THE CORRIDOR

by Thomas Mackinnon

The Developer Says...

THE CORRIDOR is a 20-30 minute experience about the relationship between player and game.

Players Like...

❤ The Gameplay Loop: Pushing the Button

At the heart of the experience lies a delightfully simple gameplay loop - the player walks down a corridor and presses a large, orange button. This basic interaction forms the entirety of the player's objectives, seemingly offering little in the way of depth or complexity.

❤ Narrative Agency and the Narrator's Influence

However, the minimalist gameplay is elevated by the game's robust narrative elements. A disembodied narrator constantly addresses the player, providing instructions, commentary, and even attempts to undermine the player's actions. This creates an engaging back-and-forth dynamic, as the player's choices directly influence the narrator's responses in unexpected ways.

❤ Incremental Complexity and Change

As the player progresses, the game gradually introduces new layers of complexity. The corridor itself may physically transform, the button's functionality may shift, and the narrator's attitude can fluctuate dramatically between cooperation, frustration, and outright hostility. These incremental changes encourage the player to continually experiment, ensuring the experience feels fresh and unpredictable.

❤ Metafictional Exploration of Player Agency

Ultimately, the game's true strength lies in its deep exploration of the player-game relationship. The narrator's attempts to control the player's behavior speak to broader questions about agency, choice, and the nature of gameplay itself. This metafictional approach elevates the simple button-pressing into a thought-provoking meditation on the medium.

❤ Replayability and Secrets

While a single playthrough lasts around 20-30 minutes, the game's branching narrative and hidden achievements provide ample incentive for multiple playthroughs. Uncovering all of the game's secrets and endings offers an additional layer of engagement for completionist players.

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