CHEM

CHEM, an ambitious video game concept by Christopher Lacroix, invites players on an
extraordinary journey through time, consciousness, and the interconnectedness of
existence.  Set across various historical and speculative futuristic landscapes—from
ancient Mayan civilization in 500 BCE to a high-tech vision of Johannesburg in the year
5000—the game intertwines elements of role-playing, survival, and psychedelic
exploration to delve into profound themes of spirituality, morality, and the cyclical nature
of life.

At its core, CHEM is a narrative-driven experience that emphasizes the evolution of
humanity through a series of character-driven stories. Players embody different
protagonists across various levels, such as a slave in the Mayan era who strives for
liberation; a musician navigating the tumultuous landscapes of fame and addiction in
1960s London; and a programmer facing the dark realities of addiction in 1990s New
York. Each story highlights the struggle against  systemic oppression, the consequences
of choices, and the quest for self-discovery.

One of the central themes in CHEM is the battle between individual agency and collective
experience. As each character experiences personal trials—be it slavery, addiction, or
existential crises—their journeys intersect with broader societal dynamics, emphasizing
how personal choices can ripple through time and affect entire communities. This theme
is poignantly captured through the phrase:

“Every action, no matter how small, has a
ripple effect through time.”