 Many players debated Proteus ' status as a video game , citing aspects such as the lack of real goals or objectives . Some called it an anti @-@ game . This description , however , was controversial . Grayson argued that Proteus does contain an action ( walking ) and a goal ( proceeding through the seasons ) . Edge 's reviewer contended that the day / night cycle , changeable weather , and a player @-@ triggered change of seasons qualified Proteus as a legitimate game . Key responded by pointing out that , while the product does include rudimentary game mechanics , interacting with them is optional and they do not usually provide feedback . However , Key went on to argue that " encouraging a strict definition of ' game ' does nothing but foster conservatism and defensiveness " . 
