Bub Game: Artist's Dreams and Dreads in New York City 2026

Bub is a stop-motion video game that blends art and autobiography, letting players experience the dreams and dreads of an artist in New York City. Created by Case Jernigan and Todd Anderson, this game explores health, anxiety, and memory through handcrafted visuals.

The Story Behind Bub

Players step into the life of an artist navigating present-day New York City while revisiting childhood memories and imaginative visions. The game is deeply personal, inspired by Jernigan’s own battle with multiple sclerosis (MS). He realized his anxiety and sensory issues were not just panic attacks but symptoms of his diagnosis. The tagline sums it up: “turning your memories into art while you still can.”

Gameplay and Mechanics

Unlike traditional games, Bub emphasizes pacing and immersion. Players control how long they spend in each scene, absorbing the stop-motion art at their own pace. Anderson designed intuitive controls that sometimes behave unpredictably, reflecting the artist’s struggles. “You could sit there as long as you wanted,” says Jernigan, highlighting the game’s calming yet invigorating atmosphere.

How Bub Compares to Other Autobiographical Games

Key Takeaways

• Unique art style: Hand-cut paper and stop-motion animation bring the artist’s world to life.
• Personal narrative: Based on Jernigan’s MS diagnosis and creative struggle.
• Immersive pacing: Players control their experience, making it both relaxing and deep.
• Autobiographical innovation: Uses game mechanics to convey emotional states.

FAQ

Bub is a testament to how video games can serve as a medium for deeply personal expression. By turning his own health struggles into art, Jernigan invites players to reflect on memory, creativity, and resilience. Whether you’re a fan of indie games or immersive storytelling, Bub offers a unique window into one artist’s world.