A border inspector's thrilling simulator
Remember the gripping tension of Papers, Please? The scrutinizing, detail-oriented gameplay that had you meticulously checking documents under the oppressive weight of a fictional regime?
Well, Contraband Police takes that core concept and amps it up significantly.
Picture this: It's the 1980s, and you're a newly assigned border guard in the communist Acarist People's Republic. Your country is locked in a simmering tension with its neighbors, and your job is vital – stop the flow of illegal goods and individuals across the border.
What’s Contraband Police is all about?
What starts as a seemingly straightforward task of matching photos, checking dates, and verifying worker permits quickly unfolds into a complex dance of suspicion and investigation. In Contraband Police, smugglers get creative. They'll forge documents, hide contraband in ingenious compartments, and even attempt to bribe you. Your dedication and sharp eye are the only things standing between order and chaos.
The core gameplay loop of Contraband Police is undeniably addictive. The act of comparing information, looking for inconsistencies, and even physically searching vehicles is oddly satisfying. There's a puzzle-like element to unraveling smuggling attempts.
But here's the kicker: this isn't just a sedentary document checker. Contraband Police has action! Smugglers will resist, and tense roadside ambushes are a real threat. You'll need to engage in shootouts, using your wits and limited firepower to survive. This action element adds a layer of excitement that other document-checking games often lack.
Choices matter in this game
While the gunplay isn't the smoothest, the game shines in its tense atmosphere and surprising story. Your choices in Contraband Police matter. Will you be a loyal government agent, a corrupt opportunist, or perhaps even join forces with a growing resistance movement? The narrative branches based on your actions, lending a sense of weight to your decisions.
Known formula well executed
Overall, Contraband Police is an excellent evolution of the Papers, Please concept. It adds depth, action, and compelling choices to the core gameplay loop.
Sure, the graphics might not be cutting-edge, but the intensity of inspections, the smuggling puzzles, and the unfolding narrative more than make up for it. If you ever enjoyed the thrill of being a meticulous gatekeeper, Contraband Police is a must-play.
