfulness and the present moment. In the game, players are encouraged to simply explore the universe and interact with its various objects without any specific goals or objectives. This creates a space in which players can focus on their own thoughts and feelings, and perhaps even enter a state of flow or "zen" while playing.

One of the unique features of "Everything" is its ability to create a sense of interconnectedness between the player and the game world. This is achieved through the game's mechanics, which allow players to embody any object in the universe and see the world from its perspective. This encourages players to shift their focus away from their own ego and towards the larger system of which they are a part. This can be a powerful experience, as it allows players to see themselves as part of a larger cosmic whole, and can lead to feelings of awe, wonder, and even transcendence.

The game's soundtrack, which features the voice of Alan Watts, is also an important aspect of its meditative quality. Watts' lectures on the interconnectedness of all things and the nature of reality serve as a guiding voice throughout the game, encouraging players to stay present and engaged with the experience. The combination of the game's mechanics and soundtrack creates a powerful sense of immersion, which can help players to enter a state of deep focus and concentration.

In conclusion, Zen philosophy and Alan Watts' teachings have had a profound influence on many aspects of Western culture, including video games. "Everything" is a prime example of how these ideas can be translated into an interactive and immersive experience. The game encourages players to explore the concept of interconnectedness and non-duality in a way that is both accessible and engaging. For those seeking a new way to experience Zen, "Everything" is a game worth exploring. Ultimately, "Everything" is a game that encourages players to slow down and appreciate the beauty and interconnectedness of the world around them. By focusing on the present moment and embracing a more expansive view of reality, players can experience a sense of peace and fulfilment that is often difficult to find in the fast-paced world of modern gaming. For those seeking a new form of interactive meditation, "Everything" offers a unique and powerful experience that is well worth exploring.