The sunny, seemingly idyllic town of Porcupine is home to "Fall of Porcupine", a refreshing story adventure with a mixture of suspense and everyday life. As a budding doctor, Finley roams the town, explores the tragic and bizarre stories of its inhabitants and uncovers the darker side of the healthcare system. Beautiful, isn't it? Yes, but be careful! The hedgehog's sting is treacherous and goes deeper than you think.
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An IGeL in doctor's clothing: the new face of St. Ursula
At the center of this medical drama is Finley, who Newly qualified doctor at St. Ursula Hospital. However, as is so often the case with new challenges, the start of "adult life" proves to be a chaotic jumble of professional and personal demands. Finding a balance is not just a flap of the wings, but a welcome challenge. The dream of studying medicine turns out to be less glamorous than proclaimed in the lecture hall, but the charm of the Small town of Porcupine has many a surprise in store.
Life in Porcupine is as magical as the quirky community of lovable characters. The sharp-witted head doctor, the selfless nurse and Finley's imaginative friends are just some of the characters you will meet on the cobbled streets of Porcupine. Dialogs are not only EntertainmentThey form relationships, influence the lives of the players and lead to humorous, serious and profound conversations.
By the way... Anyone wondering at this point what the whole thing has to do with a hedgehog - and unfortunately the gag only works in German-speaking countries - needs to know that IGeL refers to "individual health services". "In normal usage, they are called "self-pay services" and refer to all services that have to be paid for in the practice itself." According to the website of the IGeL-Monitor. The website explains these services and provides tips and options to help you navigate the healthcare madness. Admittedly, it has nothing to do with our protagonist, but perhaps something to do with his attitude to healthcare. (And if you're wondering why I'm explaining this: I've just been asked about it too many times! Never mind! :D)
Mini-games and social challenges
Fall of Porcupine writes the script for the life of a doctor with a series of creative mini-games that recreate everyday hospital life. Skill, logic and speed are required when treating patients. It's not just a quick reach for the syringe that counts, but also an open ear for the worries and concerns of the patients. Problems of the patients. Fall of Porcupine is no ordinary medical simulator, but a game that takes a close look at the healthcare system.
Behind the friendly facade of Porcupine conceals numerous social grievances and structural problems. A look behind the scenes reveals injustices and an unhealthy healthcare system. But a hedgehog doesn't curl up, it sharpens its spines. It is up to the players to uncover and denounce these injustices.
Fall of Porcupine: A heartwarming gesture
Cologne-based developer studio Critical Rabbit, formerly Buntspecht Games, is breaking new ground with Fall of Porcupine. Not only have they created a captivating game, they have also set an example for health. As part of the "Save the World" edition, they have 1,000 copies of Fall of Porcupine to healthcare workers. This act of generosity underlines the profound message of the game.
The work on Fall of Porcupine is based on in-depth interviews with more than 20 people working in the medical field. In this way, the aim is to provide an authentic portrayal of the challenges in the healthcare system. The Save the World Edition not only a great gaming experience, but also raises awareness of the difficulties facing the healthcare system.
Update from 30.08.2023: After a very relaxed conversation with two creative minds from Critical Rabbit at the GamesCom 2023I can provide the following additional information on the "Save the World Edition". A reply email states: "The "Save the World" edition of our game available on Steam includes our soundtrack with bonus tracks and our artbook. A portion of the proceeds from this bundle will be donated to charity. The campaign with the game key gift to people from the healthcare system is separate from this and primarily took place in 2022 (although people from the care system can still contact us today and receive a key in some cases)."
Fall of Porcupine or who is the hedgehog here?
Fall of Porcupine is a moving excursion into a dazzling small townthat touches and enlivens the hearts of players in equal measure. An imaginative adventure that combines both the joys and the Shady sides of the medical profession and raises questions about health in a captivating way. An invitation that no one should turn down, because otherwise you might have to endure the spines of the hedgehog you are hugging.
