Interim
About Interim
Interim is a cleverly designed indie game that delves into the frustration and absurdity of dealing with endless bureaucratic systems. Created for the GN Game Jam Autumn 2024, this game takes players on a surreal journey through a maze of paperwork, queues, and red tape, all in the pursuit of a single, elusive stamp of approval.
At its heart, Interim is a satirical adventure game that highlights the mundanity of navigating bureaucratic procedures. The game puts you in the shoes of a weary protagonist, caught in the seemingly endless process of trying to get paperwork approved. The challenge? You’ll need to wait in long lines, shuffle through forms, and interact with characters who range from apathetic clerks to eccentric fellow applicants. But be warned—there may be shortcuts to discover, if you're bold enough to bend the rules and explore areas that are off-limits.
The Concept
The game's core mechanic revolves around patience and resourcefulness. While players can choose to follow the expected procedures, there are hints that not everything is as straightforward as it seems. The game encourages exploration and problem-solving, hinting at hidden paths and secret strategies to expedite your journey through the bureaucratic labyrinth. But beware—taking shortcuts may have consequences!
Key Features
- Engaging Satirical Narrative: A witty storyline that captures the essence of bureaucratic absurdity, blending humor with social commentary.
- Unique Art Style: The game combines 2D and 3D visuals to create a vibrant, quirky world. Hand-drawn art by Isabella McKeever Scully and 3D models crafted by Eoin Murray-Brennan bring the setting to life.
- Puzzles and Hidden Secrets: While patience is key, players can explore alternative ways to navigate the system, uncovering secrets and shortcuts that might save time—or get you into trouble.
- Immersive Sound Design: The game captures the droning sounds of bureaucratic offices, adding to the immersion and tension as players try to find a way out.
How to Play
- Start Your Quest: Begin by joining the queue and filling out the necessary forms. The objective is simple—get your paperwork stamped.
- Explore the Environment: Don’t be afraid to explore areas beyond the waiting line. There might be hidden rooms and interactions that can speed up the process.
- Solve Puzzles: Along the way, you’ll encounter puzzles that require quick thinking and a bit of creativity to solve.
- Make Choices: Deciding whether to stick to the rules or bend them is up to you. Just remember that your actions may have unexpected outcomes.
