Bloodborne PSX for Windows

Free demake of an action classic

Bloodborne PSX is a fan-made reimagining of the goth action game Bloodborne. This free-to-play demake reimagines the game for an older console or system. In this case, the original game was released in 2015 for the PlayStation 4. This retro version, however, gives you a taste of the decrepit city of Yharnam if it was made in the late 90s or early 2000s for the PlayStation (PSX).

With downgraded graphics and remapped controls, Bloodborne PSX is a refreshing experience, with the only restriction being that it doesn’t cover the entire game. Other similar experiences include Lucius Demake or Bio Evil.

A pleasant downgrade

As game developers and publishers have adopted a remastering trend, or taking old titles and recreating them for modern systems, indie modders are going the other direction. It has led to a rise in demakes, and Bloodborne PSX is one of them. Essentially, the 2015 game is recreated to simulate the experience of a lower, older engine—and makes an immersive experience out of it.

The first object to note is the graphics. Stages are in lower resolution, with all models appearing blocky and full of edges. It even captures the low framerate that really illustrates the difference between the two gaming systems. Gone are the photorealistic environment and character models, replaced with something similar to Tomb Raider I. Even the animation gets blocky and angular, which completes the retro experience.

It retains the same difficulty that soulslike games like Bloodborne are known for despite the visual overhaul. However, the lack of fluid animations makes the game slightly easier. Additionally, the only restriction is that the project doesn’t translate the entire Bloodborne game into a PlayStation game. On the plus side, it wraps up nicely and has an ending with the content that is available.

Your gateway to the demake subgenre

The demake subgenre is a small, niche type of video game, and Bloodborne PSX has to be one of the best products of these indie efforts. It manages to create a unique experience that is authentic both in being a Bloodborne game and being a PSX game. Both the graphics and the animation are spot on, leaving players to want a full demake of the popular soulslike.