What was the name of the 2011 Portal 2 ARG?

The 2011 alternate reality game (ARG) that captivated fans in the lead-up to Portal 2's release was known as the "Potato Sack." This unique promotional event was a collaborative effort between Valve and the developers of thirteen independent video games, designed to build hype and engage the gaming community. It began on April 1, 2011, with the release of a Steam bundle featuring these indie titles, offered at a significant discount.

The name "Potato Sack" was a clever nod to a key plot point in Portal 2, where the antagonist GLaDOS finds herself powered by a potato battery. The ARG itself involved players delving into updates of the thirteen bundled games, searching for and solving a variety of interconnected puzzles. These puzzles were often themed around GLaDOS and the Portal universe, requiring collective effort from the community to decipher clues hidden within the games.

The ultimate goal of the "Potato Sack" ARG was to "power up" GLaDOS, and successfully solving the puzzles within these indie games accelerated the release of Portal 2. This innovative approach allowed players to collectively unlock the highly anticipated sequel approximately ten hours earlier than its scheduled launch on April 19, 2011. Beyond generating immense excitement for Portal 2, the ARG also served as a significant platform for the independent games involved, boosting their sales and visibility.

The "Potato Sack" is remembered as a groundbreaking example of cross-game promotion and community-driven marketing in the video game industry. It not only deepened the lore of the Portal universe but also showcased Valve's commitment to supporting indie developers, creating a memorable and engaging experience for thousands of players.