Pippin Barr, a renowned underground video game developer, has once again pushed the boundaries of gaming with his latest release, "It's As If You Were On Your Phone" (IAIYWOYP). Known for his thought-provoking and unconventional games, Barr's new project delves into a surreal exploration of the future, where societal pressure to appear engaged with your phone while actually being detached is omnipresent.

In IAIYWOYP, players are tasked with simulating phone use through various gestures and completing on-screen prompts, all while pretending not to be on their device. This concept, set in a near future where conformity is absolute, offers a unique commentary on our relationship with technology. It's an intriguing setup that challenges players to reflect on the pressures of modern society and the facade of constant connectivity.

From a gameplay perspective, IAIYWOYP might not offer traditional entertainment value, but its strength lies in its artistic statement. It invites players to question the role of phones in our lives beyond the usual narrative of "phones are bad." The game prompts players to engage in actions like "Stretch Your Neck Quickly" or drag a pink ball to a cutout, which serves as a metaphor for the often meaningless tasks we perform on our devices.

**It's aaaart!!!**

Whether you should play IAIYWOYP depends on your openness to experimental gaming. If you're willing to explore its deeper messages and engage with its artistic intent, there's much to be gained. However, if you're seeking traditional gameplay, you might find it lacking. Still, given Barr's track record of delivering unique experiences, IAIYWOYP is certainly worth a try for those curious about what it might reveal about themselves and society.

For those interested in more conventional mobile gaming experiences, our list of the top five new mobile games to try this week offers a variety of options to explore.