Pippin Barr, a celebrated figure in the underground video game scene, is known for crafting thought-provoking and uniquely bizarre experiences. Their latest release, "It's As If You Were On Your Phone" (IAIYWOYP), might just be their most peculiar yet. Set in a near-future where societal pressures to appear engaged with your phone without actually being on it are overwhelming, IAIYWOYP challenges players to navigate this conundrum through a series of prompts and gestures.
The game's premise is as surreal as it gets: you play by pretending to use your phone, following on-screen instructions that simulate phone activity. This setup, while perhaps not offering much in terms of traditional gameplay, serves as a powerful statement on the pressures of digital conformity. It's an artistic exploration that goes beyond the usual narrative of "phones are bad," inviting players to reflect on the broader implications of our digital habits.
**It's aaaart!!!** Whether or not you should dive into IAIYWOYP depends on your openness to unconventional gaming. If you're willing to engage with its message and explore what it might reveal about your own relationship with technology, there's a wealth of insight to be gained. Yet, given its focus on following prompts, the game might not satisfy those seeking a more conventional gaming experience.
Still, this is Pippin Barr we're discussing, and their track record suggests that even if IAIYWOYP isn't your typical game, it's worth experiencing for the unique perspective it offers. So, give it a try and ponder what it's trying to convey about the world—and yourself.
For those in search of more traditional mobile gaming, be sure to check out our list of the top five new mobile games to try this week.
