“We Went Back” is a short, free horror game by Dead Thread Games that leaves a lasting impression despite its brief runtime. Clocking in at around 15-20 minutes, this atmospheric first-person experience delivers a tense, unsettling journey through a mysterious space station where time and reality seem to unravel.
Developer: Dead Thread Games
Publisher: Dead Thread Games
Platform: PC (Steam)
Release Date: April, 2020
Genre: Horror, Indie
Story & Atmosphere
The game drops you into the shoes of an astronaut returning to an abandoned space station, only to find that something is terribly wrong. The narrative is minimal but effective, relying on environmental storytelling and eerie audio logs to build a sense of dread. The station feels claustrophobic and oppressive, with flickering lights, distorted transmissions, and unsettling glitches that make you question what’s real.
Gameplay & Pacing
“We Went Back” is more of an interactive horror experience than a traditional game—there are no puzzles or combat, just exploration and tension. The pacing is tight, with each moment carefully crafted to maximize unease. The game plays with perspective and time loops in clever ways, creating a disorienting effect that keeps you on edge.
The standout moment is a brilliantly executed “time shift” sequence, where the environment changes around you in real-time, forcing you to navigate a space that feels both familiar and alien. It’s a simple but incredibly effective trick that makes the short playtime feel worthwhile.
Visuals & Sound Design
The graphics are modest but effective, using lighting and distortion to create a surreal, dreamlike (or nightmarish) atmosphere. The sound design is where the game truly shines—creepy whispers, sudden static bursts, and an unnerving soundtrack all contribute to the sense of isolation and impending doom.
Pros:
✔ It is free
✔ The game has Steam achievements
✔ Replayability – Multiple endings and hidden secrets encourage multiple playthroughs.
Cons:
❌ The run time is short
Verdict
“We Went Back” is a bite-sized horror game that proves you don’t need jump scares or lengthy gameplay to leave an impact. Its strength lies in its atmosphere, clever time-bending mechanics, and psychological unease. While it’s over quickly, the experience lingers, making it a must-play for fans of experimental horror.
Final Verdict:
Game score: 6.5/10
Horror score: 5/10
Since it’s free, there’s no reason not to give it a try—just be prepared for a brief but haunting trip into the unknown.
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
