Papers, Please is an indie simulation game that puts you in the unglamorous but intense role of an immigration inspector at a border checkpoint in the fictional, totalitarian country of Arstotzka. Played in short daily shifts, the core gameplay revolves around checking passports, visas, work permits and other documents against an evolving rulebook. Simple mechanics—inspect, stamp, admit or deny—grow into a complex, fast-paced puzzle as new regulations, forged papers and special cases appear. Beyond paperwork, the game challenges your attention to detail, time management and moral judgment. You must balance accuracy with speed: each mistake brings fines, delays and escalating consequences for your family, who depend on your wages. Moral dilemmas are frequent and meaningful. Travelers beg for help, smuggle items, or claim urgent reasons to cross; following the rules strictly often hurts innocent people, while bending them can threaten your job and safety. This tension creates genuine emotional weight and multiple possible outcomes. A stark, retro visual style and carefully designed sound deepen the atmosphere, making the checkpoint feel oppressive and real. The narrative unfolds through short interactions, news bulletins, and branching events, leading to many different endings based on your choices. Small details—matching photos, stamping techniques, interrogations and secondary jobs—add variety and replayability. Papers, Please appeals to players who enjoy thoughtful, story-driven experiences with puzzle and strategy elements. It rewards observation, patience and ethical thinking rather than reflexes. Whether you’re drawn to its political themes, the tension of tense decision-making, or the satisfaction of mastering shifting rules, the game offers a compact but powerful experience that lingers long after you close the booth.

What is the main objective of Papers, Please?

The main objective of Papers, Please is to serve as an immigration officer in the fictional country of Arstotzka. You must inspect documents, determine who is allowed to enter, and make decisions that can affect the game's outcome.

How do I check documents for entry?

To check documents, you must compare the information on them to the relevant regulations, such as expiration dates, names, and matching photographs. You can also use tools like the document camera and the ID card checker.

What happens if I deny entry to someone?

Denying entry can have multiple outcomes. If your denial is correct per the regulations, you maintain your job and earn money. However, if you deny someone wrongfully, it may result in penalties or loss of income for mistakes.

How can I manage my family's needs in the game?

Managing your family's needs involves balancing your salary against their requirements. You must decide whether to spend your earnings on food, heat, or medication. Failure to meet their needs can lead to negative consequences for your character.

What are the key steps to complete a day's work efficiently?

To complete a day's work efficiently, follow these steps: 1. Familiarize yourself with the daily regulations. 2. Use available tools to compare documents. 3. Pay attention to audio cues and visual details. 4. Make timely decisions to avoid mistakes and penalties.