Free job hunt game for Mac
Screenshots
Job Hunter 202X is a free Mac role-playing game (RPG). You play as an out-of-work writer struggling to start a new career. You have choices to make that you'll have to decide at the right time. Sometimes you'll even have to battle to overcome piles of job application forms. At other times, you'll need to take a walk on the beach to regain your focus or study to improve your employment prospects.
Based on her personal experience of being unemployed, Joanie Rich (aka BubblyOasis) created the game at the Low Effort Game Jam 13 in three days. Peachleaf Valley: Seeds of Love is another RPG that's worth a look.
Content advisory
Before playing Job Hunter 202X, it's important to note that the game depicts the all-too-relatable trials of a job search. The game contains representations of mental duress, as you search and apply for the latest career opportunities. Therefore, it's not advisable to play it if you're already in a vulnerable emotional state, especially if you're finding it difficult to secure employment.
How to play
Job Hunter 202X depicts the very real situation of searching for a job. As usual, you'll be faced with application forms and demands for cover letters. With your money dwindling, you must also be careful of what you spend on things like bridge tolls.
Drive around town visiting local businesses and see if they have any job openings. Some of them may not even advertise their vacancies, so you'll have to decide what you're going to do when you visit those places.
You can avail yourself of their services or take the initiative and ask them if they have any openings. As you go along, you'll also have to balance your physical and mental health to ensure that you don't burn out. If that happens, then it's game over.
Finding work
In our opinion, Job Hunter 202X is an exceptionally well put-together game based on serious issues. It doesn't make light of the struggle experienced by many people when looking for work while balancing their monetary and emotional resources. The fantasy imagery used in the job application sections is a nice touch, representing them as a battle against mythical creatures.
If you're fortunate enough to not be in this position, playing Job Hunter 202X could give you a different perspective. On the other hand, if you’re a job-hunter, it's possible that, like the developer herself, you may find the game therapeutic.
