The Mundane Revolution: Cursed Feed and How Sims Are Reshaping Game Storytelling

In the development of our new horror game, Cursed Feed, the focus on the protagonist’s occupation sparked an intriguing question for me. It made me ponder the evolving nature of video game narratives and the expectations of players.

The current gaming landscape showcases a noticeable shift, with younger players gravitating towards simulation games that replicate everyday scenarios. These “profession simulators” consistently rank high on charts, while traditional storytelling methods struggle to capture attention.

I was taken aback by a Steam review of a “supermarket game simulator” where players assume the role of a cashier. The reviewer mentioned, “I work as a cashier at a supermarket, and then I come home in the evening to play this game.” The overlap between real-life and gaming experiences caught my attention.

Immersive Experiences vs. Escapism

What has happened to the concept of “escapism” in video games?

In literary works like Kafka’s “Metamorphosis” or Camus’s “The Stranger,” the characters’ occupations serve as mere background elements, incidental to the deeper themes of the narratives. However, in contemporary gaming, a character’s profession plays a vital role in engaging players.

The irony is not lost on me. Would today’s audience require a title like “Professional Wait Simulator 2024” to attract attention to a video game adaptation of “Waiting for Godot”? The emphasis on occupation in modern gaming is intriguing.

Life Beyond the Screen

This shift mirrors broader cultural changes, particularly among the younger demographic, often referred to as “Gen-Z.”

There is a growing interest in experiencing various aspects of life virtually. The popularity of job-focused games may indicate a desire among players to explore diverse careers and lifestyles in a low-risk virtual environment.

In Cursed Feed, the decision to portray the protagonist as a paranormal investigator was intentional. This choice goes beyond artistic creativity; it acknowledges that modern players connect with games through the lens of profession and purpose, making extraordinary elements more relatable through a job-based framework.

Does this trend signify the decline of traditional narrative approaches in gaming? Not necessarily. It suggests a shift towards a new form of storytelling and player experience. While simulation games cater to the craving for structured, profession-based gameplay, they also reveal something profound about contemporary storytelling – the mundane has become extraordinary.

Literary Heroes in a Modern World

If Kafka were writing for today’s gaming audience, would “Metamorphosis” be marketed as “Traveling Salesman Life Simulator (with Unexpected Twist)”? The thought is amusing yet reflective of the evolving storytelling landscape.

Today’s challenge for narrative designers is to blend simulation gameplay with compelling narratives. It requires an understanding of why players find comfort and engagement in everyday experiences and how to leverage that understanding to create deeper stories.

While Cursed Feed may seem like another profession-based horror game on the surface, it delves deeper into themes of family tragedy, inheritance, and the complexities of human relationships. Players may be drawn in by the ghost-hunting mechanics but will stay for the poignant story of life, death, and the enduring impact of family legacies.

As we refine Cursed Feed, these considerations drive our storytelling approach. The game aims to resonate with a generation that finds meaning in the simulation of everyday life, offering a blend of profession-based gameplay and traditional narrative themes.

Ultimately, whether through literature or games, the essence of storytelling remains rooted in the shared human experience. Embracing this evolution allows us to craft narratives that engage and resonate with players, regardless of the medium or format.