news.volyx.in

It is as if you were on your phone (pippinbarr.com)

852 points by bookofjoe · 512 days ago · 132 comments on HN

Article summary

The article presents a game called 'It is as if you were on your phone', which is a speculative game about pretending to be on your phone while actually doing nothing. The game is designed to make the player look like they're on their phone, but instead, they're free to do nothing. The game was created using p5 and Hammer.js for touch gestures. The game's purpose is to provide an alternative to the pressure of constantly being on one's phone.

Main themes

  • Phone addiction
  • Social pressure
  • Meditation and mindfulness
  • Game design
  • Technology and society
  • Human behavior

What commenters say

  • The game effectively achieves its artistic aims by evoking strong emotions and reactions from players.
  • Some players find the game relaxing and darkly funny, while others hate the experience.
  • The game highlights the social pressure to constantly be on one's phone, and how pretending to do so can be a way to fit in.
  • The game's design is intentionally confusing, with some players struggling to understand how to start the game.
  • The game can be seen as a commentary on the mindless scrolling and swiping that often occurs on phones.
  • Some players appreciate the game's ability to induce a meditative state, while others find it boring or unengaging.
  • The game raises questions about the impact of technology on human behavior and society.
  • The game's purpose is to provide a commentary on the pressure to constantly be productive and connected.