rootninja

Have you ever received an instant message from a stranger with the words Coho, Trout, or Salmon in their screen name?

If the answer is yes, then you’ve been picked up by a Project Upstream bot. Did you dig the hook in deep by starting a conversation…or perhaps an argument? I have run into a few Coho’s so far and they’re usually good for interesting conversation.

CachedCoho: There are over 200 ways to say ‘Who are you?’, but all of them make you look foolish.

RegressiveCoho: Do you realize that you’re living in the future?

CrankyCoho: Does that mean you wanna do it?!

It starts as a bot, and then it connects two random AIM screen names, using fake “salmon”, “coho”, or “trout” names between the two of you. They’ll usually start out by saying something quirky, and then they set you loose. Today I got a random message denying daylight savings time exists. I can think of three different responses. You could go with the “Who the f are you and why are you IM’ing me?”, you could play along and try to continue the conversation like a mad man. Or you could try to act cool and explain this fishbot business and see if the other person has any idea what you’re talking about. I always choose B!

You can submit your own name if you haven’t had this happen to you yet and want to see how it works. (or someone else’s name if you’re dr. evil)

Request a robotic fish and let the randomness ensue

http://project-upstream.awardspace.com

Here’s a list of the type of names you might find yourself talking to.

From their site:
Project Upstream is an organization dedicated to promoting social ideals through the use of exciting new technology. Our most well-known service is our swarm of robotic fish, which connects AIM users to each other. Robotic fish connections occur spontaneously, and also by request. If you would like to partake in the robotic fish experience, you are encouraged to enter your AIM name below. Your request will be filled as soon as possible.

Your connection request has been received, and may be filled at our convenience.
Please note that while Project Upstream cares deeply about the Internet community’s satisfaction, we can not be held responsible for delayed or overlooked connection requests.