it’s always monday, developed and published by Alon Zubina, is a short, introspective first-person experience that trades traditional gameplay for atmosphere and thematic exploration. Rather than presenting a clear objective or challenge, it invites players into a surreal interpretation of routine and identity, using a familiar office setting as the foundation for something far more abstract. It’s less a game in the conventional sense and more an interactive reflection on monotony, perception, and the unsettling feeling of being stuck in an endless loop.
The experience places players in the role of Bob, an office worker whose seemingly ordinary life begins to unravel in subtle and increasingly strange ways. The gameplay is minimal, consisting primarily of walking through environments, interacting with objects, and triggering events that gradually reveal fragments of a larger idea. There are no complex systems, no combat, and no traditional puzzles to solve. Instead, progression is tied to exploration and observation, encouraging players to pay attention to small details and shifts in the environment. This design creates a slow, deliberate rhythm that mirrors the repetitive nature of the life it portrays.
What gives it’s always monday its identity is its thematic focus. The game explores the concept of routine as both comfort and confinement, using the office as a symbolic space where time feels stagnant and purpose becomes unclear. As players move through the environment, subtle changes begin to emerge—objects behave differently, spaces shift, and moments of surrealism break through the otherwise mundane setting. These elements are not explained directly, leaving players to interpret their meaning. For those willing to engage with its abstract storytelling, this ambiguity can be compelling, offering a personal and reflective experience. For others, it may feel too vague, as the game rarely provides clear answers or direction.
Visually, the game adopts a deliberately simple and somewhat rough aesthetic that reinforces its themes. The office spaces are repetitive and sparse, emphasizing the monotony of the setting, while occasional distortions and unusual visual elements create contrast and unease. The lack of detail works in favor of the atmosphere, making the environment feel both familiar and subtly wrong. Audio design plays a crucial role as well, with ambient sounds and quiet cues contributing to a persistent sense of discomfort. Together, these elements create an experience that feels more psychological than visually driven.
The pacing is intentionally slow and restrained, allowing the player to absorb the environment and its changes without urgency. This approach strengthens the thematic focus but also highlights one of the game’s limitations—its brevity. The experience is relatively short, and while it maintains a consistent tone throughout, it does not fully explore the depth of its ideas. It often feels like a concept introduced with strong intent but not expanded upon as much as it could have been.
Another notable aspect is the way the game balances its heavier themes with moments of subtle humor and absurdity. These moments provide contrast, preventing the experience from becoming overwhelmingly bleak while still maintaining an underlying sense of unease. This tonal interplay adds a layer of uniqueness, though it can also feel uneven at times.
Ultimately, it’s always monday is a niche and experimental experience that prioritizes mood and interpretation over traditional gameplay. It succeeds in creating a distinct atmosphere and presenting themes that encourage reflection, even if it does so within a limited scope. For players interested in abstract, narrative-driven experiences, it offers a brief but memorable journey. For those looking for structure, challenge, or clarity, it may feel too minimal to fully engage.
Rating: 7/10
