CD-ROM

ほんとにPC画面を操作しているようでワクワクして、楽しい謎解きゲームでした。 ひとつひとつの謎解きは難しすぎない……はずだけど詰まってしまったところもありました。 ひとつは、CDをいったりきたりするし、その時点では使わない要素が混ざっているので、どの要素を謎解きに使うのかが分からなくて時間がかかりました。 もうひとつは英単語の意味を勘違いしていて詰まりました。 ちなみに起動画面から日本語は選べますが、気付かなかったです。オプションにはないです。 ですが、私が英単語の意味で詰まったところは日本語にしても一緒でした。 という感じで、全然進まなくてどうしようと思った場面もありましたが、なんとかヒントを見ないでクリアしたい！という気持ちにさせてくれるゲームでした。

The game was over a lot quicker than I expected it, the endgame goes by deceptively fast, but it was a fun little puzzle game with 10/10 presentation. None of the puzzles are very hard, they all require cross referencing information and maybe taking some notes (or screenshots), but it was intriguing and creative enough to keep me occupied for the 2 hours it took to finish.

As far as i have played, the artwork graphic and audio all are really nice, the only thing that's irritating to me is the constant switch around each CD to solve the puzzle, [spoiler] when solving CD 3 setup folder password, i thought there's only gonna be some link with the CD 2 blue pic since the colors on the pic does match,i kept solving and thinking all the possible code around that pic but it turns out the main point is actually on the CD 1 elevator lock pic [/spoiler], the lack of guideness and explanation made me not wanting to progress further because it's really tiring,i'm constantly confused about which solved which, and even switching around each CD feels like a lot of back and forth, maybe simplify it would be a lot better? or maybe i'm just too dumb and this kind of game doesn't suit me.

CD-ROM is a distinctive puzzle game developed and published by monoclelord that transforms the nostalgic idea of browsing old computer discs into an engaging series of logic challenges. Instead of following a traditional adventure or narrative structure, the game places players in front of ten virtual CDs, each packed with files, software, images, and hidden clues. Every disc revolves around uncovering an eight-digit password that unlocks the next stage, creating a steady sense of progression while encouraging players to examine every detail they encounter. Its premise is simple, but the execution offers a refreshing blend of mystery, exploration, and intellectual problem-solving. The gameplay is centered on observation and deduction rather than reflexes or combat. Each virtual disc introduces its own collection of puzzles that gradually become more sophisticated as players advance. Cryptography and steganography are the foundation of the experience, meaning solutions often require decoding encrypted messages or discovering information concealed within ordinary-looking files. Rather than relying on obvious hints, the game encourages experimentation and logical thinking, rewarding players who pay attention to subtle visual details, unusual file structures, and seemingly insignificant pieces of information. This design makes every breakthrough feel satisfying because progress comes from genuine understanding rather than guesswork. One of the game's greatest strengths is the way it simulates interacting with a retro computer environment. Instead of limiting players to puzzle screens, CD-ROM presents various in-game applications and utilities that function as investigative tools. These programs become essential for solving many of the mysteries hidden within each disc, making the entire interface feel like part of the gameplay rather than a simple menu system. The experience successfully recreates the excitement of exploring forgotten software collections, where every folder, executable, and document might contain the next important clue. This immersive presentation helps separate CD-ROM from more conventional puzzle titles. The visual presentation embraces pixel art and a vintage desktop aesthetic that perfectly complements its nostalgic concept. Rather than chasing modern graphical fidelity, the game focuses on recreating the appearance of classic computer software and multimedia collections. Each CD features its own distinctive style while maintaining a cohesive retro atmosphere across the entire adventure. This variety keeps exploration visually interesting and reinforces the feeling that every disc contains a unique collection of digital secrets waiting to be uncovered. The presentation is understated but highly effective in supporting the game's central idea. Beyond its main puzzles, CD-ROM also includes mini-games that provide occasional changes in pace without disrupting the overall experience. These moments prevent the gameplay from becoming overly repetitive while still contributing to the larger mystery. Steam achievements further encourage thorough exploration, giving completionists additional motivation to uncover every hidden detail and fully engage with the game's many layered challenges. The combination of puzzle-solving, software interaction, and optional objectives creates a well-rounded experience that consistently rewards curiosity. The game is unapologetically designed for players who enjoy solving difficult puzzles on their own. It offers little hand-holding, expecting players to take notes, revisit earlier discoveries, and think creatively when faced with increasingly demanding challenges. Those looking for a relaxed experience with frequent guidance may occasionally become frustrated, but fans of escape rooms, alternate reality games, and complex logic puzzles will likely appreciate the trust the game places in their analytical abilities. The gradual increase in difficulty feels natural, allowing players to build confidence before tackling more intricate forms of encryption and hidden information. CD-ROM succeeds because it fully commits to its unique concept instead of treating its retro style as mere decoration. Its carefully structured puzzles, immersive computer simulation, nostalgic presentation, and rewarding progression create an experience that feels fresh despite drawing inspiration from older technology. Developer and publisher monoclelord has crafted a thoughtful puzzle game that values patience, intelligence, and curiosity above all else, making it a memorable choice for players seeking a more cerebral gaming experience. Rating: 8/10

Simply amazing. Very clever puzzling, I always admire someone who can make a good puzzle beyond someone who can solve a good puzzle. This game was phenomenal. My only gripe is that it seemed front heavy, the difficulty peak was in the middle and then it got progressively easier to get the rest of the CD's. Not a real issue though, just a pacing thing, still very satisfying. I cannot help to believe that there is something more, however. The last button in the elevator is still red (i know it was clicked in the outro). And all those other rooms from the data base. Phenomenal either way. 9/10

Good short game! The navigating between discs can be a little tedious but I liked how interwoven the puzzle content was between sections.

[i]CD-ROM[/i] delivers remarkable puzzle design with a good retro aesthetic, although it's held back by a lack of quality-of-life features. The puzzles are more diverse than expected, and I haven't really seen most of these in other games. Some puzzle designs require you to go back and forth between CDs. After an hour, I decided to (1) set the game to windowed mode and take screenshots for convenience, or (2) use a guide that provides hints. It's a bit rough, but it's one of few rare cases where the term 'hidden gem' accurately describes this game.

I quite enjoyed this. It is like a cross between an escape room and an ARG style game dressed up in a retro computer aesthetic. At it's core, gameplay boils down to figuring out passwords to proceed, either to unlock a password-protected installer for a tool to install on your in-game computer, or to unlock the next CD that you can load onto the the drive of your in-game computer. The game ends when you have unlocked all 10 CDs. The whole 10 CD thing is also reminiscent of when CDROM drives first came out and while games on CDs were generally expensive, a few aggregators would put together these long strips with 10 CDs (mostly shovelware) on them for a budget price and you felt like you were getting a steal. Aaah, good times! The tools you install on the computer are used as part of the decrypting process to discover more passwords. One of the "tools" is actually a gateway to an area that you move through with FPS controls where you can discover more clues and you actually have to enter a few codes to proceed as well. The whole thing comes together very nicely and the puzzles are plentiful and fun.