Kudos (video game)

Lore & Background

In Kudos, the player controls a 'virtual life' for ten years, starting at age 20 and ending at age 30. An accelerated calendar system plays out each day, with only seven days in each month. During each turn (a single day, or half-day on weekends), the player chooses from solo and social activities and responds to phone calls from friends regarding social invitations. Every decision affects multiple aspects of the character's personality, mind, and body; for example, going bowling may improve fitness and happiness but reduce energy, with subtler effects depending on who attended and the character's state.

Reader's Guide

Kudos is significant as a British-developed life simulation game that predates and parallels the popularity of The Sims. Its focus on a fixed ten-year lifespan and the interconnected consequences of daily choices offered a distinct, more structured experience. The game's success led to a spinoff, Kudos: Rock Legend, which shifted the premise to forming a rock band, and a direct sequel, Kudos 2, which expanded the original formula with improved character art by comic artist Jamie McKelvie, more life choices, and an upgraded audio system. Kudos 2 also introduced a dating system, shopping categories, educational courses, and over 200 jobs. PC Gamer UK described the game as a perfect time waster, indicating its appeal as a casual, engaging simulation. The series remains a niche but notable entry in the life simulation genre, particularly for its British developer and its detailed, choice-driven gameplay.

Did You Know?

• Kudos was developed by British-based Positech Games, the makers of Democracy.
• The game's calendar system uses only seven days in each month.
• Kudos: Rock Legend, a spinoff, was released in 2007.
• Kudos 2 features character art by comic artist Jamie McKelvie.