Generative Art Timeline · Chapter 7: Net Era (1990s)

1993

Second Reality Demo Released by Future Crew at Assembly 93

Artwork · Top Moment

A low-polygon flying object moves between tall purple blocks over green ground.
Future Crew, Second Reality, 1993; a frame from the PC demo. Future Crew; original demo screenshot preserved by Pouët Image source.

At Assembly 93 in July 1993, Future Crew debuted Second Reality, a significant demo showcasing cutting-edge 2D and 3D computer graphics rendering. It captivated audiences for 16 minutes and 19 seconds with its synchronized visuals and Skaven and Purple Motion’s techno soundtrack. The demo, which was released to the public in October 1993, became legendary, being hailed as one of the best creations of the early 1990s PC demo scene. Its innovative techniques, such as real-time mesh deformation and ray tracing, cemented its place as a generative art landmark, inspiring countless remixes and leaving an indelible imprint on digital creativity incorporating generativity.

Text by Peter Bauman. Generative Art Timeline, Le Random, fact-checked September 2026.

Sources

People

Purple Motion, Skaven

Movements

Demoscene

Filed under

Ideas
Demoscene, generative art
Technologies
computer graphics, ray tracing, real-time rendering
People
Purple Motion, Skaven
Works
Second Reality
Organisations
Assembly Party, Future Crew, October

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