What is Stanley Parable about? Gameplay, editions, & where to play

The Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe has finally launched. This latest edition of the popular indie game is an expanded version of the classic Stanley Parable game. It started as a mod before evolving into its own full-blown game that became a hit with critics. But what is the Stanley Parable about?

What is the Stanley Parable about?

The Stanley Parable is an interactive drama where players take control of the titular Stanley. There's an omnipresent voice narrator with a British accent that dictates what is going on within the game, but the game's narrative is decided through players' choices. The game first starts as a typical work simulator, before devolving into a game about free will and players' relationship with games.

Related: Differences between Stanley Parable and Stanley Parable: Ultra Deluxe

Stanley Parable is a simple, first-person, point-and-click game. Players never get to see Stanley's face. Players are trapped in an office and need to navigate through the mundane world of everyday work. The narrator gives clues and hints as to what players need to do next.

Stanley Parable editions and where to play

The Stanley Parable started as a Half-Life 2 mod in 2011, created by then 22-year-old Davey Wreden. The game was remade in 2013 and was released on PC and later on Mac. In 2018, the Ultra Deluxe version of was announced. The Ultra Deluxe is out now, and it is available for PC, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X|S.

For more on The Stanley Parable, keep reading Pro Game Guides.