Stanley Parable

Stanley Parable:

 

The opening scene of the game sets the tone for the whole plot- the gamer cannot expect to have choice. As I played the game, I realized that it is based on different endings which only contributes to the illusion of choice created.

Furthermore, as the narrator critiques that Employee 427 has the same routine everyday where he types the same letter every day. This actually mirrors what a gamer does and thus criticizes us indirectly. In addition, as we discover that everyone disappeared, we discover that complete isolation is a main theme found in the game. Furthermore, as the plot unfolds, we discover the “mind control facility” where a room is packed with television screens spying on each employer. This gives the impression that people’s lives are meaningless.

As the voice narrates all of the actions and even gives us instructions, the gamer either accepts to follow them or refuses them. It is important to note that if we follow every instruction we are rewarded with a good ending which is freedom and it is considered to be the only good ending of the game. However, if the gamer decides to refuse all of them, not only do we obtain unsatisfactory endings which mainly result in death, the voice also criticizes all of our actions. This makes the gamer uncomfortable and even brings himself in question.