Windows (status)

The Windows Status (also known as WIN or Windows User) is a status effect that appears in real life (Nintendo 64). Throughout the game there are enemy Windows users who will attempt to sink their proprietary software into the hero's neck. If one is to successfully persuade the player during their quest, and he/she is not able to shake it off in time, then the status of the player will change from "Good" to "WIN".

Effects

Carrie transforms into a Windows user

Aside from the hideous greyish skin color that comes with it, the Windows status has many other negative effects to it that players need to watch out for. The first noticeable effect is that text editors become disabled, leaving only the seldom Visual Studio alternate available for use in programming (excluding terminal attacks). Stallman also gets an additional feature where he won't be able to use his Neckbeard form (however, Stallman is immune to the infection whenever he has transformed into a Neckbeard).

The second noticeable effect is that using Free and Open Source Software to restore lost HP becomes impossible. Finally, the last effect that isn't noticeable until it's too late, is that if the player remains in this state for too long without getting it cured, then they'll submit to the urges of being a Windows user, and at that point, the game ends in evil's favor.

The point when they submit to the urge is always at the stroke of midnight (00:00) in game time. However, if the player is infected an hour before midnight, then they're given an extra day before their wills give out. For example, if the hero was infected at exactly 23:00, then they'd still have an extra day left to try and cure it. But, if the hero was to be infected at exactly 22:59, then unless an item capable of curing the affliction or delaying its effects was already in possession, they are most likely doomed to failure, as the hero would only have roughly one hour (in game time). The player can prolong the time they have left by the use of Sun and Moon Cards, since the in-game clock does pause and they cannot die or get hurt by anything while in the main menu. Regardless, it's best to treat this status as soon as possible.

How to cure Windows status

• Use an FSF-approved GNU/Linux-libre software distribution.
• Use a computer that respects your freedom down to the firmware level.
• Windows can also be cured by not updating the machine and letting Windows self-destruct.