Step into the role of a border immigration officer in the totalitarian state of Arstotzka in "Papers, Please." Set in a dystopian world, this game offers a unique and thought-provoking experience that delves into themes of immigration, morality, and authority. As the newly appointed immigration inspector, players must carefully inspect documents, make tough decisions, and navigate complex moral dilemmas while striving to maintain order and provide for their family in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

In "Papers, Please," players take on the role of a border immigration officer stationed at a checkpoint between the fictional countries of Arstotzka and its neighbors. Each in-game day, players are tasked with processing an increasing number of individuals seeking entry into Arstotzka, each presenting a variety of documents like passports, visas, and permits.

The gameplay centers on the careful inspection of these documents for discrepancies, errors, and inconsistencies, all while adhering to the ever-changing immigration policies and regulations established by the government. Players must scrutinize each document, cross-referencing information, checking for forgeries, and verifying the legitimacy of the papers to decide whether to grant entry, deny entry, or detain individuals for further questioning.

As the game progresses, players must balance speed and accuracy in processing individuals while managing limited resources, including their salary, which depends on the number of individuals processed each day. Additionally, players will face moral dilemmas and ethical challenges, such as whether to accept bribes, assist asylum seekers, or comply with government orders that may conflict with their personal beliefs.

The consequences of players' decisions are significant and impact both the lives of those seeking entry and the well-being of their own family. Mistakes, such as accepting bribes or denying legitimate asylum requests, can lead to penalties, fines, or even jeopardize the player's family. Conversely, maintaining integrity, compassion, and fairness may result in sacrifices and hardships for the player's family, creating an ongoing tension between duty and personal ethics.

Throughout the game, players will encounter various storylines, characters, and branching narratives that unfold based on their choices and actions. These narratives explore themes such as political corruption, human trafficking, terrorism, and resistance movements, adding depth and complexity to the game's story and enhancing its replay value.