Why Papers, Please Stands Out: Lessons in Narrative and Progression Game Design

Papers, Please serves as a fascinating case study in game design. This niche indie game has inspired numerous developers to replicate the visceral experience it delivers. The game tasks players with operating a border control booth, where they earn money for each correctly processed entrant and face heavy penalties for mistakes. While the core gameplay is simple—spotting discrepancies in documentation—the game’s brilliance lies in its surrounding design decisions.

Papers, Please - Courtesy of papersplea.se

Narrative Depth

The game's narrative context significantly enhances the gameplay.

Setting Papers, Please is set in a cold, harsh, Soviet-inspired country. The work environment and the people you serve all reflect hardship and entropy. As the player, you are the barrier between these people and what they hope is a better life. This setting amplifies the weight of each decision you make.

Player Character The character you play has dual responsibilities: ensuring only those with correct documentation enter the country and looking after their own family. At the end of each day, the money earned must be allocated to various household needs to keep the family alive. The pressure to perform well is compounded by the severe penalties for mistakes, elevating the stakes of each decision.

Papers, Please Finances Page - Courtesy of Papers, Please Wiki

Progression

The game’s progression is meticulously paced to maintain player engagement.

Mechanics Each day introduces new challenges. For example, you might receive a directive to scan for hidden weapons, adding another layer to the decision-making process. The gradual introduction of new mechanics keeps the gameplay fresh and challenging.

People and Money As the game progresses, the number of people trying to enter the country increases, adding pressure. More critically, the cost of maintaining your family rises, creating a constant need to perform well. This progression tied to the narrative context heightens the player's sense of urgency and responsibility.

Conclusion

Papers, Please excels in marrying narrative and progression to create a cohesive and compelling experience. These elements are often overlooked or mishandled in games attempting to emulate its success. By thoughtfully integrating narrative context and carefully pacing progression, Papers, Please delivers a unique and enduring gameplay experience.

For game designers, considering how narrative and progression can enhance your project is crucial. These elements, when executed with care, can significantly elevate the quality and impact of your game.

Thanks for reading, and keep on keeping on!