Alone in Tehran, a young Iranian turns to ChatGPT and video games...
Roxana, a young shop manager living alone in Tehran, found herself in a state of panic during the war with Israel. With her family residing outside the Iranian capital and her boyfriend engaged in compulsory military service on an Iranian base, she felt isolated and concerned for their safety. Even her psychotherapist had fled the bombings in Tehran, leaving Roxana feeling vulnerable and alone in the midst of chaos. 
As the war unfolded, Roxana turned to ChatGPT, seeking answers and reassurance in a time of uncertainty. Utilizing artificial intelligence, she posed questions in hopes of gaining insights into the duration of the conflict and potential outcomes. 
Seeking Answers in Turbulent Times
On the third or fourth day of the war, Roxana reached out to ChatGPT, hoping for clarity amidst the chaos. The AI app provided her with information regarding the Islamic Republic's diplomatic efforts and speculated on the duration of the conflict, estimating it could last for an additional 10 to 12 days.
Narges Keshavarznia, an internet access researcher at Filterwatch, highlighted the challenges Iranians faced in accessing platforms like ChatGPT due to restrictions. Despite these obstacles, individuals like Roxana managed to bypass internet blocks using specific proxies to engage with AI technologies.
A Lifeline in Troubled Times
As Roxana navigated the uncertainties of war, ChatGPT emerged as a valuable source of information and support. The AI app not only offered insights into the conflict but also served as a security advisor, guiding Roxana on safety measures within her home and providing reassurance during moments of anxiety. 
Amidst the challenges of internet blackouts and unreliable news sources, Roxana found solace in ChatGPT's consistent presence and advice. While misinformation plagued the digital landscape during the conflict, the AI chatbot remained a reliable companion to many, offering a sense of stability in turbulent times.
Navigating Life in Tehran
Before the war, Roxana's daily life in Tehran presented a stark contrast to the external turmoil. Engaging in activities like attending concerts and socializing with friends, she enjoyed moments of normalcy amidst societal restrictions. 
Creative and independent, Roxana and her peers grappled with financial hardships exacerbated by U.S. sanctions and internal economic challenges.
With a youthful population facing significant economic pressures, Roxana and her friends found themselves striving to make ends meet in an increasingly challenging environment. The disparity between the privileged and the working class underscored the struggles of individuals like Roxana, who felt overlooked and marginalized in the broader narrative of Iranian society.
Escaping into Virtual Realms
As the war disrupted her reality, Roxana sought refuge in video games like Life is Strange, immersing herself in a world where time could be rewound and alternate realities explored. The loss of her virtual life in The Sims due to hacking at the war's onset further pushed her towards the escapism offered by gaming.
Reflecting on the ceasefire and the somber aftermath of conflict, Roxana and her friends found solace in each other's company, grappling with the harsh realities of their disrupted lives.
