Do Not Feed the Monkeys is a simulation game developed by Fictiorama Studios and published by Alawar Premium. It was released in 2018 and has since gained a strong following among players who prefer immersive, story-driven games.
The game puts players in the role of members of a secret organization that is responsible for observing and documenting the lives of various people known as "monkeys" through webcams. When players watch the daily lives of these people, they must strike a balance between information needs and ethical considerations, such as respecting privacy and avoiding interference with the monkeys' lives.
Gameplay
In Don't Feed the Monkeys, players must carefully manage their time and resources to gather information about the assigned monkeys. The game is divided into different "cages", each representing a different individual that the player must observe. Players must purchase equipment such as cameras and binoculars using their limited resources to observe their monkeys, as well as upgrade their "cages" for more advanced tools and information. Players must also carefully manage their time, choosing which monkeys to observe at different times of the day to avoid being detected by monkeys or authorities.
As players observe their monkeys, they discover a variety of secrets and stories about their lives, ranging from mundane to shocking. The player must then decide how to use the information, weighing the potential benefits of sharing it with the organization or selling it to other interested parties, and the ethical considerations of violating the monkey's privacy and potentially causing harm.
Storyline (no spoilers)
The storyline of Don't Feed the Monkeys is one of the most interesting and unique aspects of the game. As a member of a secret organization that is responsible for monitoring the lives of different individuals through webcams, players will discover a network of secrets and stories that unfold gradually throughout the game.
The game's narrative is also notable for its emphasis on ethical considerations and the consequences of player choices. When players collect information about their assigned monkeys, they must decide how to use the information, weighing the potential benefits of sharing it with their organization or selling it to other interested parties, and ethical considerations that invade the monkey's privacy and potentially cause harm. This creates a sense of moral ambiguity, increases the depth and complexity of the game's narrative, and forces players to consider the moral implications of their actions throughout the game.
The game's narrative is also known for its recurring characters and themes. As players progress through the game, they will encounter various characters who appear in multiple "cages", creating a sense of connectedness and continuity throughout the game. Similarly, the game's themes of surveillance, privacy, and social distancing are explored in different ways throughout the game, creating a sense of coherence and depth to the game's narrative.
Finally, the game's narrative is known for its multiple endings and branching storylines. Depending on the choices players make throughout the game, they may experience different outcomes and endings, creating a sense of repeatability and variety that encourages players to revisit the game multiple times. It also adds to the game's sense of moral ambiguity, as players must grapple with the consequences of their actions, as well as the potential long-term effects of their choices on the monkeys' lives they observe.
Recommended type
Don't Feed the Monkeys is a game that will appeal to players who enjoy an immersive, story-driven experience. The game emphasizes moral considerations and the consequences of player choices, so it is particularly suitable for players who prefer games with strong narrative elements and branching storylines. The game's resource management mechanics also make it ideal for players who enjoy strategy games and plans.
In addition, the game's unique premise and attention to observation make it a great choice for players who like to push the boundaries of traditional gaming. The game uses webcam simulation to monitor people's lives, which is both innovative and thought-provoking, making it stand out from other simulation games.
Overall, Don't Feed the Monkeys is a unique and immersive experience for players who love storyline games, strategic asset management, and innovative game mechanics. It focuses on ethical considerations and player choice, making it a game that stays with players long after they've finished the game.
Player experience
One of the most common emotions that Don't Feed the Monkeys makes players feel nervous and restless during the game, as players peek into the monkeys' lives and uncover their secrets and scandals. The game's resource management mechanics further exacerbate this tension, requiring players to carefully manage their resources and make strategic decisions about which monkeys to watch and what information to share.
When players uncover the monkey's secrets, they must deal with the consequences of their actions, weighing the potential benefits of sharing information with organizations or selling it for personal gain, and ethical considerations that invade the monkey's privacy and potentially cause harm. This creates a moral complexity that encourages players to reflect on their own values and beliefs.
Players can feel a sense of immersion and engagement with the game's narrative and mechanics. The game uses webcam simulations to monitor people's lives, creating a sense of realism and immediacy that engages players, while the game's branching storyline and multiple endings create repeatability and variety, encouraging players to rewatch the game multiple times.
I was impressed with the game's use of innovative game mechanics, especially the use of webcam simulations to spy on people's lives. The game's resource management mechanics add a layer of complexity to the game, creating a sense of strategic planning and decision-making that keeps me absolutely focused throughout the game.
Overall, Don't Feed the Monkeys is a game that has a lasting impact on players, with its unique premise, innovative gameplay mechanics, and thought-provoking themes. It emphasizes ethical considerations and the consequences of player choices, making it a game that stays with players long after they finish the game, and encourages reflection on the complex ethical issues raised by game narratives.
Selling price and configuration
Steam price - 3.35$
Recommended configuration: Operating System: Windows 7 SP1, Windows 8 (32/64), Windows 10 Processor: 2.6 Ghz Dual Core CPU memory: 4 GB RAM Graphics: Nvidia GeForce GT 610, ATI Radeon HD 4650 Series or higher DirectX Version: 9.0c Storage: 1 GB free space required Sound card: DirectX 9.0c Compatible Sound Card with Latest Drivers