Return to the Shadows – Version 1.0 Now Available!

Today, we’re opening a special door into the past, a door that leads back to where it all began.

We’re thrilled to announce that Version 1.0 of Backrooms: Realm of Shadows is now officially playable for all Steam users! This feature has been highly requested by long-time players, speedrunners, and lore hunters who wanted to revisit the earliest iteration of the game.

What's Different in Version 1.0?

Version 1.0 represents the very first public release of the game. It’s raw, unpolished, and eerie in ways the current version no longer is, and that’s part of its charm.

Here’s what makes it unique:

• The Original Movement System Before we refined and rebuilt the player controller, movement in Version 1.0 had its own pace, quirks, and flow. It’s back exactly as it was.

• Classic Level Design You’ll find early versions of levels that have since been redesigned or removed. Expect a more surreal, unpredictable atmosphere, complete with old lighting setups, asset placements, and layouts that were later overhauled.

• The Original Note System Before narrative integration was more seamless, notes played a bigger role in storytelling. The old system is back in its original form.

• Legacy Systems Restored Version 1.0 includes systems and mechanics that no longer exist in the modern game, some experimental, some chaotic, and all part of the game's early DNA.

Important Notes & Recommendations

While we’re excited to offer this nostalgic option, there are a few important caveats to keep in mind:

• The Eternal Shadow DLC is NOT compatible with Version 1.0. You’ll need to return to the latest build to experience any content from the DLC.

• Bugs and Balancing Issues Version 1.0 is exactly as it was on release. This means you may encounter old bugs, balance problems, or features that no longer behave as expected. We’ve made no changes to preserve its authenticity.

• Recommended for Experienced Players Only If you’re new to the game, we strongly recommend starting with the current version for a more polished, stable, and balanced experience. Version 1.0 is best enjoyed by those who’ve already completed the game and want a deeper look at its history.

• Steam-Only Feature This feature is only available on the Steam version of the game. Unfortunately, it is not supported on the Epic Games Store at this time.

How to Access Version 1.0 on Steam

To switch to Version 1.0:

1. Right-click on Backrooms: Realm of Shadows in your Steam library.

2. Select Properties.

3. Go to the Betas tab.

4. Choose version1.0 from the dropdown list.

5. Close the window and allow Steam to update the game.

You can switch back to the latest version at any time using the same method.

We know many of you have a deep connection to this game, some of you were here since the very first build, reporting bugs, exploring hidden corners, and sharing your theories. This release is for you.

Thank you for supporting Backrooms: Realm of Shadows as it’s grown. From our earliest prototype to the full game we’ve built together today, your passion and feedback have shaped every update.

We hope this walk down memory lane gives you a new perspective on how far we've come, and maybe a chill or two along the way.

Until Next Time!

— Cyprus Games