Toilet Paper Wars

In the wake of the chaotic toilet paper shortages that gripped the world in 2020, game developers seized the opportunity to transform a peculiar moment in history into an entertaining and satirical gaming experience. Toilet Paper Wars, a term that encompasses several games inspired by the frenzy, captures the absurdity of the global rush for this household essential. This article explores the origins, gameplay, themes, and cultural significance of Toilet Paper Wars games, focusing on notable titles like those from SKY-E RED, Abstract Software Inc., and BunnyGame, which have turned a mundane item into a comedic battleground.

The Origins of Toilet Paper Wars

The concept of Toilet Paper Wars emerged from the real-world panic buying that swept across supermarkets during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic. As people stockpiled toilet paper amid fears of shortages, the phenomenon became a cultural touchstone, ripe for satire. Developers saw the humor in this frenzy and crafted games that reflected the absurdity of fighting over rolls of tissue. Titles like Toilet Paper War by SKY-E RED (released on Steam in May 2021) and Toilet Paper Wars by Abstract Software Inc. (available on the App Store in June 2025) draw directly from this moment, blending humor with action-packed gameplay to create a unique gaming niche.

These games take the premise of scarcity and amplify it into exaggerated, often post-apocalyptic narratives. For instance, Toilet Paper War by SKY-E RED imagines a world where toilet paper is more valuable than gold, with rumors suggesting it could cure a virus. Similarly, Toilet Paper Wars by Abstract Software Inc. places players in a cartoonish apocalypse where they brawl with “crazed shoppers” to secure the last rolls. The real-world inspiration grounds these games in a relatable context, making their over-the-top scenarios all the more amusing.

Gameplay Mechanics of Toilet Paper Wars

Toilet Paper Wars games span various genres, from role-playing games (RPGs) to beat ’em ups and casual arcade titles, each offering a distinct take on the toilet paper frenzy. In Toilet Paper War by SKY-E RED, players assume the role of a hero or heroine on a quest to collect toilet paper across a virus-ravaged country. The game combines action-packed battles with unique weapons—like laserswords, sniper rifles, and magical powers—with challenging mini-games such as “Toilet Paper War Space Invader” and “Jump For Your Life.” These mini-games require dexterity and strategy, adding variety to the core RPG experience.

On the mobile front, Toilet Paper Wars by Abstract Software Inc. delivers a beat ’em up experience where players fight off hordes of shoppers in a supermarket setting. The game emphasizes chaotic combat, with players unlocking carts, outfits, and emotes while facing bosses like “Mega Karen” or environmental challenges like tornadoes. Its simple controls make it accessible, but deeper mechanics, such as upgrades and secret power-ups, provide replay value for seasoned players.

Another title, Toilet Paper War by BunnyGame, takes a lighter, arcade-style approach. Available on itch.io, this game pits humans against mischievous cats unraveling toilet paper rolls. Players use simple attack and skill commands to rewind the rolls, embracing a whimsical take on the Toilet Paper Wars theme. Each game leverages the absurdity of its premise to deliver engaging gameplay that resonates with players familiar with the 2020 shortages.

Themes and Humor in Toilet Paper Wars

At their core, Toilet Paper Wars games are steeped in satire, poking fun at human behavior during crises. The narratives often explore themes of survival, greed, and absurdity, reflecting how people prioritized toilet paper over other essentials. SKY-E RED’s Toilet Paper War questions whether toilet paper could genuinely be a cure, blending humor with a critique of misinformation. Its colorful characters and witty dialogue keep the tone light, ensuring players laugh at the ridiculousness of their mission.

Abstract Software Inc.’s Toilet Paper Wars leans into cartoonish chaos, with a “comically light apocalypse vibe” that makes the end of the world feel silly rather than grim. The inclusion of humorous elements like “Mega Karen” as a boss taps into internet culture, poking fun at stereotypes that emerged during the pandemic. Meanwhile, BunnyGame’s version uses the playful human-cat rivalry to create a lighthearted experience that avoids the heavier themes of its counterparts. Together, these games use humor to transform a moment of collective anxiety into entertainment.

Cultural Significance and Reception

Toilet Paper Wars games serve as a time capsule for the 2020 panic, capturing a moment when toilet paper became a symbol of societal unease. By turning this frenzy into a game, developers invite players to reflect on the absurdity of those times while enjoying action-packed or lighthearted gameplay. The games’ varied approaches—RPG, beat ’em up, and arcade—demonstrate the versatility of the concept, appealing to different audiences.

Reception has been mixed but generally positive for its creativity. Toilet Paper War by SKY-E RED, an Early Access title, has garnered attention for its ambitious scope, though it lacks sufficient user reviews for a comprehensive rating. Toilet Paper Wars on mobile has been praised for its accessibility and humor, with players appreciating its offline playability. BunnyGame’s version, while niche, has been well-received for its simplicity and charm. The games’ ability to balance satire with engaging mechanics has made them memorable additions to the indie gaming scene.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Toilet Paper Wars

Toilet Paper Wars games are more than just a quirky response to a historical moment; they are a testament to the creativity of indie developers in transforming everyday absurdities into interactive art. Whether battling in supermarkets, outwitting cats, or navigating mini-games, these titles capture the zeitgeist of 2020 with humor and flair. As cultural artifacts, they remind us of a time when toilet paper became a battleground, inviting players to laugh at the chaos while celebrating human resilience and ingenuity.