Penguin Colony: A Lovecraftian Satire on Colonialism and Inaction

Key points

• Players control various penguin species to navigate a low-poly Antarctic landscape, swapping between them to access different areas.
• The game reimagines Lovecraft’s 'At the Mountains of Madness' with Nazi explorers seeking a monster they believe is the progenitor of the Aryan race.
• Collectibles include words in English and Māori, as well as photographs that unlock story snippets, rather than traditional items.
• The game features a Māori warrior narrative thread that contrasts with the passive observation of the penguins.
• Origame Digital blocked sales in Israel to demonstrate solidarity with Palestine, as confirmed by publisher Fellow Traveller.

Background

Origame Digital, known for Umurangi Generation, has previously explored themes of observation and colonialism. Their earlier works, such as the game about a photographer in a war zone, established a pattern of using passive protagonists to critique active violence. Penguin Colony continues this approach, using the indifference of penguins to highlight the absurdity of colonial and racist ideologies. The game’s release follows a period of increased scrutiny on the games industry’s response to global conflicts, particularly the genocide in Palestine.

How outlets are covering it

Aftermath emphasizes the game’s critique of the games industry’s inaction during the genocide in Palestine, noting a closing credit that condemns this cowardice. The Guardian highlights the game’s audacious retelling of Lovecraft’s novella, praising its layering of space, time, and narrative, and its technical unevenness. Kotaku focuses on the game’s use of adorable penguins to dismantle Lovecraft’s colonial overtones, praising its critical thesis and humorous tone. Rock Paper Shotgun describes it as a 'cracking parody' of Lovecraftian empires, noting its Soulslike elements and janky platforming, while praising its environmental storytelling and collectible system.

Why it matters

Penguin Colony challenges the traditional narrative of Lovecraftian horror by using the indifference of penguins to critique the racist and colonialist underpinnings of the genre. It also addresses the games industry’s response to global conflicts, urging active resistance against oppression. The game’s unique approach to collectibles and level design offers a fresh perspective on horror and platforming genres.

What to watch

Origame Digital plans to make more Lovecraftian games, with sights set on Cthulhu. PS5 and Nintendo Switch versions of Penguin Colony are planned for 2027. The game’s success may influence future indie games to explore similar themes of colonialism and inaction.