Canadian Songwriter Mac DeMarco, who recently released his third album ‘Salad Days’ to overwhelmingly positive reviews, has been immortalized in a new online game titled ‘Squish Em.’
The premise of the game is simple: choose a cigarette brand (Marlborough, Viceroy or Lucky Strike) and then use that cigarette to squish the life out of the various creepy-crawlies that march past your computer screen. They’re quick and determined little guys, so it’s definitely not as easy as you might think.
The game, created by Subbacultcha, is actually a super-addictive (though probably unproductive) way to spend your time. If you’re extremely afraid of bugs, you might want to skip this game. On the other hand, it might offer you some bug-crushing satisfaction. After all, nothing will make you feel more invincible than destroying the lives of virtual bugs.
Critter-Squishing Games
The ‘Squish Em’ Game is Cathartic for Those Who Hate Bugs
Trend Themes
1. Virtual Catharsis Games - Games that provide an outlet for stress or anxiety related to real-life experiences, could be beneficial areas of exploration in light of mental health concerns.
2. Immersive Gaming Experience - Games that provide a complete sensory experience and levels of interactivity beyond the traditional gaming experience may be a disruptive innovation opportunity.
3. Customized Gamification - More companies may leverage customized game design elements as a way of engaging and incentivizing consumers toward achieving their brands' goals.
Industry Implications
1. Gaming - The gaming industry may find opportunities in creating games as an outlet for catharsis, engaging gamers in a more complete sensory experience, and customized gamification for marketing purposes.
2. Mental Health - Providing alternative and non-pharmaceutical ways of dealing with anxiety and stress related to real-life experiences are potential disruption opportunities for the mental health industry.
3. Marketing - More companies may include gamification elements in marketing campaigns to engage their customers and incentivize actions that promote their brands.