It\'s As If You Were On Your Phone is a bizarre new introspective desktop mobile release

Author: Riley Mar 17,2025

Pippin Barr, a prolific solo developer and underground video game celebrity, has released his latest creation: It's As If You Were On Your Phone. This unique game challenges players to mimic phone use—gesturing and completing prompts—within a near-future setting where conformity to this behavior is absolute. Barr aims to provoke thought on the pressures of societal expectations.

It's As If You Were On Your Phone (IAIYWOYP) presents a bizarre premise: playing on your phone while pretending *not* to be. The game is set in a not-so-distant future where the constant pressure is to appear engaged with your phone, but not actually *using* it. The solution? Completing in-game prompts and acting as if you are immersed in your device.

The surreal gameplay experience might not offer much in terms of traditional game mechanics. However, IAIYWOYP's value lies in its artistic statement, exploring themes far beyond a simple "phones are bad" message.

A gray game screen with a prompt at the top to Stretch Your Neck Quickly, while a pink ball says to drag it to a small cutoutIt's art!

Should you play IAIYWOYP? That depends on your openness to experimental games. If you're willing to engage with its underlying message and consider its implications, you'll find much to ponder. However, its core mechanic of prompt-following might limit its replayability for some.

Given Pippin Barr's history of thought-provoking releases, IAIYWOYP is worth experiencing for its unique perspective. Consider playing it and reflecting on what the game says about both the experience and yourself.

For those seeking more traditional mobile gaming experiences, check out our list of the top five new mobile games this week.