In a remarkable demonstration of human ingenuity and technology, U.K. based YouTuber and Twitch streamer perrikaryal is tackling the notoriously difficult “Shadow of the Erdtree” DLC for Elden Ring using only her mind. Known for her unique hands-free gameplay approach, Perri employs an electroencephalogram (EEG) headset and eye-tracking technology to control her in-game actions.
WE DID IT
— Perri (@perrikaryal) June 22, 2024
Shadow of the Erdtree, first boss, COMPLETED with mind control, and ZERO HANDS
I can't believe it. This was the hardest thing ever. We've come SO FAR! Let's gooooooo pic.twitter.com/INrwrgOH0Y
How It Works
Perri’s setup includes a headset from Emotiv, a company specializing in EEG devices and brain-computer interface (BCI) software. With 14 electrodes attached to her scalp, the device reads her brain’s electrical activity to interpret her thoughts into game commands. She also uses EEG earbuds to capture muscle tension in her ears for specific actions and a separate eye-tracking camera to simulate mouse or joystick movements. This sophisticated setup allows her to navigate and interact with the game environment through a combination of subtle physical movements and cognitive activity.
Perri’s journey into mind-controlled gaming began during her psychology studies at university, where she was introduced to EEG technology. Although consumer-friendly versions of these headsets are expensive, they are more affordable than their clinical counterparts. Her path to mastering this technology was filled with trial and error, particularly in calibrating the headset to accurately recognize her thoughts and emotions. For instance, she discovered that mimicking tension without genuinely feeling frustrated was crucial for effective gameplay.
Levelling Up
Since her initial foray into EEG-controlled gaming, Perri has made significant improvements to her setup. Initially relying on a controller for movement, she now uses a combination of eye tracking and gyroscopic sensors, enabling a completely hands-free experience. Despite these advancements, she faces challenges with certain games, such as the fast-paced Tetris, which become exceedingly difficult with her setup.
Perri’s achievements have not only captivated audiences but also sparked skepticism. To address doubts, she maintains transparency by displaying her eye-tracking data and brain activity on-screen during her streams. Representatives from Emotiv have confirmed the feasibility and authenticity of her setup.
Beyond Gaming
Beyond showcasing her impressive gaming skills, Perri aims to raise awareness about the potential of EEG technology for accessibility in gaming. She collaborates informally with Emotiv to provide feedback that could help improve the functionality of their devices. While acknowledging the limitations and current impracticality of her setup for most people with disabilities, she hopes her work will inspire further research and development in this field.
Perri’s story is a testament to the power of determination and innovation, demonstrating that with the right tools and mindset, even the most daunting challenges can be overcome.
