If you’ve enjoyed being plunged into a world of ethical dilemmas and challenging puzzles in Papers, Please, you’re probably seeking similar games to satisfy your hunger for rich narratives and complex decision-making.
Here is a curated list of games that might just give you the same kind of thrill and emotional involvement.
Return of the Obra Dinn
In Return of the Obra Dinn, players find themselves in the role of an insurance investigator for the East India Company. The titular ship has washed up, to everyone’s surprise, devoid of crew yet seemingly undamaged. Your task is to figure out what happened. Using the mysterious Memento Mortem artifact, you can access scenes of a person’s death, giving you snippets of the story that you need to unravel.
This game shares Papers, Please’s theme of piecing together stories based on limited information. The monochrome art and unique gameplay mechanics establish an immersive and captivating environment that’s sure to keep you hooked.
As you step onto the abandoned ship, a sense of mystery and intrigue fills the air. The once bustling vessel now stands as a ghostly reminder of the lives that were lost. The creaking of the wooden planks beneath your feet echoes through the empty halls, as if the ship itself is whispering its secrets to you.
With each scene of death you uncover, the puzzle pieces start to come together. The Memento Mortem artifact allows you to witness the final moments of each crew member’s life, transporting you back in time to a world filled with danger and uncertainty. You can almost feel the tension in the air as you watch the events unfold, your heart racing with anticipation as you try to make sense of the chaos.
Return of the Obra Dinn is a game that challenges you to think outside the box, to question everything and everyone. It’s a game that rewards curiosity and attention to detail, where every clue matters and every decision counts. Are you ready to step into the shoes of an insurance investigator and unravel the mystery of the Obra Dinn?
Orwell
Orwell is a thought-provoking and immersive game that plunges players into the depths of a dystopian surveillance state. In this unnerving scenario, you will assume the role of an operative within the Orwellian system, where your primary objective is to investigate the lives of the citizens under constant scrutiny.
As you delve deeper into the game, you will find yourself sifting through the vast digital footprints left behind by these individuals. Every detail matters as you meticulously analyze their online activities, personal messages, and social media interactions. With each piece of information you uncover, you will draw conclusions about their lives, relationships, and potential threats to the state.
Like Papers, Please, Orwell places a heavy emphasis on decision-making under uncertainty. The choices you face are rarely straightforward, and the consequences of your actions may not always be immediately apparent. This constant sense of uncertainty adds a layer of tension and suspense to the gameplay, keeping you on edge as you navigate the complex web of surveillance and personal privacy.
As you progress through the game, you will find yourself wrestling with the moral implications of your actions. Are you merely a pawn in a larger system, or do you have the power to challenge the status quo? Can you maintain your integrity in the face of mounting pressure to conform?
Beholder
Beholder is a captivating game that delves into the unsettling world of surveillance. Set in a dystopian society, the game takes a unique twist by casting you as a landlord who must spy on your tenants. As you navigate the delicate balance between generating income and maintaining relationships, you also bear the responsibility of reporting any suspicious or illegal activities to the government.
Immersing players in a morally ambiguous environment, Beholder challenges them to confront their own ethical boundaries. The game prompts deep introspection, forcing players to question the consequences of their actions and the ethical implications of living in a society where privacy is a luxury of the past.
The concept of surveillance is at the core of Beholder, highlighting the ever-present scrutiny that permeates every aspect of the game. The tenants’ lives are laid bare before your watchful eyes, their every move subject to your scrutiny. This constant surveillance creates a tension-filled atmosphere, as players must decide when to intervene and when to remain silent.
Beholder is a game that challenges players to confront the moral complexities of a surveillance society. It serves as a stark reminder of the potential consequences of unchecked power and the importance of individual agency in the face of oppressive systems.
The Westport Independent
Set as an editor in a post-war setting, The Westport Independent gives players the ability to censor articles and manipulate public opinion. However, your actions in shaping the newspaper have far-reaching consequences which can either unify or divide the city.
As you step into the role of an editor, you find yourself immersed in a city still reeling from the aftermath of a devastating war. The scars of conflict are visible everywhere you look – crumbling buildings, shattered lives, and a population desperate for stability and hope. The Westport Independent becomes not just a newspaper, but a beacon of truth, a source of information, and a platform for the voices of the people.
Every day, you face the daunting task of deciding which stories to publish and which to suppress. The weight of responsibility rests heavily on your shoulders as you navigate the delicate balance between truth and manipulation. The power to shape public opinion lies at your fingertips, and the consequences of your choices ripple through the city.
Your choices will shape not only the stories that make it to print but also the very fabric of the city. Will you use your power to unite a divided community or exploit it for personal gain? The fate of Westport is in your hands.
Not Tonight
Not Tonight stands out with its blend of time management and strategic decision-making. Players step into the shoes of a bouncer in a dystopian post-Brexit UK, where your responsibilities include checking IDs and maintaining order at various clubs around the city.
In line with the theme of Papers, Please, Not Tonight confronts players with ethical predicaments and choice-based outcomes, all wrapped up in a setting that leaves a lasting impression.
