Lexis-Numerique is Developing What Could be the Craziest Transmedia Experience Yet

Lexis-Numerique, the guys behind the incredibly interesting Missing: Since January, are currently preparing to launch what I can only describe as the most ambitious ARG/transmedia interactive experience I've ever heard of. Before I sound like I'm already over-hyping it, there's no indication that they're going to pull it off as well as they hope to. On the other hand, if they do, it will be awesome.

Their first two games, Missing: Since January and its sequel Evidence: The Last Ritual (In Memoriam 1 & 2 for those outside the US), extended far beyond the usual limitations of video game storytelling. And by limitations, I don't mean graphics or controls, I mean the actual game itself. The first game had you tracking down Jack Lorski and Karen Volker, who went missing after investigating a series of murders.

Gameplay involved players researching on their own to uncover clues in real-world events and places, finding and navigating "fake" websites, and even receiving phone messages from characters in the game. It managed to blur the line between the game world and the real, and at times, definitely crossed into ARG territory, albeit without other players.

Lexis-Numerique's next project is significantly more ambitious, which let's face it, is pretty impressive right off the bat. It's called  Alt-Minds, and will have players helping a fictional foundation track down five missing scientists. Players can participate in the "game" using their PC or Mac, as well as through various mobile apps. There will also be a non-interactive component, including a web series that will launch the experience on November 5.

The entire thing will last a total of eight weeks, and will all be run in "real-time." "The investigation will happen in real time, hour by hour, minute by minute. The missions you can take part in happen in a limited time frame," explains  Lexis-Numerique. If you're worried you'll fall behind, there will also be an optional "catch-up" mode that will let you play through old content.

Check out the first teaser below, and join us on November 5 as we dive into this mystery. There are no words to describe how badly I want this to work.