Papers, Please - Mobile Version

Papers, Please: A Dystopian Puzzle of Morality and Bureaucracy

Papers, Please is a critically acclaimed indie game developed by Lucas Pope, released in 2013. Set in the fictional dystopian country of Arstotzka, the game immerses players in a unique and thought-provoking experience that combines puzzle mechanics with a deep exploration of ethics, morality, and the human cost of bureaucracy.

Gameplay and Premise

In Papers, Please, you assume the role of a border checkpoint officer in the totalitarian state of Arstotzka. Your job is to review the documents of people trying to enter the country, deciding who to let in, who to detain, and who to turn away. As simple as it may sound, the game quickly becomes a complex and morally challenging experience.



Each day, you are presented with a growing list of rules and regulations that dictate who can enter Arstotzka. These rules evolve and become more intricate as the game progresses, requiring players to meticulously check passports, visas, work permits, and other documents for discrepancies. Mistakes can lead to penalties, while successful entries are rewarded with money that you use to support your family.

The game’s mechanics are deceptively straightforward, but the real challenge lies in the decisions you must make. Do you follow the strict rules and risk turning away someone in desperate need, or do you bend the rules and face the consequences? The game forces players to constantly weigh their sense of duty against their empathy for those trying to cross the border.

A World of Moral Dilemmas

One of the most compelling aspects of Papers, Please is its exploration of moral and ethical dilemmas. As the game progresses, you encounter a variety of characters, each with their own story and motivations. Some may be smugglers or terrorists, while others are refugees fleeing persecution or simply people trying to reunite with their families.



These encounters often place you in difficult situations where there is no clear right or wrong answer. For example, you might be asked to let someone through with forged documents because they claim to be escaping a dangerous situation. However, doing so could result in your pay being docked, leaving you without enough money to take care of your own family. The game constantly pushes you to question your decisions and the impact they have on the lives of others.

Atmosphere and Aesthetic

The game’s visual style is minimalistic, with pixelated graphics that evoke a sense of cold, gray oppression fitting for its dystopian setting. The bleak atmosphere is further enhanced by the game’s soundtrack, which features droning, ominous tones that underscore the tension and gravity of each decision you make.

The setting of Arstotzka, with its rigid government and oppressive atmosphere, serves as a powerful backdrop that adds depth to the game’s narrative. The stark contrast between the faceless bureaucracy you represent and the humanity of those you interact with creates a tension that is both compelling and unsettling.

Impact and Legacy

Papers, Please has been widely praised for its innovative gameplay and its ability to tackle complex themes in a way that is both engaging and thought-provoking. It has won numerous awards and has been cited as an example of how video games can be used to explore serious and mature themes.

The game’s impact goes beyond just entertainment; it has sparked discussions about immigration, bureaucracy, and the moral responsibilities of individuals working within oppressive systems. It challenges players to think critically about their actions and the systems they participate in, making it a significant work in the world of indie gaming and beyond.

Conclusion

Papers, Please is more than just a puzzle game; it is a profound exploration of the human condition under the weight of oppressive systems. With its challenging gameplay, moral complexity, and immersive atmosphere, the game offers an experience that is both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant. Whether you’re a fan of indie games, interested in social and political themes, or simply looking for a unique gaming experience, Papers, Please is a game that leaves a lasting impression long after the border gates have closed.

Personal Comment:

I deeply loved this game, which in the end is much more than just a game. The endings are so numerous that you can play it repeatedly, or at least until it eventually becomes monotonous, of course. The sounds are simple but so relaxing that they become addictive, mostly centered around the sound of paper folding. Highly recommended.

Rating: 9/10

Papers, Please is available for download on several platforms. Here’s where you can find it:

• 
  PC and Mac
  Steam
  GOG
  Humble
  
  Mobile
  iOS - Apple Store
  Android - Play Store