This War of Mine
In contrast to typical war games, This War of Mine focuses on the civilian side of conflict. The challenge is not just to survive against the odds, but also to retain humanity in the face of desperate circumstances.
Just like Papers, Please, this game exposes players to moral dilemmas and the raw impact of their choices on the game’s characters, making for an emotionally-charged experience.
Cart Life
Cart Life offers a unique glimpse into the lives of street vendors, challenging players to manage daily routines and personal lives while running a business. This game presents an engaging and realistic portrayal of the struggles that these vendors go through.
The game embraces a similar concept to Papers, Please in terms of challenging gameplay and a narrative that pushes the boundaries of storytelling in video games.
Her Story
Riding on the interactive movie genre, Her Story features a woman being interviewed by the police about her missing husband. Players need to watch and analyze snippets of video footage to piece together the truth.
Sharing the theme of investigation and discovery with Papers, Please, Her Story takes a refreshing approach to narrative storytelling that’s sure to engage players for hours on end.
Do Not Feed the Monkeys
Do Not Feed the Monkeys lets players oversee a collection of live surveillance feeds. As a member of an obscure ‘wildlife observer club’, your goal is to observe but not interact – a directive that’s easier said than done when the lives of those you watch stir your empathy.
Along the lines of Papers, Please, the game challenges players with ethical decisions and grappling with guilt, leaving players contemplating their choices long after walking away from the game.
Neo Cab
First on the list is none other than Neo Cab. Emphasizing human empathy and connection, Neo Cab introduces you to an intriguing cyberpunk world where you play as one of the last human drivers in a nearly automated city. Your role is to maneuver your way through emotionally charged stories as you keep your job and sanity intact.
In Neo Cab, the city is a sprawling metropolis, its neon lights casting an ethereal glow upon the streets. As you navigate through the city’s labyrinthine roads, you witness the hustle and bustle of automated vehicles whizzing by, their cold efficiency contrasting with your human presence behind the wheel.
Each passenger you encounter has their own unique story to tell. From the heartbroken artist seeking solace in the night to the enigmatic corporate executive harboring a dangerous secret, every interaction is a glimpse into the lives of those who inhabit this futuristic world.
The game beautifully incorporates the Papers, Please mechanic of decision making, with each decision affecting your passengers’ moods and the overall city narrative. As you weigh the consequences of your choices, you find yourself caught in a delicate balancing act, trying to maintain both your livelihood and your humanity.
With its captivating storytelling and thought-provoking themes, Neo Cab is a must-play for anyone seeking a truly immersive and intellectually stimulating gaming experience.
The Shrouded Isle
Step into the role of high priest in The Shrouded Isle, a management sim game that tasks you with pleasing the gods by making sacrifices. In this dark and atmospheric game, you will find yourself immersed in a world where the line between right and wrong is blurred, and the consequences of your decisions weigh heavily on your conscience.
As you delve deeper into The Shrouded Isle, you will be captivated by its unique monochrome art style. The black and white visuals create a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, adding to the sense of unease and mystery that permeates the game.
The intricate details of the environment, from the ornate architecture to the flickering candlelight, will draw you further into the dark and enigmatic world of the high priest.
Similar to Papers, Please, The Shrouded Isle employs resource management mechanics to ramp up tension and simulate the pressures of being a morally ambiguous authority figure. Every decision you make carries weight, and the consequences of your actions will have far-reaching effects on both the people of the island and your own standing among the noble families.
Prepare yourself for a gripping and thought-provoking experience in The Shrouded Isle. With its eerie atmosphere, difficult choices, and intricate gameplay mechanics, this game will keep you on edge as you navigate the treacherous waters of religious devotion and political intrigue.
Headliner: NoviNews
Up next is Headliner: NoviNews, a game that tackles the conundrums of media ethics and fake news. As the head of a national news channel, the power to steer public opinion lies in your hands. It’s a game that beautifully illustrates the impact of your decisions on the world around you.
But what exactly does it mean to be the head of a national news channel? Well, in Headliner: NoviNews, you’ll find yourself making tough choices every day. You’ll have to decide which stories to cover, which ones to prioritize, and how to present them to the public. It’s not just about reporting the news, but also about shaping it.
As you navigate through the game, you’ll encounter various ethical dilemmas. For example, do you choose to report on a scandal involving a high-profile politician, even if the evidence is shaky? Or do you prioritize stories that highlight positive social change, even if they might not attract as much attention? These decisions will have consequences, not only for your career but also for the society you live in.
Similar to the mechanics of Papers, Please, Headliner: NoviNews challenges you to balance your personal life, professional life, and public sentiment. It’s not just about making the right choices for your news channel, but also about maintaining your own well-being. The pressure of constantly being in the public eye can take a toll on your mental health, and you’ll have to find ways to cope with the stress.
Headliner: NoviNews is a thought-provoking game that will make you question the role of media in society and the impact of your own decisions on the world around you.
