Pippin Barr, a renowned underground video game developer, has once again pushed the boundaries of interactive art with his latest release, "It's As If You Were On Your Phone" (IAIYWOYP). Known for his thought-provoking and unconventional games, Barr's new project delves into a surreal near-future where societal pressure to appear engaged with your phone, yet not actually using it, is omnipresent.
In IAIYWOYP, players find themselves navigating this bizarre world by completing prompts and mimicking phone usage. The game challenges players to act as if they are on their phone, engaging in actions like stretching their necks or dragging virtual objects across the screen. This setup creates a unique and somewhat unsettling experience, reflecting on the pervasive influence of technology in our lives.
While the gameplay itself might not offer traditional entertainment, IAIYWOYP stands out as a powerful artistic statement. It goes beyond the common narrative of "phones are bad" to explore deeper themes of conformity and the pressures of modern society. The game invites players to reflect on their own relationship with technology and the societal expectations surrounding it.
**It's aaaart!!!**
Whether you should play IAIYWOYP depends on your openness to experimental gaming. If you're willing to engage with its message and explore its artistic intent, you might find it a rewarding experience. Pippin Barr's previous works have often been worth trying for the unique experiences they offer, and IAIYWOYP is no exception. It prompts players to ponder not only what the game is saying but also what it reveals about themselves.
For those seeking a more conventional gaming experience, you might want to check out our list of the top five new mobile games to try this week.