Coronavirus: Apocalypse vs Ortega Smith
Humor, Social Satire, and Retro Action
The gaming world welcomes a new addition packed with satire and biting humor: “Coronavirus: Apocalypse vs Ortega Smith”. This video game transforms the political management of the Covid-19 pandemic into a retro arcade action experience. Created by independent developer Javier Sánchez Peinado, the title presents a challenge of aim and reflexes where the secretary general of the Vox party, Ortega Smith, fights the pandemic… with bullets.
The Story Behind the Development
Francisco Javier Sánchez, a Fine Arts graduate and game developer, drew inspiration from real-world events to shape this interactive satire. The creative spark ignited following Ortega Smith’s coronavirus diagnosis in 2019, which coincided with his controversial remarks regarding “those damn Chinese viruses.” According to Sánchez, this statement, combined with the general conduct of politicians during the crisis, provided the perfect material for a humorous critique that transcends political ideologies.
The project, developed in just two and a half weeks, relies on retro aesthetics and satire as its core pillars. Despite the rapid development cycle, the game features artificial intelligence mechanics that progressively increase the challenge, causing the enemies—represented as viruses—to “learn” from the player’s behavior.
The project, developed in just two and a half weeks, relies on retro aesthetics and satire as its core pillars. Despite the rapid development cycle, the game features artificial intelligence mechanics that progressively increase the challenge, causing the enemies—represented as viruses—to “learn” from the player’s behavior.
Gameplay Mechanics and Style
In this arcade adventure, players take control of Ortega Smith, who must face hordes of mutant viruses while interacting with political figures like Pedro Sánchez and Quim Torra. Each character contributes iconic catchphrases that reinforce the game’s satirical tone. For instance, Pedro Sánchez assures that “the epidemic is under control,” while Quim Torra blames the Spanish State for the virus’s spread.
Players can collect power-ups, such as a beer that triggers a special attack to clear all enemies on screen. Additionally, an ad system allows for life recovery, incentivizing continuous play. With a polished retro aesthetic and dynamic elements like a fictional “supreme leader,” the game serves as a biting metaphor for political management during the pandemic.
Players can collect power-ups, such as a beer that triggers a special attack to clear all enemies on screen. Additionally, an ad system allows for life recovery, incentivizing continuous play. With a polished retro aesthetic and dynamic elements like a fictional “supreme leader,” the game serves as a biting metaphor for political management during the pandemic.
Controversy and Reflection
The game’s release has not been without controversy. The Google Play Store rejected its inclusion, labeling it as “sensitive content“—a recurring challenge for creators seeking to 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 is not a game against Vox or any particular party,” the author clarifies. The goal is to portray the inconsistencies and rhetoric that defined the pandemic’s management. Furthermore, Sánchez points out that freedom of expression and creativity are essential in an era where critical voices often seem under threat.
“It is not a game against Vox or any particular party,” the author clarifies. The goal is to portray the inconsistencies and rhetoric that defined the pandemic’s management. Furthermore, Sánchez points out that freedom of expression and creativity are essential in an era where critical voices often seem under threat.
Expansions and the Future
The game’s initial success could pave the way for future expansions, such as additional levels and the introduction of new characters or mechanics. Among the ideas for enhancing the title, Sánchez is considering incorporating references to “fake news” as part of the challenge, further strengthening the game’s humorous and critical message.
A Project Inviting Reflection
“Coronavirus: Apocalypse vs Ortega Smith” is more than just a video game; it is a work that blends entertainment with social satire, exploring the boundaries of humor in times of crisis. With its clever design and addictive mechanics, this title offers an experience that is not only fun but also invites players to reflect on the role of leadership and public perception during one of the most challenging moments in recent history.
