Power-washing, pool-cleaning and mowing: Why millions are playing games about mundane jobs

""We want to make the Graham Norton of video games," says Kirsty Rigden, the chief executive of Brighton-based FuturLab, which makes PowerWash Simulator. Aspiring to emulate a talkshow host who has a reputation for being affable rather than for setting pulses racing is perhaps an unusual ambition for a gaming studio."

""I think it's really struck a chord with how people are feeling in the world right now - the world is in quite a stressy place," Rigden said. "With the game you are able to focus in on one thing, which kind of blocks all the other distractions out - it's a pure form of meditation.""

"The initial idea came from a personal interest Rigden had in watching YouTube videos of people power washing and the 'simplicity of seeing dirt turn to cleanliness'."

PowerWash Simulator allows players to clean various filthy locations, achieving a sparkling result. The game has sold over 17 million copies since its 2021 release. Its sequel, released in 2025, has been nominated for two Bafta Games Awards. The game falls under the mundane job simulation genre, which is gaining popularity. The CEO of FuturLab, Kirsty Rigden, emphasizes the appeal of lower-octane entertainment, likening it to the affable nature of talk show host Graham Norton. The game provides a meditative experience, helping players focus and block out distractions.

Read at www.bbc.com