Absurd Trolley Problems is a browser-based quiz that playfully expands the classic ethical thought experiment known as the trolley problem. Created by Neal Agarwal and released in July 2022 on Neal.fun, the game challenges you to navigate 28 increasingly bizarre and humorous scenarios by choosing whether to pull a lever or stay put.
What Is the Game About?
At its core, Absurd Trolley Problems is a lighthearted take on ethical reasoning. Each of the 28 levels starts with a familiar trolley dilemma—typically, diverting a runaway car to save five lives at the cost of one—but soon morphs into bizarre scenarios: trading a priceless painting for lives, deciding between hot dog vendors or clowns, or even weighing CO₂ emissions against lives lost.
Despite the comedic setup, the game exaggerates to highlight philosophical questions: Is the moral calculus different when the options are absurd? Do we make choices based on personal ethics or gut reactions? By reaching the final level, players receive a whimsical “Congratulations! You have solved philosophy's message and a tally of their choices or "kills".
Key Features of Absurd Trolley Problems
- 28 Ridiculous Scenarios: Each level adds a new twist, keeping gameplay surprising and memorable.
- Browser-Based & Free: Play instantly on desktop or mobile – no downloads, no registration needed.
- Moral Comedy: Juxtaposes dark humor with philosophical dilemmas.
- Kill Count Ending: A satirical "scoreboard" challenges you to stop counting lives as mere statistics.
Why It’s Worth Playing
Absurd Trolley Problems stands out for its quick and entertaining gameplay – each scenario takes just a few seconds to complete, making it perfect for short breaks or casual play. It cleverly blends philosophy with comedy, offering players a chance to engage in lighthearted introspection or spark friendly debates over seemingly ridiculous decisions. Its viral popularity has led to widespread discussions on platforms like Reddit and YouTube, showing just how far its cultural impact reaches. Best of all, it’s completely free and easily accessible in any web browser, making it a fun and thought-provoking experience you can enjoy anytime, anywhere.
Community Reactions
On Reddit, players share how delightfully absurd scenarios spark intense moral reflection:
“Day 15…mystery box with 50% chance of two people vs 10% chance of ten people. What do you do?”
Backloggd reviewers describe it as a “silly” yet clever spin on moral dilemmas, perfect for playing with friends or after a few drinks.
How to Play Absurd Trolley Problems
Open the Absurd Trolley Problems game on our site
Read each trolley scenario carefully.
Choose Pull lever or Do nothing.
Progress through 28 levels, each more outrageous.
Finish the game and see your final kill score and the tongue-in-cheek final message.
Absurd Trolley Problems stands out by blending humor and philosophy into concise, interactive dilemmas. It’s a perfect coffee-break game for anyone who enjoys ethical puzzles, dark humor, or thought-provoking online experiences.
Ready to test your moral compass against clowns, lobster sentience, mystery boxes, and beyond? Dive into Absurd Trolley Problems and see if you're ready to solve philosophy.
