The members within the fictional Squid Recreation are recognized by numerical designations, not names, offering a layer of anonymity and dehumanization throughout the competitors. These digits are prominently displayed on their tracksuits and function their sole identifier all through the collection. A selected set of integers is assigned to every particular person competing for the grand prize.
Assigning every competitor a numeric designator serves a number of features throughout the narrative. It reinforces the theme of people being lowered to mere statistics in a system pushed by financial acquire. This technique transforms human beings into quantifiable belongings, stripped of individuality and private histories. Moreover, it contributes to the general ambiance of detachment and objectification that permeates the sport.