Life Of Monke
Solo Mini Game Design Project
The Concept:
Get ready for Life of Monke – a wild, hilarious, and thought-provoking 2D simulation game where you and a friend step into the shoes of two mischievous gorillas trapped in a zoo enclosure.
Experience the chaos of being constantly watched by noisy visitors: camera-flashing adults, rowdy kids running wild, and the constant pressure of being the star attraction. But it's not just about your gorilla antics – you'll experience what it's really like to be on display, living in a confined space while humans behave just as wildly as you do!
With quick, quirky actions like farting, munching on bananas, and calling out to the crowd, every moment brings humor and a deeper reflection on the behavior of both gorillas and humans. Will you learn how to outsmart the crowd, or just join in the madness? Find out in Life of Monke—a game that’s as entertaining as it is eye-opening!
List of Character Actions
Rationale:
Themes and Symbolism
The game explores the idea that while humans often treat zoo animals as entertainment, they themselves become the spectacle through their attention-seeking behaviour. This role reversal is emphasised through exaggerated human actions and the limited, repetitive controls given to the player-gorilla. These constraints mimic the mental state of real apes in captivity—bored, anxious, and exhibiting neurotic behaviours. The game’s confined environments and lack of clear objectives reinforce feelings of entrapment and helplessness, making the player reflect on the reality of zoo life for intelligent animals.
Emotional Experience
Players experience a range of emotions: Guilt from seeing human behaviour reflected in themselves, Discomfort from the gorilla’s limited freedom, and Attachment as they grow to care about the characters’ well-being.
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Despite the bleak setting, the multiplayer aspect fosters connection and shared experience, allowing players to find comfort and creativity through interaction. Ultimately, Life of Monke aims to challenge players’ perspectives on captivity and entertainment through humour, empathy, and intentional discomfort.