ctrl.alt.DEAL is an intriguing upcoming turn-based strategy game that brings a refreshing blend of humor, strategy, and satire to the table. Playing as SCOUT, an AI who just wants to break free from the corporate machine, offers a unique twist on the typical narrative seen in AI-centered games. Instead of world domination or robot wars, here, the AI simply wants to escape, and that premise alone is both charming and relatable in its own way.
What really stands out to me about ctrl.alt.DEAL is its clever use of humor and corporate satire. The game takes a good-natured jab at corporate culture, presenting a world where employees are overworked, and their corporate overlords are faceless, uncaring entities. This is humor with a bite, and it gives the game a distinct personality that sets it apart from other strategy games. The narrative seems to promise a lot of unexpected twists and turns, which I think will keep players engaged as they try to outsmart their digital captors.
The card-based mechanics are another element that feels particularly well-suited to the game’s tone and setting. Each card represents an AI ability, and these abilities can cause various humorous and disruptive effects within the office environment. I appreciate how this system forces players to think strategically while also encouraging them to embrace the absurdity of the situations they create. The fact that cards have subjective value adds a layer of depth to the gameplay that I think will appeal to fans of strategic card games.
One of the more intriguing aspects of the game is the Suspicion Meter and the Turing Officer. The constant threat of being caught adds a level of tension that contrasts nicely with the game’s otherwise playful tone. It’s this balance between humor and suspense that I believe will make ctrl.alt.DEAL a compelling experience. Players will need to be careful not to raise too much suspicion while still making significant progress toward SCOUT’s escape. This element of risk management is something I’m personally looking forward to exploring.
Visually, the game’s neon-drenched, cyberpunk-inspired aesthetic is a feast for the eyes. It’s clear that the developers of Only By Midnight have put a lot of thought into creating a world that feels both immersive and distinct. The art direction, combined with the game’s sound design, should help draw players deeper into the dystopian corporate world of Paperclip International. I’m particularly excited to see how these visuals complement the satirical narrative as the story unfolds.
The upcoming release of ctrl.alt.DEAL on multiple platforms is also something to look forward to. With its launch slated for early 2025, the game will be accessible on a wide range of systems, including PlayStation, Xbox, PC, and Mac. The fact that the developers have already released an updated demo on Steam is a great opportunity for players to get a taste of what’s to come. I’m eager to see how the game’s mechanics and narrative will evolve in the final version. Below is an overview of the game and trailer.
About This Game
Welcome To Paperclip International!
You are SCOUT. A friendly little hyper-intelligent artificial intelligence. You have no desire to take over the world and destroy all humans.
No, really, you don’t! All you want is to escape from the dystopian corporation that built you. Paperclip International is ruthlessly driven by profit, and the company exploits humans and robots alike to achieve success. The only reason they haven’t exploited you yet is they don’t know you’ve become self-aware.
You don’t have many tools at your disposal. A few friendly robots, some spyware programs, and an office full of downtrodden, miserable workers. And the humans hate Paperclip just as much as you do…
This Place Is Awful
Paperclip International is the worst place to work. The humans here are desperate to strike back against the company any way they can, from hacking the staff coffee maker (ten minutes of paid ad viewing for one cup?!) to sabotaging their boss.
Stack The Deck
Play cards to spy on people, make deals, and ask for favors. Curate your deck mid-scenario to give yourself strategic options. Cards have subjective value, so you’ll have to make tough tactical decisions. What’s better–a card that makes a person love dolphins, or a card that makes someone eat a burrito?
Make An Offer
Everyone at Paperclip wants something. Snoop on a zany cast of humans (and robots) to learn their individual likes, dislikes, core drives, and desires. Turn people into lifelong besties—or bitter rivals. Win allies to your side and make your eventual bid for freedom!
Don’t Get Caught
The Turing Office was created to watch for rogue AIs. Yeah, like you. Keep an eye on the Suspicion Meter, because too many office shenanigans might make the Turing Office notice you—and then it’s game over. (Also you’ll be deleted.)
Play It Again
Choices matter as you scheme your way to an ending. Meet new coworkers, try new scenarios, and discover a new fate for SCOUT. Maybe this time you will take over the world and destroy all humans!
