# The Tearoom

> 2017 video game developed by Robert Yang

**Wikidata**: [Q118531048](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q118531048)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Tearoom)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/the-tearoom

## Summary
*The Tearoom* is a 2017 simulation video game developed by Robert Yang, set in a public toilet. It was designed to explore themes of censorship and industry norms by subtly replacing sexual content with firearms. The game was distributed digitally via itch.io and runs on Windows, Linux, and macOS.

## Key Facts
- Developed by Robert Yang and published by the same creator.
- Released in 2017 as a proprietary, copyrighted video game.
- Genre: simulation video game.
- Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Linux, macOS.
- Game mode: single-player.
- Input devices: computer keyboard and mouse.
- Distributed by itch.io as a digital distribution.
- Set in a public toilet in Ohio.
- Described as appealing to censors by swapping sexual content for firearms.
- Licensed under a proprietary license.

## FAQs
### Q: What is *The Tearoom* about?
A: *The Tearoom* is a simulation game set in a public toilet, designed to explore themes of censorship and industry norms. It subtly replaces sexual content with firearms, making it more palatable to censors.

### Q: Who developed *The Tearoom*?
A: *The Tearoom* was developed by Robert Yang, who also served as the publisher and developer.

### Q: On which platforms is *The Tearoom* available?
A: The game is available on Microsoft Windows, Linux, and macOS.

### Q: How was *The Tearoom* distributed?
A: The game was distributed digitally via itch.io.

### Q: What makes *The Tearoom* unique?
A: The game stands out for its unconventional approach to censorship, replacing sexual content with firearms to appeal to industry norms while maintaining its artistic intent.

## Why It Matters
*The Tearoom* is significant as an experimental work that challenges traditional video game content norms. By subtly altering its themes to avoid censorship, it highlights the intersection of artistic expression and industry expectations. The game’s setting in a public toilet and its digital distribution further emphasize its role as a commentary on societal and creative constraints. Its release in 2017 reflects broader discussions about the boundaries of artistic freedom in gaming. The game’s approach to censorship also invites reflection on how content is shaped by external pressures, making it a notable example of indie game design.

## Notable For
- Pioneering a censorship-aware approach in indie game development.
- Substituting sexual content with firearms to navigate industry norms.
- Set in a public toilet, creating a unique and thought-provoking environment.
- Distributed via itch.io, emphasizing digital indie game accessibility.
- Exploring themes of artistic freedom and creative constraints.

## Body
### Overview
*The Tearoom* is a 2017 simulation video game developed by Robert Yang. The game is set in a public toilet, a setting that serves as a metaphor for both physical and societal constraints. It was designed to appeal to censors by subtly replacing sexual content with firearms, reflecting broader themes of artistic expression and industry norms.

### Development and Release
- Developed and published by Robert Yang.
- Released in 2017 under a proprietary license.
- Distributed digitally via itch.io.

### Platforms and Accessibility
- Available on Microsoft Windows, Linux, and macOS.
- Single-player game mode.
- Requires computer keyboard and mouse for input.

### Thematic and Narrative Elements
- Set in a public toilet in Ohio.
- Explores themes of censorship and industry norms.
- Described as appealing to censors by swapping sexual content for firearms.

### Critical Reception and Context
- Featured in articles discussing censorship in gaming.
- Highlighted as an example of indie game experimentation.
- Reflects broader discussions about artistic freedom in video games.

### Technical Specifications
- Proprietary license with copyrighted status.
- Digital distribution format.
- No specific technical requirements beyond standard platform compatibility.

### External Recognition
- Mentioned in Eurogamer and The Guardian for its unique approach to content.
- Identified by various gaming databases, including Eurogamer, VG247, and Internet Game Database.

## References

1. Q124398839