Sometimes I have weird fantasies about a post apocalyptic world where factories burned down and people have to live with the tech that’s available. No network, just off site solar power or generators, only local devices. I think it’s interesting to think about how far we could get with this.
Does anyone have recommendations for novels, movies or video games with that topic?
Not fiction but you might find this interesting: https://collapseos.org/why.html
Pump 6 and Other Stories has a few in that vein, sort of. Eg there are no petrol engines, instead compression springs, treadle operated computers, etc. There are some pretty grim stories in there, some may find them distasteful.
https://windupstories.com/books/pump-six-and-other-stories/
Also I guess Silo / WOOL by Hugh Howey is perhaps closer to what you wrote literally but probably not quite the vibe maybe.
Chiming in to second this, Pump Six and Other Stories left me with a deep, deep sense of dread after I finished reading it. Highly recommended, such an underrated collection.
I suspect it might be too ‘soft’ for a lot folks around here (sadly), but “Monk and Robot” is charming.
In general, you should look into the ‘solarpunk’ genre, especially post-apocalyptic solarpunk.
Not exactly what you're describing, but https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/One_Second_After kinda fits the vibe. Warning: it's really depressing, but a good read if you're in the right head space for it.
Alas, Babylon by Pat Frank is another great book in a similar vein.
Besides published material, Cuba comes close. Kept frozen in time by eternal restrictive sanctions.
You don’t think the country is mismanaged?
Book of Eli has vibes along those lines
Are we still at the fantasy stage?