In 2025, the gaming world was surprised by the rediscovery of a lost gem: the alpha demo of Big Brother, a video game adaptation of George Orwell's 1984. Initially showcased at E3 1998, this ambitious project, a chronological continuation of Orwell's dystopian vision, was thought lost after its cancellation in 1999. However, in March 2025, a user named ShedTroll unexpectedly shared the alpha build online.
This remarkable find reignited interest in Big Brother, revealing its innovative design. Players would control Eric Blair (a clear nod to Orwell's real name), embarking on a mission to rescue his fiancée from the Thought Police. Gameplay blended puzzle elements reminiscent of Riven with action sequences inspired by Quake, creating a unique experience that challenged players both mentally and physically within a chillingly accurate depiction of a surveillance state.
Though never fully released, Big Brother's rediscovery provides a fascinating glimpse into late-90s game development and the creative approaches to adapting literary classics into interactive narratives. For fans of dystopian fiction and retro gaming, this is a true treasure.
