When technology tests the senses to the degree that reality and computer generated experiences become almost indistinguishable, that's when a person's sanity is called into question, that's when your grip on reality is challenged. In a near future time, where totalitarianism has become humanity's solution to anarchy, crime, non-conformity and an unpalatable adherence to belief systems contrary to the pragmatic naturalistic model, Zac finds himself trying to remain uncommitted to anything but his own survival.
That survival includes employment in the black economy, avoidance of any behaviour likely to attract the brutal suppression of federation security forces and distraction through highly addictive virtual reality gaming. The game he was playing was different. For one, it's ability to transport you into a believable other world was unsurpassed. Secondly, it had a plot totally different from the empire building or endless battle narratives he was accustomed to. This game challenged his life philosophy. It was an allegory of what the world could be like if God intervened in the ways some people wished he would—all safety, all protection but no restraints.
His resistance to the game's message brought friction with the people he was beginning to care for and jeopardy to his personal safety. With the threat of discovery by federation security, Zac began the hazardous journey to get back to Australia.