While Black Mirror often throws a critical lens on new tech, it’s also been at the forefront of transmedia storytelling and blurring the line between the on-screen and real worlds.
It already brought a choose-your-own adventure to screen with Bandersnatch back in 2018. Now it’s breaking the fourth wall again by making a real playable version of the fictional in-episode video game Thronglets from the new season.
Black Mirror: Thronglets | Official Launch Trailer | Netflix – YouTube
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How to Play Thronglets
The real Thronglets has been developed for Netflix by Night School Studio as an extension of the episode. It takes us into the show’s world, inviting us to raise the little Thronglets on our phones
You can play the Thronglets game now via the Netflix app on iOS or Android. You’ll need a Netflix subscription. Just download the app and sign in to your Netflix account.
The game is played out in isometric perspective. You need to care for your Thronglets by feeding them and keeping them clean. As they multiply, the game gets harder as there are more to care for, and one can easily starve or wander off and die if you lose track of it.
To help the critters, you can collect resources like wood and gems and upgraded tools to make things easier, like a pickaxe instead of a hammer or upgraded factories.
Easter Eggs in Thronglets
The Thronglets game can be completed in a couple hours but rewards replaying. In typical Black Mirror style, a bunch of Easter eggs have been hidden in the game.
Look out for the “White Bear” glyph and some other nods to Tuckersoft dotted around. You might even spy Tuckersoft’s Colin Ritman himself. There are also unlockable development diary videos, where some of the developer’s other projects are hidden, adding to the on-screen world.
Conclusion
Black Mirror has once again pushed the boundaries of transmedia storytelling, bringing the fictional world of Thronglets to life. With its retro aesthetic and addictive gameplay, Thronglets is a must-play for fans of the show and retro gaming enthusiasts alike.
FAQs
Q: Do I need to watch Plaything before playing Thronglets?
A: While it’s not necessary to watch Plaything before playing Thronglets, having background knowledge from the show will give you a bit of a heads-up on what to expect.
Q: Can I play Thronglets on any device?
A: Yes, Thronglets can be played on both iOS and Android devices via the Netflix app.
Q: How long can I expect to play Thronglets?
A: The game can be completed in a couple of hours, but it rewards replaying and encourages players to explore its Easter eggs and hidden content.
Q: Is Thronglets available on other platforms?
A: No, Thronglets is currently only available on Netflix via the iOS and Android apps.