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 gestures and actions that simulate mobile device interaction. This setup creates a unique and thought-provoking experience, questioning the role of technology in our lives beyond the typical narrative of "phones are bad."
While the gameplay itself may not offer much in terms of traditional gaming elements, IAIYWOYP stands out as a powerful artistic statement. The game prompts players to reflect on the pressures of conformity and the pervasive influence of technology in our daily lives. It's a piece that invites players to consider deeper societal issues through interactive art.
**It's aaaart!!!**
Would I recommend playing IAIYWOYP? It depends on your openness to experimental gaming. If you're willing to engage with its message and explore its artistic intent, there's much to gain from the experience. However, if you're seeking traditional gameplay, you might find it lacking. Yet, given Pippin Barr's track record, IAIYWOYP is certainly worth a try for the unique perspective it offers on our relationship with technology.
For those interested in more conventional mobile gaming experiences, you can explore our list of the top five new mobile games to try this week.
