COL129

2013

Other

Waiter, also known as the Other Waiter, is a character in the video game Other, an interactive fiction piece by Pippin Barr. While not a central figure, Waiter plays a crucial role in the game's exploration of themes surrounding interaction, obligation, and player agency.

Waiter's function within the game is simple: he is a non-player character (NPC) whose sole purpose is to respond to the player's commands, specifically requests for a waiter. The player can repeatedly call for the waiter, and the waiter will consistently acknowledge and respond, albeit with variations in tone and phrasing.

The repetitive nature of the interactions with Waiter serves to highlight the game's meta-narrative. It forces the player to confront the inherent absurdity of their actions within the virtual space and question the meaning behind the digital interaction. Waiter's unwavering commitment to his role, despite the potentially pointless nature of the player's requests, becomes a commentary on the nature of work and performance.

Ultimately, Waiter is more of a symbol than a fully fleshed-out character. He represents the automated, often meaningless, interactions that define many digital experiences, prompting players to consider the ethical and philosophical implications of their actions within virtual environments.