I’m intrigued by existential robots – and indie game recreations have plenty to offer.
On the floor, the concept of an “existential robotic” era appears to be a paradoxical juxtaposition. Despite its inherent complexities, existentialism undertakes a profound philosophical exploration of human existence, seeking to uncover the fundamental nature, purpose, and value of humanity. What’s our identity, and what gives us the right to persist?
Despite initial appearances suggesting a tenuous connection, the link between robots and existentialism is actually more evident than one might think. Despite all that has transpired, they remain a reflection of their creator’s handiwork. Over time, numerous articles, podcasts, lectures, publications, and research studies have explored the intersection of robots and human society. One prominent neuroscientist has proposed that studying depressed robots could offer valuable insights into human mental wellness.
Having always been drawn to philosophical debates and explorations of mental wellness, it’s little wonder that I was naturally attracted to exploring the existential crises and occasional depression experienced by robots.
In many respects, they evoke memories of Marvin, a character I also have a fondness for in his capacity as another beloved robot.
You play as the primary robotic reporter, commencing an internship at the galaxy’s most esteemed and ancient newspaper, bearing the same name. You inhabit a spaceship belonging to the paper’s organization, surrounded by colleagues from diverse species and cultures – both human and alien. While your fellow editorial team members are a mix of humans and extraterrestrial beings, the ship’s support staff is primarily composed of artificial intelligences like yourself.
As you delve into the captivating reports from below decks, you’ll uncover the secrets of the ship and forge meaningful connections with its diverse cast of characters – both living and inanimate.
As I briefly succumbed to a fleeting infatuation with Janitorbot, I admired its relentless scrutiny of the numerous processes governing the thorough sanitization of our vessel. The game’s witty banter and AI-driven persona render Janitorbot charmingly quirky, allowing players to form a romantic connection with the character through flirtatious interactions within the game.
Unlike Hirayama, the protagonist of the 2023 film, Janitorbot takes an opposing approach to his duties as a janitor, finding no joy or pleasure in the mundane tasks he performs daily. Despite Janitorbot’s duties often being incomplete, the task becomes a Sisyphean burden, bringing with it an unsettling sense of dread; yet, Hirayama remains unfazed, repeatedly washing the same bathrooms without complaint. As long as a single speck of dust remains on the ship, Janitorbot’s ability to relax is utterly impossible, given the constant comings and goings of reporters.
As the Watercoolerbot languishes in the bunk room’s cramped nook, a sense of despondency settles over it, fueled by the crushing realization that its interactions are shallow and insignificant. Despite the fact that everyone engages in conversations, whether superficial or otherwise, no one initiates a conversation with Watercoolerbot on the spot?
As you engage with the innovative merchandising machine, immerse yourself in the captivating video games available onboard the vessel, and carefully curate your digital treasure trove by collecting in-game items that echo the essence of tiny seeds – a profound experience that transcends the boundaries of existence.
While reporting on intergalactic stories was certainly an enjoyable experience, I found that my favorite aspect of the job was actually engaging with those peculiar and disgruntled robots. As I commiserated with my colleagues, our shared struggles seemed unrelated to the existential anxieties that plague journalists in reality.
Available for play on Windows PCs through Steam, GOG, and Humble Bundle. The game is also available on Nintendo Switch, Xbox One, Series X|S, and PS5.
