Papers, Please was originally released in 2013 and quickly made a unique spot for itself in the gaming landscape. The game is now making its way onto Android and iOS on August 5th. The mobile port will be released as a standalone app, but the price is undetermined at the moment.
After the launch of the original, the game was then ported onto the iPad in 2014 and subsequently on the PS Vita in 2017.
The news was confirmed via the developer, Lucas Pope, on Twitter. He not only confirmed that the game was coming to smartphones but also joked about how long it would take for the console release to materialize, saying it is on track for 2031.
"Papers, Please" but small. August 5th. pic.twitter.com/87o8IqfCdF
— Lucas Pope (@dukope) July 23, 2022
The idea behind the game is based on the developer’s real-life experiences. In 2013 he told The Verge:
“The concept [of Papers, Please] was inspired by frequent trips through airport immigration and the realization that inspecting documents in a game setting might be fun. Once I started mulling over the basic concepts, I felt there was good potential for interesting mechanics and encounters.”
When the indie title launched initially, it was critically acclaimed for its distinct style and its ability to leave a permanent mark on the player as it makes a practical issue so much more relatable. The biggest influencers on YouTube picked up the game quickly, giving Papers, Please the recognition it rightfully deserved.
What is Papers, Please?
In Papers, Please, you’re staffed as a border control officer in the fictional country called Arstotzka. A country that doesn’t easily let anyone travel to it for security reasons. Your job is to decide who goes and who stays, instantly tapping into your concept of morality as you juggle national security and your duty to put food on the table.
The game also got a short film live adaptation that is currently available to watch for free on YouTube. The developer is working hard to make the game feel natural to play on smartphones, and it should be fairly easy to play on Android or iOS.