CEO Simulator: Startup Edition is a browser-based simulation game where players take on the role of a startup CEO. You manage resources like cash, morale, and ideas, making decisions across departments such as marketing, engineering, and sales. The goal is to navigate the challenges of running a startup, balancing competing priorities and striving for a successful exit, either through acquisition or an IPO. The game features randomized events that force quick thinking and strategic adaptation, offering a simplified but engaging experience of the pressures and triumphs of the startup world.
War Thunder players have repeatedly leaked classified military documents related to in-game vehicles, seeking to improve the game's realism or win arguments in online forums. Driven by a desire for accuracy and fueled by competitive debates, these leaks have involved information on tanks like the Challenger 2, the Leclerc, and the Chinese Type 99, often including restricted manuals and specifications. While players argue their intentions are to enhance the game, these actions have serious real-world implications regarding national security and the dissemination of sensitive military data. The video emphasizes the absurdity of the situation, highlighting the clash between a video game's pursuit of realism and the potential dangers of unrestricted access to classified information.
Hacker News users discussed the motivations behind War Thunder players leaking classified military documents. Several commenters suggested that the players' intense dedication to realism in the game drives them to seek out and share restricted information to prove a point or improve the game's accuracy. This dedication, coupled with a lack of awareness about the potential consequences, contributes to the leaks. Some argued that the game developers bear some responsibility for fostering this environment by encouraging such a high level of realism. Other comments pointed out the ease of finding such information online, and the seemingly lax security surrounding some of these documents. A few commenters also highlighted the inherent tension between realism in games and the potential for misuse of sensitive information.
Summary of Comments ( 46 )
https://news.ycombinator.com/item?id=43102414
HN commenters generally found the CEO Simulator simplistic but fun for a short time. Several pointed out the unrealistic aspects of the game, like instantly hiring hundreds of engineers and the limited scope of decisions. Some suggested improvements, including more complex financial modeling, competitive dynamics, and varied employee personalities. A common sentiment was that the game captured the "feeling" of being overwhelmed as a CEO, even if the mechanics were shallow. A few users compared it favorably to other similar games and praised its clean UI. There was also a brief discussion about the challenges of representing startup life accurately in a game format.
The Hacker News post titled "CEO Simulator: Startup Edition" linking to the CEO Simulator web app has generated several comments discussing various aspects of the simulator and its portrayal of startup life.
Several commenters focus on the game mechanics and user experience. One notes that the game gets repetitive quickly and lacks strategic depth, suggesting it's more of a clicker game than a true simulation. They express a desire for more complex decision-making and branching narratives. Another commenter echoes this sentiment, pointing out the lack of feedback on decisions, making it difficult to learn and improve. The simplistic nature of firing employees is also criticized, with one user suggesting the game trivializes the human impact of such decisions.
Some commenters discuss the simulator's realism. One finds the game's portrayal of investor interactions and term sheets somewhat accurate, albeit simplified. Others debate the realism of the financial aspects, with one user suggesting the burn rate is unrealistic for a pre-seed startup. The rapid pace of decision-making in the game is also brought up, with commenters noting it doesn't reflect the often slower, more deliberate pace of real-world startups.
A few comments delve into the broader implications of the simulator. One user wonders if the game could be used as an educational tool, potentially introducing players to basic startup concepts. Another commenter raises ethical concerns about the game's potential to normalize toxic startup culture, particularly regarding employee treatment.
Several commenters offer suggestions for improvement. These include incorporating more detailed financial modeling, adding more diverse employee roles and skill sets, and introducing more complex challenges beyond just managing cash flow. One commenter suggests adding a "morality" score to reflect the ethical implications of player decisions.
There are also a few shorter comments that simply express enjoyment of the game or offer minor observations about its mechanics. One user appreciates the simplicity and quick gameplay loop, while another notes the addictive nature of the clicker elements.