Coronavirus: Apocalypse vs Ortega Smith
Humor, Social Critique, and Retro Action
The gaming world welcomes a new addition filled with satire and sharp humor: "Coronavirus: Apocalypse vs Ortega Smith", a video game that turns the political handling of the Covid-19 pandemic into a retro-style arcade action experience. Created by independent developer Javier Sánchez Peinado, the title offers a challenge of aim and reflexes where Vox’s secretary general, Ortega Smith, takes on the pandemic… with bullets.
The Story Behind the Development
Francisco Javier Sánchez, a Fine Arts graduate and game developer, drew inspiration from real-life events to shape this interactive satire. The idea sparked after Ortega Smith’s coronavirus diagnosis in 2019, coinciding with his controversial remarks about "those damn Chinese viruses." According to Sánchez, this statement, combined with politicians’ behavior during the crisis, provided the perfect material for a humorous critique that spares no ideology.
The project, developed in just two and a half weeks, relies on retro style and satire as its core pillars. The tight development timeline didn’t stop the game from incorporating artificial intelligence mechanics that progressively increase the challenge, with enemies, represented as viruses, "learning" from the player’s behavior.
Gameplay and Style
In this arcade adventure, the player takes control of Ortega Smith, who must face waves of mutated viruses while interacting with political figures like Pedro Sánchez and Quim Torra. Each character delivers iconic lines that enhance the game’s satirical tone. For example, Pedro Sánchez assures that "the epidemic is under control," while Quim Torra blames the Spanish government for the virus.
The player has access to power-ups, such as a beer that triggers a special attack to eliminate all enemies on screen. Additionally, an ad system allows players to recover lives, encouraging continued gameplay. With a well-crafted retro aesthetic and dynamic elements like a fictional "supreme leader," the game becomes a metaphor for political management during the pandemic.
Controversy and Reflection
The release of the game has not been without controversy. Google Play Store rejected its inclusion, labeling it as "sensitive content," a recurring challenge for creations that push the boundaries of humor. However, Sánchez defends the project as an exercise in social, humorous, and creative critique that encourages reflection on political responsibility during times of crisis.
"It's not a game against Vox or any particular party," the author clarifies. The goal is to portray the inconsistencies and rhetoric that shaped the management of the pandemic. Furthermore, Sánchez points out that freedom of expression and creativity are essential in times when criticism seems to be under threat.
Expansions and Future
The initial success of the game could lead to future expansions, such as additional levels and the inclusion of new characters or mechanics. Among the ideas to improve the title, Sánchez is considering adding references to fake news as part of the challenge, further strengthening the game’s humorous and critical message.
A Project That Invites Reflection
"Coronavirus: Apocalypse vs Ortega Smith" goes beyond being just a simple video game; it is a work that blends entertainment and social critique, exploring the limits of humor in times of crisis. With clever design and addictive mechanics, this title offers an experience that not only entertains but also encourages reflection on the role of leaders and public perception during one of the most challenging moments in recent history.
