Midnight Snack is a bizarre and experimental horror game that turns a simple microwave into a controller for navigating a pixelated nightmare. With its retro 3D visuals and intentionally clunky mechanics, this short experience is equal parts frustrating, unsettling, and oddly compelling.
Publisher: Desborde Games
Developer: Desborde Games
Release Date: May 2, 2025
Genre: Indie Horror, Horror, Surreal, Psychological Horror
Gameplay: A Microwave as Your Guide
The game’s defining feature is its unconventional control scheme—you move through a dark forest using microwave dials. The bottom dial adjusts your direction, while the top one sets a timer for how long you’ll walk forward. Once set, you’re locked in until the timer runs out, making every movement a tense gamble.
This intentionally awkward system creates a unique kind of horror: not just from the lurking monster, but from the struggle to control your own movement. Getting stuck on obstacles leaves you vulnerable, and the creature lurking in the shadows is always waiting for a misstep.
Atmosphere & Visuals
The lo-fi pixelated 3D style enhances the surreal, dreamlike horror. The forest feels unnervingly empty yet threatening, with flickering lights and strange sounds keeping you on edge. The monster’s design is simple but effective, appearing suddenly when you least expect it.
Final Verdict: Short, Strange, and Memorable
Midnight Snack is more of an art piece than a traditional horror game. Its experimental controls won’t appeal to everyone, but those who embrace the jank will find a uniquely tense and surreal experience. At just 30 minutes long, it doesn’t overstay its welcome, making it a perfect quick horror snack for the curious.
Pros:
✔️ Nice and atmospheric
✔️ Very uniquely designed gameplay
✔️ The game has steam achievements
✔️ The game is free
Cons:
❌ Brief runtime
Game score: 6.5/10
Horror score: 5/10
“A weird, frustrating, but undeniably creative horror experiment—best enjoyed with patience and a sense of humor.” Definitely worth the time
Available free on Steam.
Review made by Go_Boom44. If you want your game or indie game review to feature on South Africa Today then email: gobooom44 (at) gmail.com
