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Between Ego and Alter-Ego: avatars, cosplay and constructing identity

This research delves into the phenomenon known as the Proteus Effect: where the embodiment of digital avatars influences real-world behavior. Through conducting qualitative and quantitative studies with cosplayers and active gamers, investigating the aspirational qualities of game characters and their impact on identity formation. Knowledge gained through this experience will then be integrated into collaborative AI/XR workshops and tests to create an aspirational 3D character that triggers embodiment in the user. Inspiring a contemporary fashion silhouette from this design, both versions are durationally worn by the researcher across digital and physical social spaces, documenting and extending the Proteus Effect through personal experience. With findings shared via a live-streamed track report and digi-physical zine, the resulting research contributes to the discourse on identity construction in the digital-age - truly blurring the lines between the virtual and reality.

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