Other articles

  1. "Brick by Virtual Brick: Exploring BuildTheEarth"

    Abstract

    Launched in 2020, BTE brings together amateur and experienced builders who use real-world data, personal memories, and local knowledge to rebuild the world block by block. In doing so, the project becomes a form of digital storytelling; a way for people to document their surroundings, histories, and cultures through interactive, community-driven design. While BTE’s scope is impressive, the project is not without its challenges—its fragmented team structure can make collaboration difficult, onboarding is far from intuitive, and its reliance on volunteer builders raises questions about sustainability. Even so, BTE offers a fascinating look at how virtual spaces can hold human stories, making it a unique and ambitious attempt to archive the world through play.

    Author(s)

    Iain Graham

    Issue

    Issue 3

    Tags

    digital storytelling blog archive game mapping community digital culture open access
    Published: Sat 22 November 2025
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