Surgeon Simulator

Surgeon Simulator logo

Surgeon Simulator is a video game developed and published by Bossa Studios, an independent game developer known for creating games with unique and quirky gameplay mechanics. Released in 2013, Surgeon Simulator quickly gained popularity and notoriety for its intentionally difficult and unconventional control scheme, as well as its dark humor. The game is a simulation that parodies the medical simulation genre, requiring players to perform various surgical procedures while controlling the movements of the surgeon's hand with a combination of keyboard and mouse inputs.

Gameplay

In Surgeon Simulator, players assume the role of Nigel Burke, an apparent surgeon with no discernible qualifications, who must complete a series of surgical operations. The game is known for its steep learning curve, largely due to its unconventional control scheme. Each finger of the surgeon's hand is controlled by a different keyboard key, and the mouse is used to move the hand and rotate the wrist. This setup creates a challenging and often humorous experience, as players struggle to perform precise actions such as picking up surgical instruments and using them correctly.

The game includes a variety of surgical procedures, including heart transplants, kidney transplants, and brain surgery, all performed in less-than-ideal circumstances ranging from an operating room to the back of a moving ambulance. The game does not aim for realism; instead, it exaggerates the complexity and difficulty of surgical procedures for comedic effect.

Development

Surgeon Simulator was originally developed during a 48-hour game jam in January 2013 by Bossa Studios. The game's concept and unique control scheme were met with enthusiasm, prompting the developers to create a full version. The full game was developed over a period of several months and included additional surgeries, environments, and improved graphics.

Reception

Upon release, Surgeon Simulator received mixed reviews from critics. Many praised the game for its originality, humor, and unique challenge, while others criticized it for its frustrating control scheme and lack of depth. Despite the mixed critical reception, Surgeon Simulator was a commercial success, developing a cult following and becoming a popular game for Let's Play videos on platforms like YouTube and Twitch.

Legacy

The success of Surgeon Simulator led Bossa Studios to develop a sequel, Surgeon Simulator 2, which was released in 2020. The sequel expanded on the original game's concept by introducing a cooperative multiplayer mode, more complex surgical procedures, and a level creation system that allows players to design and share their own levels.