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Reflecting On My Player Type

 

    I consider myself someone who really enjoys games but does not usually have time to play, so I was really excited to find out that we would get to play some games for class! Choosing 2 mentor games out of the 8 offered was difficult but I ultimately decided to choose the two that I have seen around the gaming space for years but never had a chance to try; Portal and Papers, Please. 

In Portal, you play as, Chell, while you go through various puzzle-like challenges in a building known as Aperture Laboratories. Your main tool for navigating each puzzle is a portal gun that can be used to jump from place to place as you are guided by an AI called GLaDOS (genetic lifeform and disk operating system. 

Part of what drew me to this game was its cult-like following. I have heard about it for years (the game came out in 2007) and only hear good things. I also love a good puzzle game! This game definitely aligns with my gamer motivation profile as it contains great narrative elements as well as task completion. While I typically prefer games that are a bit slower paced, this game is not overwhelming so it is still a good fit. For me, the fact that the game is not timed and you are allowed to try out as many solutions as needed is really helpful and is what kept me playing vs other games where I become too frustrated and end up quitting. 

Papers, Please takes place in the communist country of "Arstotzka. You (the player) take on the role of an immigration officer on the border between Arstotska and Kolechia, reviewing people's documents and deciding whether or not to approve their entry to the country. It is important to compare the information on their documents with the rules set by the government, however, you must work quickly. You will inevitably run into people seeking asylum and will need to make tough choices to let them in or turn them away. The game is more thought provoking than anything and explores themes like ethics, empathy, morality, etc. 

This is another game with great reviews that I have heard about for a long time. This game is a great fit with my gamer motivation profile with its narrative and task completion elements. Interestingly, the profile predicts 2 of my lesser motivations as power and challenge, both of which I believe are part of this game but I do not think will deter me from playing and enjoying! 




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