Progress Bar Simulator stands out as an indie casual simulation game that turns the mundane act of watching loading screens into an interactive experience. In this quirky title, you take control of virtual progress bars, mimicking those from classic computing eras, and manipulate them through simple inputs. It's a lighthearted parody perfect for PC players seeking a break from intense gaming sessions, blending humor with basic mechanics that poke fun at everyday digital frustrations.
Gameplay
The core of Progress Bar Simulator revolves around controlling progress bars using keyboard keys or mouse actions. You press right or up to advance the bar and left or down to push it back, creating a straightforward loop of progression and regression. This setup allows for personal pacing in single-player scenarios, where you can speed up or slow down as desired. Multiplayer adds competition, with real-time button-mashing against friends or even Twitch chat integration, where audience messages influence the bar's movement - plus signs advance it, while minus signs regress it. The game features historically inspired progress bars, drawing from old computer interfaces for an authentic feel.
One notable addition comes from the HergornTV DLC, which introduces a rainbow puking emote that appears on the progress bar, along with a new image in the terminal and an option to toggle the logo. This enhances the visual flair without altering the fundamental mechanics, offering a fun customization layer for those who enjoy supporting content creators.
Game Modes
Progress Bar Simulator offers several modes to suit different play styles. In normal mode, you handle the bar at your own speed, progressing or regressing freely. Idle mode lets you sit back and observe the bar filling slowly and smoothly, ideal for a relaxed session. For those chasing challenges, RUN BAR mode focuses on speed-running, where you aim to complete playthroughs as quickly as possible and improve your times.
Multiplayer modes include shared or split-screen options for PvP and co-op, letting you compete directly with friends through keyboard inputs like space to advance and backspace to regress. The Twitch interactive mode stands out, enabling streamers to battle their audience in real time as chat commands dictate the bar's fate.
Features and Updates
Beyond the basics, the game includes Steam achievements, with 38 available in the base version, though DLCs like HergornTV do not add new ones to ensure accessibility for all players. It supports Steam Cloud for saves and Remote Play Together for online sharing. The title has remained in a stable state since its 2019 release, with the HergornTV DLC arriving in late 2024 to provide fresh cosmetic options.
Is It Worth Playing?
With an 86% positive rating from 91 reviews, Progress Bar Simulator appeals to players who appreciate satirical takes on gaming tropes. It's worth trying if you enjoy casual simulations that require minimal commitment, especially for quick laughs or multiplayer fun with friends and streaming communities. The low price point and simple controls make it accessible, though it might not hold attention for those seeking deep strategy or long campaigns. If parody and light interaction sound appealing, this one delivers a unique, humorous diversion.
