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About CD-ROM
CD-ROM is a minimalist puzzle game by Monoclelord that tasks you with unlocking 10 sequentially encrypted CDs through steganography. Released March 31 2026 it lives in the indie puzzle niche with a focus on hidden data extraction. Each disc holds text numbers or passwords buried in files requiring close inspection. The game thrives on its simplicity and intellectual challenge positioning itself as a digital scavenger hunt for those who enjoy decoding mysteries. No combat or dialogue just a loop of discovery and decryption.
Gameplay
You spend most sessions zooming into CD images using built-in tools to uncover secrets. Right-clicking files reveals layers of text while audio tracks might hide numerical codes. Progress hinges on pattern recognition, spotting hex values in image metadata or noticing repeating symbols across discs. Later puzzles blend multiple techniques like combining audio waveforms with text encryption. Controls are basic but intuitive with drag-and-drop file sorting and a hex editor for deep dives. Sessions rarely last longer than an hour but the mental strain is high.
What Players Think
PlayPile users rate CD-ROM 4.7/5 with 3,200 completions and an 89% finish rate. Average playtime is 8 hours but top 10% finishers hit 14 hours. Community moods skew curious (68%) and accomplished (22%) though 10% report frustration. Review highlights include “Elegant use of steganography made me feel like a hacker” and “Disc 7’s audio puzzle was the most satisfying reveal.” 72% of players unlocked all 50 achievements averaging 6 hours to get 80%+ trophies.
PlayPile's Take
CD-ROM is a niche triumph for logic lovers and tinkerers. Its price point ($19.99) matches its scope, short but densely packed with clever puzzles. The lack of hand-holding may alienate casual players but hardcore puzzlers will appreciate the mental workout. If you’ve enjoyed games like The Witness or have a soft spot for retro data mysteries this is a steal. Just be prepared to keep notes and embrace the occasional dead end.
Game Modes
Single player
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