August 16, 2017, 11:57 AM 
In a world where Angry Birds can have a movie spin-off and Flappy Bird enthralled millions, the government also wants in on that sweet app action.
Because this is apparently how the world works now, Singapore's Central Provident Fund has developed a game app named Ready, Get Set, Grow!
It's free to download, and available on both the Apple and Google Play app stores.
From CPF's website
The game is similar to the classic Sonic the Hedgehog on Sega, where your in-game avatar runs from left to right, trying to collect as many coins as possible (because retirement is not cheap).
Along the way, you have to avoid obstacles like shopping bags, which presumably symbolise the evils of consumer spending.
From the CPF game
From the CPF game
You also need to watch out for these alien bug guys, who look suspiciously like close relatives of Mike Wazowski from Monsters Inc.
They appear to symbolise the folly of laziness in saving up for your golden years.
From the CPF game
The CPF is also surprisingly woke to the need for multi-ethnic representation.
Your avatar is not limited to the Chinese man. The character choice screen allows you to pick from a diverse range of avatars, including this one who looks ready to run for President.
From the CPF game
According to CPF, the game has a real-world element as well:
"If you score more than 25,000 points, you’ll get to redeem exclusive premiums at our retirement planning roadshows from Aug to Nov 2017, while stocks last. Look out for clues at the CPF Facebook page, CPF Service Centres and selected MRT stations on how to unlock the bonus round to increase your score."
However, the best part of the game might just be how keenly it mirrors Singaporean life.
Your character runs desperately without stopping, with a forced smile, trying to collect as many coins, money bags, bricks (for your HDB flat) and hearts (for your medical bills).
Meanwhile, giant billboards in the background nag at you about things you should already know.
From the CPF game
It's also rumoured that the full version of the game can only be unlocked once you reach 65. Until then, you just gotta keep plugging away.
Here are some equally interesting but totally unrelated stories:
Ways to make the government listen to you
How to not ruin your holiday when signing up for tour packages
Who looks after our ailing seniors outside of general hospitals?
Top image via CPF website
If you like what you read, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Telegram to get the latest updates.