34 Facts About Papers, Please (Video Game)

What is Papers, Please?

"Papers, Please" is a unique indie game that puts players in the shoes of an immigration officer in the fictional country of Arstotzka. The game is known for its gripping narrative, moral dilemmas, and retro graphics. Here are some fascinating facts about this critically acclaimed game.

Development and Release

The creation and launch of "Papers, Please" have some interesting stories behind them.

1. Lucas Pope: The game was developed by Lucas Pope, a former Naughty Dog developer who worked on the "Uncharted" series.
2. Inspiration: Pope got the idea for the game while dealing with the tedious process of filling out paperwork for his own travels.
3. Release Date: "Papers, Please" was officially released on August 8, 2013.
4. Platforms: Initially available on Windows and OS X, it later expanded to Linux, iOS, and PlayStation Vita.

Gameplay Mechanics

The gameplay of "Papers, Please" is both simple and complex, requiring players to make quick decisions based on various documents.

5. Document Checking: Players must check passports, visas, and other documents for discrepancies.
6. Time Management: Each in-game day is timed, adding pressure to process as many entrants as possible.
7. Moral Choices: Players face moral dilemmas, such as deciding whether to let in a desperate refugee or follow strict government orders.
8. Endings: The game has 20 different endings based on the player's choices.

Setting and Story

The fictional world of Arstotzka is rich with history and intrigue.

9. Arstotzka: The game is set in the fictional Eastern Bloc country of Arstotzka.
10. Cold War Influence: The setting and atmosphere are heavily influenced by Cold War-era Eastern Europe.
11. Political Intrigue: The storyline involves political intrigue, espionage, and resistance movements.
12. Family Matters: Players must also manage their in-game family's well-being, balancing income and expenses.

Awards and Recognition

"Papers, Please" has received numerous accolades for its innovative design and storytelling.

13. BAFTA Awards: The game won the BAFTA Games Award for Strategy and Simulation in 2014.
14. IndieCade: It received the Grand Jury Award at IndieCade 2013.
15. Independent Games Festival: The game won the Seumas McNally Grand Prize at the 2014 Independent Games Festival.
16. Critical Acclaim: It holds a Metacritic score of 85, indicating generally favorable reviews.

Cultural Impact

The game has left a lasting impact on both players and the gaming industry.

17. Educational Use: Some educators use the game to teach about ethics, decision-making, and the complexities of immigration.
18. Fan Art: The game has inspired a significant amount of fan art and fan fiction.
19. Short Film: A short film adaptation of the game was released in 2018.
20. Memes: The game's catchphrase "Glory to Arstotzka!" has become a popular meme.

Interesting Tidbits

Here are some lesser-known facts that add to the game's charm.

21. Soundtrack: The game's soundtrack, composed by Lucas Pope, adds to its immersive atmosphere.
22. Easter Eggs: There are several Easter eggs, including references to other indie games.
23. Speedruns: The game has a dedicated speedrunning community.
24. Modding: Fans have created mods to add new features and challenges to the game.
25. Language Options: The game is available in multiple languages, including Russian and Japanese.

Player Experience

The game offers a unique experience that keeps players coming back.

26. Replayability: With 20 different endings, the game has high replay value.
27. Emotional Impact: Many players report feeling emotionally affected by the game's moral choices.
28. Community: The game has a strong online community where players share tips and stories.
29. Let's Plays: Numerous YouTubers and streamers have played the game, further boosting its popularity.
30. Cosplay: Some fans even cosplay as characters from the game at conventions.

Legacy and Future

"Papers, Please" continues to influence new games and remains relevant years after its release.

31. Influence: The game has influenced other titles like "Not Tonight" and "Beholder."
32. Sequel: While there is no official sequel, Lucas Pope has hinted at the possibility of future projects in the same universe.
33. Documentaries: The game has been featured in several documentaries about indie game development.
34. Longevity: Even years after its release, "Papers, Please" remains a beloved and frequently discussed game.

The Final Stamp

"Papers, Please" isn't just a game; it's a gripping experience that challenges your moral compass. With its unique blend of storytelling, gameplay, and ethical dilemmas, it stands out in the gaming world. Players find themselves deeply immersed in the life of an immigration officer, making tough decisions that impact the lives of many.

The game's retro graphics and soundtrack add to its charm, creating an atmosphere that feels both nostalgic and intense. Its success and critical acclaim highlight the power of indie games to deliver profound messages and memorable experiences.

Whether you're a seasoned gamer or new to the scene, "Papers, Please" offers something truly special. It's a testament to how video games can be more than just entertainment; they can be thought-provoking and emotionally engaging. So, if you haven't played it yet, give it a try. You won't regret it.