Papers, Please
LumiScore
Growth
54/100
Growth Value
- Problem Solving
- Strategic Thinking
- Critical Thinking
Risk
LOW
Engagement Patterns
Minimal pressure to spend or play excessively.
Heads up
Parent Pro-Tip
Papers, Please is an excellent game for mature players who enjoy challenging puzzles and thought-provoking narratives. Parents should discuss the game's themes with their children, such as authoritarianism, immigration, and moral dilemmas. Encourage them to talk about the choices they make in the game and the real-world implications of such decisions. Due to the mature themes and potential for stress, parental guidance is recommended, and it may not be suitable for younger children.
Top Skills Developed
Development Areas
Representation?How diverse the game's characters are in gender and ethnicity. Higher = more authentic representation. Display only — does not affect time recommendation.
Bechdel Test?The Bechdel Test checks whether a game has at least two named female characters who talk to each other about something other than a man. A simple measure of representation.— Fails the test
While there are female characters, they rarely interact with each other in a meaningful way beyond transactional exchanges, and conversations primarily revolve around the male protagonist's work.
Parent Pro-Tip
This game can spark important conversations about ethics, politics, and empathy. It can help develop critical thinking, problem-solving, and decision-making skills in a unique and engaging way.
What your child develops
Papers, Please is a unique puzzle and simulation game that challenges players with complex moral dilemmas and critical thinking. Players must meticulously examine documents, apply ever-changing rules, and make difficult decisions under pressure. This fosters strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ethical reasoning. The game's narrative encourages empathy by presenting the human stories behind the documents, prompting players to consider the consequences of their choices. It also offers insights into the nature of authoritarian regimes and bureaucracy, making it a thought-provoking experience.
Regulatory Compliance
Tap a badge for details. Grey = not yet assessed.
About this game
The creator of the game often travelled through Asia and made the observation that the work of an immigration officer checking documents for entry is simultaneously very monotonous and very responsible. The game reproduces this work - but scammers and unusual situations occur in it much more often than in reality.