In the fictional world of Papers, Please, originally launched in 2013, the setting feels increasingly relevant. The game, centered around immigration and border control decisions, resonates more strongly as current events unfold.

Lucas Pope stated, “It blows my mind that it’s only becoming more and more relevant over time. Honestly, it’s a tragedy.” During an interview this past Wednesday at the Game Developers Conference in San Francisco, he reflected on how the game’s themes contrast sharply with the political climate today’s issues, particularly regarding immigration.

Pope’s sentiments highlight a stark reality where the made-up struggles of a game now mirror real-world scenarios, revealing a deeper commentary on the treatment of immigrants today. As sentiments against migrants rise globally, discussions around such topics grow increasingly pertinent.

He continued, “You want your work to be relevant, but at the same time, wow, I really wish it was not that f***ing relevant.”

In what seems a tumultuous decade for migrant rights, his creation still commands attention, illustrating the unfortunate continuity of its themes.