Cat Petting Simulator 2014

Upon reading that this was "[t]he most realistic and verismilitudinous text-based simulation of petting a cat ever written", I thought that might be meant sarcastically; I thought there might be something zany going on here. But as it turns out, it

Sorry, where was I? My cat sat down next to me and I started petting him and then he rolled over onto my hand, which he doesn't seem to realize makes it harder for me to continue petting him. But I'm free now, so back to the review.

Anyway, it really is just a very realistic slice-of-life game about petting a cat, with every moment of the petting session described in loving detail. I'm a bit impressed by this; I don't think I could get this many words out of the topic. It's absolutely adorable.

Admittedly, it won't be for everyone; if you're not a cat lover, there's nothing else for you here, and it's unlikely to appeal if you prefer games that are strong on plot. There is some measure of gameplay, though, with the game silently tracking how pleased your feline companion is with you and presenting you with a score at the end. (I got a lukewarm 11/18, probably in part because I did not stop to pet the cat before getting my fries out of the oven as I was afraid my fries would burn if I did.) It also has multiple endings, although the differences are of course not too consequential.

For those who are fond of cats and slice-of-life works, though, it's a very pleasant way to spend a little time, and I would certainly recommend it. But now, if you'll excuse me, my cat feels strongly that I should be petting him again.