In this Rewind or Die review, I talk about the PlayStation port specifically, how it runs on the console, and whether or not I enjoyed running a VHS store.
If my review convinces you to revisit the nostalgic era of VHS, try out Rewind or Die on the PlayStation for yourself!
Rewind or Die Review
Like my Lakeview Cabin Collection review, this one focuses more on how the game performs on a console rather than a PC. Rewind or Die was released in 2023, which means plenty of horror fans, particularly those who like Puppet Combo, have already seen or played the game themselves.
While I want to discuss what I like about the game in general, I want to start with how the port feels on the PlayStation. Overall, it’s an extremely strong addition to the horror library of the PlayStation Store.
The controls are fluid, the game runs smoothly, and I didn’t come across any bugs in the slightest.
The Settings
One thing that I have to mention is the fact that you can rebind the controls to whichever button you want on the controller. This is common for PC games, but I rarely come across this feature on a console, so it was a welcome surprise.
On the topic of the settings, I do like that you can switch the VHS filter off if you wish to do so. I kept it on to keep the gritty vibes going, but I can see how some players may prefer to play without it.
The only downside to playing on a controller in Rewind or Die is that it can be a little tricky to aim, especially when trying to interact with something small on the screen. It’s not off-putting, but as we all know, it’s much easier to aim with a mouse than a joystick.
Low Poly, High Reward
Rewind or Die looks stunning on the big screen. Nothing’s overly blown out in the port, the UI is perfectly sized, and the menu is easy to navigate with a controller.
The rough-around-the-edge graphics add to the unsettling atmosphere, making it feel as if I was playing a highly optimised title with PS3 graphics… but on a PS5. I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, but I love it when games go down the low-poly route.
British Humour Meets Horror
Now to discuss the game itself! I won’t go into too much detail, as Rewind or Die isn’t brand-new. But, I can’t write a review without at least mentioning what I think about the plotline and overall gameplay.
The quirky northern accents are quintessentially British, especially with the generic yet familiar street, litter bins, and everyday sounds surrounding you. Maybe it’s because I’m British myself, but the fact that it takes place in a standard-looking town made it all the more creepy.
The humour is S-tier, lulling you into a false sense of normalcy. Performing the mundane tasks of a sleepy retail worker in a VHS store leaves you on the edge of your seat, waiting for the scares to begin.
Puzzles, thrilling chases with a fantastic soundtrack, and an overarching mystery plot await you in Rewind or Die. The music has a retro blood-pumping feel to it and the sound effects are realistic, adding to the ambience of the worst night of Tony’s life. This comes highly recommended.
The good
- Low-poly graphics make it all the more creepy
- The option to rebind your controls is great
- Fantastic soundtrack and atmospheric sound effects
- The British humour is spot on
- Runs smoothly and looks stunning on the PlayStation
The bad
- Can be tricky to aim with the joystick at times