Revive the Iconic GFOTY Simulator App


Revive the Iconic GFOTY Simulator App
The Issue
Thanks for that clarification! Here's the updated version with the correct location for the live set:
In 2016, the release of hyperpop artist GFOTY’s EP VIPOTY was marked by a unique collaboration between GFOTY and her label, PC Music, resulting in the creation of a remarkable app titled GFOTY Simulator. This app wasn't just a digital tool; it became a cultural artifact for fans of GFOTY and followers of the hyperpop genre, offering an interactive experience that celebrated the bold and vibrant spirit of GFOTY’s music.
In the VIPOTY promotional short film, there’s a memorable moment where the character Chad (the dreamy love interest who appears throughout the EP's narrative) is depicted playing the GFOTY Simulator app on a smartphone. The scene is treated as “in‑universe”: Chad’s screen displays the game’s distinctive pastel UI, and the film’s sound design layers in the app’s signature effects—menu blips, chiptune stingers, and interface jingles—so that the Simulator almost becomes a character itself in the visual storyline. Critics of the VIPOTY short note that these odd and stylized sound cues—drawn directly from the in-app audio—are woven diegetically into the film, blurring the line between app and narrative. You can watch the full VIPOTY promotional short film here: https://youtu.be/6VhIEQgkAjs?si=wJVEDYlPLNDU0slq
The app’s visuals also made their way into GFOTY’s live performances, further cementing its place in her artistic universe. A key example can be seen during GFOTY’s 2016 live set at Pop Crypt LA, where the GFOTY Simulator’s signature digital visuals were projected behind her while she performed. You can check out the full set here: https://youtu.be/j0g4liouLS0?si=tgF8r8fEma0CE26M
Interestingly, the app’s visuals were also featured in the lyric video for GFOTY’s song “Don’t Wanna / Let’s Do It,” further cementing its place in her broader artistic universe. You can watch the lyric video here: https://youtu.be/wmGauKp2HiA?si=XHVJV8o83MyLa8cB
In 2019, GFOTY, whose real name is Polly Louisa Salmon, parted ways with PC Music, and subsequently, the label stopped releasing new music in 2023. As a result, the GFOTY Simulator app was deleted, effectively erasing a piece of digital art that resonated deeply with its fan base. For many of us, this app was more than just a novelty; it was a symbol of an era and an artistic expression that encapsulated the unique energy and creativity of hyperpop and PC Music’s innovative style.
There is hope that the digital legacy of GFOTY’s creative output can be revived. The revival of the GFOTY Simulatorwould not only be a gift to its original users but can also introduce a new generation to the radical and fun spirit of GFOTY’s work.
A video of the app still exists online, illustrating its uniqueness and the joy it provided to many: https://youtu.be/iKotzIxTRfw?si=o‑ahQcqrdO27or7N
Now, more than ever, we need your support to respectfully urge PC Music, and if possible, GFOTY herself, to consider relaunching the GFOTY Simulator app. Together, we can advocate for the protection and revival of digital culture by bringing back this iconic piece of music history. Please sign this petition to help make this happen.

76
The Issue
Thanks for that clarification! Here's the updated version with the correct location for the live set:
In 2016, the release of hyperpop artist GFOTY’s EP VIPOTY was marked by a unique collaboration between GFOTY and her label, PC Music, resulting in the creation of a remarkable app titled GFOTY Simulator. This app wasn't just a digital tool; it became a cultural artifact for fans of GFOTY and followers of the hyperpop genre, offering an interactive experience that celebrated the bold and vibrant spirit of GFOTY’s music.
In the VIPOTY promotional short film, there’s a memorable moment where the character Chad (the dreamy love interest who appears throughout the EP's narrative) is depicted playing the GFOTY Simulator app on a smartphone. The scene is treated as “in‑universe”: Chad’s screen displays the game’s distinctive pastel UI, and the film’s sound design layers in the app’s signature effects—menu blips, chiptune stingers, and interface jingles—so that the Simulator almost becomes a character itself in the visual storyline. Critics of the VIPOTY short note that these odd and stylized sound cues—drawn directly from the in-app audio—are woven diegetically into the film, blurring the line between app and narrative. You can watch the full VIPOTY promotional short film here: https://youtu.be/6VhIEQgkAjs?si=wJVEDYlPLNDU0slq
The app’s visuals also made their way into GFOTY’s live performances, further cementing its place in her artistic universe. A key example can be seen during GFOTY’s 2016 live set at Pop Crypt LA, where the GFOTY Simulator’s signature digital visuals were projected behind her while she performed. You can check out the full set here: https://youtu.be/j0g4liouLS0?si=tgF8r8fEma0CE26M
Interestingly, the app’s visuals were also featured in the lyric video for GFOTY’s song “Don’t Wanna / Let’s Do It,” further cementing its place in her broader artistic universe. You can watch the lyric video here: https://youtu.be/wmGauKp2HiA?si=XHVJV8o83MyLa8cB
In 2019, GFOTY, whose real name is Polly Louisa Salmon, parted ways with PC Music, and subsequently, the label stopped releasing new music in 2023. As a result, the GFOTY Simulator app was deleted, effectively erasing a piece of digital art that resonated deeply with its fan base. For many of us, this app was more than just a novelty; it was a symbol of an era and an artistic expression that encapsulated the unique energy and creativity of hyperpop and PC Music’s innovative style.
There is hope that the digital legacy of GFOTY’s creative output can be revived. The revival of the GFOTY Simulatorwould not only be a gift to its original users but can also introduce a new generation to the radical and fun spirit of GFOTY’s work.
A video of the app still exists online, illustrating its uniqueness and the joy it provided to many: https://youtu.be/iKotzIxTRfw?si=o‑ahQcqrdO27or7N
Now, more than ever, we need your support to respectfully urge PC Music, and if possible, GFOTY herself, to consider relaunching the GFOTY Simulator app. Together, we can advocate for the protection and revival of digital culture by bringing back this iconic piece of music history. Please sign this petition to help make this happen.

76
The Decision Makers
Supporter Voices
Petition created on July 12, 2025