"Bizarre New Desktop Mobile Release Mimics Phone Experience"

Author: Elijah Apr 17,2025

Pippin Barr, a renowned underground video game developer, has once again pushed the boundaries with his latest release, "It's As If You Were On Your Phone" (IAIYWOYP). Known for his thought-provoking and unconventional games, Barr's new project might be his most intriguing yet.

IAIYWOYP challenges players to navigate a near-future world where the societal pressure to appear disconnected from your phone while actually being on it is overwhelming. The gameplay involves completing prompts and making gestures to simulate phone use, all while pretending not to be engaged with your device. This unique concept is set in a surreal environment that amplifies the game's commentary on modern social norms and technology dependence.

While the gameplay itself might not offer traditional entertainment, IAIYWOYP stands out as a powerful artistic statement. It goes beyond the usual critique of smartphone addiction, inviting players to reflect on the pressures of conformity in a tech-saturated world. The game's prompts, such as "Stretch Your Neck Quickly," paired with interactive elements like dragging a pink ball to a designated spot, create an immersive, albeit bizarre, experience.

A gray game screen with a prompt at the top to Stretch Your Neck Quickly, while a pink ball says to drag it to a small cutout**It's aaaart!!!** Whether you should play IAIYWOYP depends on your openness to experimental gaming. If you're willing to engage with its message and explore its artistic intentions, there's a lot to gain from the experience. However, if you're seeking conventional gameplay, you might find it lacking in traditional enjoyment.

Given Pippin Barr's track record of creating memorable and thought-provoking experiences, IAIYWOYP is certainly worth a try for those interested in exploring the deeper implications of our relationship with technology. It might even prompt you to reflect on your own habits and societal expectations.

If you're in the mood for something more traditional, don't forget to check out our list of the top five new mobile games to try this week.