Desktop Explorer

Desktop Explorer's pseudo-PC is wild and untamed—the rich and unexplored land of '90s computing rendered in faithful detail.

I always love a game that has you searching someone's computer, but Desktop Explorer takes things to the next level by integrating ingeniously designed puzzles that require serious thought to solve. It's not for everyone, but if you're a fan of brainteasers, you're going to love this.

Desktop Explorer transforms a retro Windows 95 desktop into one of the year's most inventive psychological horror adventures. With exceptional environmental storytelling, brilliantly varied puzzles, and a haunting atmosphere built around memory and loss, Recurring Dream's debut is a clever mystery that lingers long after the credits roll.

For Recurring Dream, Desktop Explorer is their debut game, and with its incredible detail, intricate and clever puzzles, strong script and narrative, it’s one they should be proud of and hold their heads up high for. With some adjustments to its accessibility, this would be an easy recommendation, but as it stands, I’d suggest bringing a guide and a notepad if you want to fully experience this tale for yourself.

Despite some setbacks, Desktop Explorer remains one of the most enjoyable and clever puzzle games I’ve played. The puzzles are unique, the horror is ever-present, and the aesthetic will appeal to anyone who grew up in the 90s, complete with a nostalgic soundtrack that suits each segment of the story.