Back in 1995 is an indie survival horror game that transports players to a post-apocalyptic world reminiscent of the mid-1990s. The protagonist, Kent, finds himself on the roof of a building in a city overrun by monstrous creatures. With a radio tower in the distance, Kent embarks on a perilous journey through the city’s desolate environments, battling grotesque enemies and uncovering the mysteries of the catastrophe that has befallen the world.
Developed by Throw the warped code out and published by KOMODO, Back in 1995 was released on April 28, 2016, for PC, PlayStation 4, PlayStation Vita, Nintendo Switch, and Xbox One. The game draws heavy inspiration from classic survival horror titles like Resident Evil and Alone in the Dark, aiming to capture the essence of 90s era gaming. The narrative unfolds as Kent navigates through urban environments, encountering both hostile entities and remnants of a once-thriving civilization. As he progresses, Kent discovers clues that shed light on the events leading up to the current desolation, all while contending with the ever-present threat of the mutated creatures lurking in the shadows.
Gameplay
Back in 1995 employs a fixed camera perspective, a hallmark of classic survival horror games. Players control Kent using tank style controls, adding to the nostalgic feel of the gameplay. The game emphasizes exploration and puzzle solving, with combat taking a backseat to atmosphere and tension. The environments are designed to evoke a sense of isolation and dread, with dimly lit corridors and abandoned buildings. Players must manage limited resources, such as ammunition and health items, to survive the challenges they face. The game’s progression is marked by uncovering documents and notes that provide insight into the backstory, as well as solving environmental puzzles that unlock new areas and advance the plot.
Visuals & Style
The game embraces a retro visual aesthetic, using low resolution textures and polygonal models to evoke the look and feel of mid 90s 3D games. Environments are muted in color, often dominated by grays and browns, emphasizing the city’s desolation and decay. Fixed camera angles provide a cinematic perspective, guiding players’ attention and heightening suspense.
Importance in Survival Horror History
Back in 1995 is an homage to the early survival horror era, capturing the spirit of 90s games while introducing it to modern players. By embracing fixed camera angles, resource scarcity, and slow-paced exploration, it reminds players why survival horror relied on tension and atmosphere rather than fast paced combat. The game is another example that demonstrates how indie developers can recreate the feel of a classic era while preserving the suspenseful, immersive qualities that made early horror games memorable.
Reception vs Historical Value
Upon release, the game received mixed to positive feedback, with praise for its nostalgic visuals, retro gameplay, and atmospheric design, while some critics highlighted the dated control scheme and camera angles as potential barriers for new players. Over time, it gained a cult following among fans of classic survival horror, who appreciate its dedication to replicating the style and tension of the 90s. Its historical value lies in its successful recreation of the genre’s formative era, serving as a bridge between retro and modern horror enthusiasts.
Availability & Collectibility
Back in 1995 is available digitally on platforms including Steam, PlayStation Store, Nintendo eShop, and Xbox Store. While it did not receive a physical release, its digital availability ensures that players can experience the game today. Collectors value it for its homage to classic survival horror and its unique indie perspective, making it an interesting addition to any horror game library.
Get it on:
Nintendo: Back in 1995 for Nintendo Switch – Nintendo Official Site
Steam: Back in 1995 on Steam
Xbox: Buy Back in 1995 | Xbox
PSN: Back in 1995
Trailer: