There's a serial killer stalking your video store, and you just got called into work on your day off! Stock shelves, deal with customers and RUN FOR YOUR LIFE!
The game puts you in the shoes of a video store employee who must work an unexpected shift, only to face a relentless serial killer known as "Slaw". You'll explore the meticulously crafted video store and surrounding areas, solve puzzles, and evade your murderous pursuer.
The environmental puzzles range from simple object-based challenges, such as finding the right key to open a door, to more complex spatial puzzles involving rearranging objects. While not overly difficult, solving these puzzles delivers a satisfying sense of accomplishment.
The retro-inspired, PS1-style graphics, combined with the grungy, gore-filled environments, effectively transport you to a bygone era of video rental stores and B-movie horror. Meticulously exploring the multi-layered video store and uncovering its secrets is a highlight.
When the serial killer Slaw is alerted to your presence, intense chase sequences ensue. You must quickly navigate the environment, hide, and evade the killer, with the game's chaotic, hard-rock chase music adding to the sense of urgency and panic.
The "rewind" mechanic allows you to go back in time and retry a section if you are killed or meet an unfortunate end. This adds an element of strategy, as you must carefully plan your movements and actions to avoid a gruesome fate.
The game features a variety of collectible items, such as VHS tapes with movie trivia, and hidden secrets for you to discover. Thoroughly exploring the environment and uncovering these elements is a rewarding aspect of the experience.
The vast majority of player reviews praise the game's strong sense of atmosphere, the enjoyable puzzle-solving, and the tense, thrilling chase sequences. Reviewers particularly appreciate the authenticity of the video store setting and the nostalgic appeal of the gameplay.