Banned Tapes is a premium psychological horror-adventure game in VHS found-footage style. Players assume the role of a filmmaker who uncovers a collection of unsettling vintage tapes. As they review each tape, they must decide which segments—the most disturbing ones—to include in a final film.

Uncovering fear frame by frame

Banned Tapes' gameplay is simple but engaging. Players watch one tape at a time and decide which to keep based on how unsettling or supernatural the content appears. The game draws inspiration from experimental horror films like Skinamarink and V/H/S, using grainy visuals and eerie audio to build a strong sense of unease.

With a first-person perspective, players need to spot subtle details—miss a disturbing scene, and it could cost them. The goal is to build a collection of horrifying clips without wasting time on ordinary ones. While the game offers an intense atmosphere, it’s also fairly brief, with a total playtime of around 30 to 60 minutes, which may leave some players wanting more.

A brief but distinct horror concept

Banned Tapes doesn’t try to be a full-blown horror game—it stays within its lane and delivers a focused, stylized experience. For players who enjoy analog horror and mood-driven storytelling, it’s a memorable short play. However, with its brief runtime and low replay value, it may not appeal to those seeking something more expansive.