Va-11 Hall-A: Cyberpunk Bartender Action
Step into the captivating world of Va-11 Hall-A, a mesmerizing dystopian cyberpunk city where you take on the pivotal role of a bartender. But this is not just any ordinary bartending gig; it is an opportunity to immerse yourself in a profound social and psychological exploration of the lives of the city’s inhabitants.
As you mix and serve drinks, you become a catalyst for the unfolding stories and emotions of the diverse cast of characters that frequent your bar. Each interaction presents an opportunity to delve deeper into the intricate web of their lives, uncovering their hopes, dreams, and struggles.
Va-11 Hall-A, much like Papers, Please, delves into profound themes of humanity, compassion, and the consequences of our actions. It challenges the player to navigate the complexities of a society on the brink of collapse, where every decision made behind the bar has far-reaching consequences.
But what sets Va-11 Hall-A apart is its unique twist on gameplay elements. The aftermath of each cocktail you concoct is not just a fleeting moment of satisfaction for the customer; it is a window into their world. The drink you serve may lift their spirits, emboldening them to face their fears, or it may exacerbate their troubles, sending them spiraling into despair.
With each sip, the customers’ reactions become a canvas for the consequences of your mixology skills. Will your carefully crafted concoctions create moments of joy and connection, or will they unearth buried emotions and ignite unexpected conflicts?
Prepare to be captivated by the rich tapestry of stories that unfold within the neon-lit walls of Va-11 Hall-A. Your role as a bartender extends far beyond pouring drinks; it is a journey of self-discovery, empathy, and the power of human connection in a world teetering on the edge.
Bury me, my Love
Based on true stories, Bury me, my Love follows the dangerous journey of Nour, a Syrian woman trying to reach Europe. Playing as her husband Majd, you’re responsible for guiding her, affecting her journey based on the advice you give.
There’s a palpable sense of tension and responsibility, much like in Papers, Please. Whether Nour can successfully reach her destination is entirely up to you, making the stakes feel very real.
Reigns
Reigns puts you in the shoes of a medieval king, dealing with the demands of the kingdom and its advisors. Surviving requirs deft decision-making skills to balance the competing demands of the church, people, army and treasury.
Not unlike Papers, Please, the game offers an array of complex decisions that weigh on your conscience and shape the trajectory of your reign. The journey through the throne’s successes and failures guarantees a fascinating gaming experience.
A Mortician’s Tale
A Mortician’s Tale welcomes players to a unique perspective of life – its end. As a mortician, your job is not only to prepare bodies but also comfort the grieving loved ones, providing a meaningful experience around death and mortality.
Much like Papers, Please, it tests your sensibility whilst dealing with sensitive subjects, and pushes you to ponder upon the unavoidable end, making it an emotional rollercoaster of a game.
Lapse: A Forgotten Future
If surviving in a post-apocalyptic scenario feels thrilling, Lapse: A Forgotten Future should be your next gaming adventure. Here, you rule over a crumbling civilization, deciding its fate by swiping right or left on your screen.
This game replicates the increasing pressure that Papers, Please is famed for. Balancing your kingdom’s resources while keeping internal and external threats at bay offers a challenging and gripping gameplay experience.
Lucifer Within Us
Enter the world of Lucifer Within Us, where you play as a digital exorcist. Your job is to uncover and remove the demonic influences that are causing mayhem in the virtual world.
The game shares the detective elements of Papers, Please and adds a depth of intricate decision-making. Your detective skills are put to the limit as you are chalenged to resolve the mystery of demonic possession.
Foot of the Mountain
Last but not least, Foot of the Mountain. This visual novel game provides a slice-of-life experience where your daily decisions shape the ongoing narrative. Interactions are real-time and progress even as you’re not playing, making it a vivid depiction of life.
In the mold of Papers, Please, it offers the opportunity to manage your time and resources while navigating through a multitude of intertwining stories. Every action you take has an impact, making choices matter significantly in this engaging game.
Eliza
Eliza is a visual narrative game that delves into the realm of personal subjects such as mental health. Enigma-machine Eliza uses an AI to simulate a counselling experience. This game poses intelligent and profound questions regarding ethics and the future of AI. It also points a mirror at society, forcing players to reflect on their own reality.
The mechanic of the game is quite straightforward; the player follows a script and responds to patients. However, it’s not as simple as it sounds. The game constantly forces the player to evaluate their own morality and sense of judgment. This deeply introspective narrative journey is bound to keep you hooked until the very end.
As you navigate through the virtual world of Eliza, you are immediately captivated by its stunning visuals. The game designers have painstakingly created intricate environments that reflect the emotional states of the characters you encounter. From the dimly lit waiting room, with its worn-out chairs and flickering fluorescent lights, to the serene and peaceful therapy room adorned with calming artwork, every detail has been meticulously crafted to immerse you in the experience.
Through its engaging gameplay and thought-provoking narrative, Eliza leaves a lasting impact, challenging players to not only reflect on the game itself but also on their own lives and the society they inhabit.
Conclusion
Games like “Papers, Please” aren’t just fun; they also make us see the world differently. The ones we’ve picked are not just about playing but also about thinking and making choices. Get ready for some games that are both fun and deep.
