Banned Tapes for Windows

BANNED TAPES is an indie horror game that immerses players in a found-footage narrative. In this game, you assume the role of a filmmaker who stumbles upon a box of VHS tapes at a flea market. Your task is to sift through these tapes, identifying and selecting those that contain supernatural or violent events to captivate your audience. 

BANNED TAPES delivers a creepy atmosphere akin to films like Skinamarink and V/H/S, offering an hour of unsettling visuals and narratives. Its simple, intuitive gameplay lets players focus entirely on the eerie content without being distracted by complex simulation mechanics.

Short dive into analog dread

The core gameplay involves watching various VHS tapes and deciding which ones to include in your film project. Selecting tapes devoid of significant events fails, emphasizing the importance of keen observation. This mechanic heightens the tension, as players must remain vigilant for mystical or violent occurrences. The game's design effectively captures the essence of found-footage horror, immersing players in its unsettling world

A notable strength of the program is its atmospheric tension, which keeps players on edge throughout the experience. The minimalist gameplay mechanics ensure accessibility, allowing players to engage with the narrative without distraction. However, the game's short duration — approximately one hour — may leave some players desiring more content. Additionally, the lack of diverse gameplay elements might not appeal to those seeking varied interactions.

For enthusiasts of found-footage horror, BANNED TAPES delivers a concise yet immersive experience that effectively captures the genre's essence. While its brief length and straightforward mechanics may not cater to all preferences, the game succeeds in creating a haunting atmosphere that lingers beyond gameplay. If you're seeking a short, unsettling journey into the world of supernatural VHS tapes, this game is worth exploring.

A haunting journey through VHS terror

For enthusiasts of found-footage horror, BANNED TAPES delivers a concise yet immersive experience that effectively captures the genre's essence. While its brief length and straightforward mechanics may not cater to all preferences, the game succeeds in creating a haunting atmosphere that lingers beyond gameplay. If you're seeking a short, unsettling journey into the world of supernatural VHS tapes, this game is worth exploring.​

• The game now includes Russian language support, expanding accessibility
• Tape icons show remaining attempts, improving UI clarity
• The storyline is expanded with 16 new tapes, enriching the narrative
• Scene effects have been reworked for more unique visuals