The Scientist Battles

Shaun'sLabNotes · 19 Aug 2025

About

The Scientist Battles is a short, narrative-driven game about the human side of science. Step into the shoes of a scientist facing burnout, self-doubt, and pressure in the lab, and explore an introspective story filled with emotional moments. The game also features light 2D combat inspired by laboratory tools.

Featured in Science: “Can a video game mimic the highs and lows of life as a scientist?”

Science used to be your purpose, but now it is your prison.

Trapped in a distorted version of your laboratory, shaped by the quiet, unseen struggles of scientific research, you must find your way out. Battle with lab-inspired tools and science-themed companions in light 2D combat! As in science, the way forward isn’t always a choice.

The Scientist Battles is a personal exploration of the realities of scientific research: the excitement of discovery, the frustration of failure, and the persistence required to keep moving forward.

Features:

A short narrative journey with an emotional, introspective tone
2D combat using lab equipment and science-inspired companions
Rooted in the lived experience of someone who's been through the ups and downs of research

Alright. Deep breaths. Let’s find the way out of here. I’ve got loads of experiments waiting for me back in the real world.

Researcher's log

I started this game while unemployed, after moving to a new country, and decided to finish it after returning to the lab. It’s inspired by the quieter, often unspoken stories behind scientific research. I hope the game resonates with you, even just a little bit, whether you're in the lab, playing for the story, or just finding your way forward.