Dead End

Dead End.

CONTENT WARNING: SUBSTANCE USE, CURSE LANGUAGE

In our present day, many people are struggling managing their mental health and working lives. The US economy is in a moment where many people, especially young adults, are stuck working dead end jobs, working paycheck to paycheck, with little to no hope of getting to a point of economic stability. A large portion of these jobs are customer service jobs, relying on tip culture to make ends meet, and many individuals are forced to get multiple jobs to be able to just pay off their bills. Many higher paying positions are extremely hard for young adults to get, as many find that the requirements are too lengthy, require years of experience. 

Studies from the Pew research center have even found that companies are less likely to hire younger people compared to older generations. This lifestyle is an extremely strenuous one for many, and a common sentiment is that it creates this highly repetitive lifestyle, where one feels stuck in one moment when nothing they do seems like it is leading to something more. Often this is due to financial restrictions, not having time outside of work to pursue other opportunities, or just needing to be lucky.  

Dead End is a game that aims to relate to those who feel stuck in their current job and lifestyle, barely able to make ends meet and never able to break out of the repetitive cycle. While this narrative isn’t based off one story, it takes inspiration from many people I personally have met and gotten to know over the years and shows their life experiences. Many of them express how their mental health has deteriorated rapidly, feeling like they are working with no goals other than to survive. People with master’s in their field needing government aid, crashing on friend's couches as they can’t find a place they can afford, or turning to substance use to keep their mental health afloat. 

I thought this concept would be a good way to introduce myself to the Bitsy engine, as I like the limitations and retro aesthetics. While this game is designed to take place in present day, the retro limitations give a nice eerie noir vibe that I'm looking for. While I do enjoy the Bitsy engine, I would like to revisit this concept and try and flesh it out in another engine.

While I don’t expect this game to solve any problems, I hope it makes people feel seen and give some sort of reassurance as we navigate the troubles of our modern day economy.  

You play as Jules, a barista in her early twenties trying to make rent in the big city. As you aim to try and make rent, you’ll have to be a server to rude customers, deal with an unforgiving boss, and find help in those around you. Life is unfair, so in order to keep yourself sane in this cruel world, you’ll have to find good wherever you can find it. 

Created by Harrison Kratz in the Bitsy game engine.