
Human Resource Machine
Release Date: October 15, 2015
Puzzle, 2D, programming, indie games, experimental/artistic, singleplayer
OpenCritic
Steam
Another game by Tomorrow Corporation, combining the mechanics of logic games with a rather serious topic (rarely occurs in the genre) and unique visuals. The player assumes the role of a corporate worker who begins their long way to the top, having taken up the lowest job position on the 1st floor. Each in-game level represents a year of work in the corporation, when the protagonist has to complete a certain task from their superior.
Human Resource Machine is another innovative game from Tomorrow Corporation, creators of World of Goo and Little Inferno - both well-received by the players and critics alike. Human Resource Machine combines logic elements with a rarely-seen story and unique graphics.
The players assume the role of an employee working for a respected corporation, who starts his journey up the corporate ladder from the very bottom. Each level symbolizes a year of work in which the user has to complete various tasks assigned by his superiors. To achieve that, we have to program instructions and run automated processes that will complete the task, which can involve things like assembling puzzles with numerical values and creating their various combinations.
Human Resource Machine distinguishes itself not only with its unconventional idea, but also with a bit surrealistic graphics and the story it depicts. Although the plot is rather humorous, it does sometimes bring about a moment of reflection, as in the game, the humans struggle to keep their jobs in a world where machines are seen as a better option.
Last updated on October 21, 2015
Videos and Screens
Kritiqal: 4 / 10 by Nate Kiernan
Human Resource Machine's attempts at accessibility are lost as its aggressive cynicism refuses to offer any support.
PC Gamer: 75 / 100 by Angus Morrison
A technically excellent educational game, but dry for all but maths enthusiasts.
Destructoid: 6 / 10 by Laura Kate Dale
I came out of Human Resource Machine unsure who it was really designed for. It's at times too simple for experienced programmers, and often made leaps too large for beginners to overcome without obtuse outside research. While I had a sense of accomplishment every time I made progress, said progress at times felt like I was an infant thrown into water and expected to swim straight away. I might manage it, but it's not the ideal teaching method to leave me feeling comfortable going forward.
Human Resource Machine Summary
Platforms:
PC Windows October 15, 2015
Nintendo Wii U October 29, 2015
Apple iOS June 1, 2016
Nintendo Switch March 16, 2017
Developer: Tomorrow Corporation
Publisher: Tomorrow Corporation
Age restrictions: 12+
Human Resource Machine System Requirements
PC / Windows
Minimum: Intel Pentium IV 1.5 GHz, 1 GB RAM, graphic card 256 MB GeForce 9400M or better, 200 MB HDD, Windows XP