The 98xx is an old computer OS from the 90s that’s recently been discovered after many years of being lost. There are still a few working files within the OS that can be explored.
Players can engage with a wide variety of programs within the 98xx operating system, including classic 2D platformers like "Jumping Julian," puzzle games such as "Puzzle Patterns" and "Matching Game," as well as productivity software like "Pixel Paint" and "TypeWriter." This diverse selection allows players to experience different gameplay styles and challenges.
As players dive into the applications and files, they uncover unexpected glitches, cryptic messages, and references to a mysterious narrative. The game encourages players to approach their exploration with a sense of curiosity, as the rewards often lie in uncovering the game's multi-layered lore and hidden connections.
The gameplay centers around solving a variety of puzzles and completing mini-games, ranging from deciphering code and finding solutions to logic-based puzzles, to navigating treacherous 2D platforming sections. Players praise the game for its ability to strike a balance between accessibility and difficulty, providing a satisfying sense of accomplishment when they overcome the obstacles presented.
The game's retro aesthetic, with its grainy visuals and lo-fi audio, creates a sense of unease and a nostalgic connection to the era of early computing. The inclusion of unexpected glitches, cryptic messages, and unsettling encounters within the seemingly innocuous applications adds a layer of psychological tension that captivates players.
The game's non-linear structure, with multiple paths to explore and various narrative threads to uncover, encourages repeated playthroughs. Each session can lead to new discoveries, unexpected outcomes, and the emergence of unique stories and interpretations, fostering a sense of exploration and discovery that keeps players coming back.