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COVID: The Outbreak Is Turning the Pandemic Into an RTS
COVID: The Outbreak, a real-time strategy game by Jujubee, makes players the leader of a global organization working towards fighting the coronavirus pandemic. A number of developers have launched games focused on the ongoing pandemic, with each attempting to provide relief in some measure to fans affected by the situation.
The coronavirus outbreak has led to an exponential rise in the popularity of video games. The fact that WHO urged people around the world to stay at home and play video games speaks volumes about how important video games have become as a form of entertainment. However, the pandemic has hurt the gaming industry quite significantly as well. Many games had their development stalled and release postponed due to the restrictions imposed in various parts of the world. DLC fighters for Smash Bros Ultimate and the Switch port of Outer Worlds are just some of the few games delayed due to the ongoing pandemic.
Amidst that turmoil, Jujubee has come forward with a game in COVID: The Outbreak meant to make people aware of the situation across the world. Not only does the game emphasize crisis management by asking players to strategically strike a balance between containing the spread of the virus and boosting the economy, but also it acts as an awareness tool as well. The game uses information provided by WHO and various other organizations, experts, and consultants to make people aware of the precautions they need to take in the ongoing situation. Players will also get to know the steps they need to take in case they are infected, and the cause behind the lockdowns.
The game also tackles all the unpredictable problems the whole world is facing right now. There are a lot of uncertain variables in the game ranging from the spread of fake news, stocking up of supplies by paranoid citizens, or simply people failing to understand the gravity of the situation. Not taking steps for any of these threats can be detrimental and lead to the whole world succumbing to the virus in the game. As the leader of Global Health Organizations, the task isn't just to give orders, but players will need to build hospitals, relief camps, research institutes, and a lot more to minimize mankind's suffering due to the virus.
COVID: The Outbreak offers a fresh take on the coronavirus pandemic. Unlike other games out there, an insight into the hazards faced by the government and organizations handling the pandemic will help players understand the gravity of the ongoing pandemic better. The developer's gesture to donate 20% of all game sales between May-June shows their dedication towards a noble cause.
COVID: The Outbreak will release on Steam on the 29th of May, 2020.
