Just as the new year begins, a unique horror game, cleverly disguised as a nostalgic Nintendo 64 platformer, is making waves in the gaming world. Titled “Shipwrecked 64,” this game is set within a fictional narrative where it’s presented as a largely forgotten platformer from the late ’90s.
The game’s backstory suggests it was available for only a week before disappearing from the market. Fast forward to decades later, a group of fictional dataminers discover a rare copy and release its code online, allowing players to delve into Bucky The Beaver’s classic-style adventure.
However, “Shipwrecked 64” is far more than it seems. According to its Steam page, it’s actually a horror game crafted to look like an authentic product from the era. But don’t let the charming mascot and retro graphics deceive you; the game contains graphic and violent scenes.
It also incorporates alternate reality game (ARG) elements, encouraging players to seek answers outside the game, fostering a community much like the cult horror game P.T.
Gameplay-wise, it resembles classics like “Super Mario 64” or “Conker’s Bad Fur Day” (for a more mature reference), involving jumping, exploring, collecting items, and interacting with anthropomorphic characters.
Yet, akin to other horror games such as “Doki Doki Literature Club,” unexpected and strange occurrences are set to surprise players. The Steam store page also hints at multiple layers, endings, and various areas to explore.
Intriguingly, the game offers two modes: a “safer,” restored 2023 version, and the enigmatic original 1997 version that was mysteriously withdrawn from the market. An aspect called Controlled Decay is mentioned, which intriguingly alters the game’s levels based on player actions.
“Shipwrecked 64” has garnered a “Very Positive” rating from over 100 Steam user reviews and is available for an affordable £6.70/$8. This meta-horror game is just one of the many indie surprises to look forward to in 2024 and beyond.
