Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

3.6/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 42,587

Mobile Support: Yes

About 5 Minutes (Demo)

Step inside a chilling home invasion with **5 Minutes (Demo)**, an indie horror game forged as a passionate college project and now captivating the gaming world. Designed for the bravest players, this compact demo thrusts you into the vulnerable shoes of a child left home alone—with something, or someone, unwelcome lurking nearby.

From the instant you load the browser-based HTML5 game (no downloads needed!), the atmosphere wraps around you. Flickering shadows, creaking floorboards, and every heartbeat are rendered in minimalist yet immersive indie visuals. For full effect, the game demands you play in fullscreen and with headphones. The sound design will send goosebumps skittering down your spine as your speakers whisper every unnatural movement in the house.

“5 Minutes” isn’t just a name—it’s a countdown of sheer, edge-of-your-seat tension. Your goal: survive the next five minutes and outwit the intruder. The hard difficulty isn’t just a badge—it’s a promise. Every second feels genuinely earned as you make agonizing decisions: which room to hide in, when to risk moving, whether that creak spells imminent danger or is just your overactive imagination.

Layers of dread are expertly woven through the short, impactful experience. Player choices and split-second timing make every run unique. Advanced gamers will revel in the game's trial-and-error mastery, while horror fans will appreciate the experimental storytelling and cinematic tension—rare qualities in a free browser game.

Perfectly optimized for both desktop and mobile play, "5 Minutes" lowers the barrier to entry—but not the level of fear or challenge. Compete for your own best time, share your experience on social, and celebrate your survival in the comments. This demo is a haunting, bite-sized shot of adrenaline that leaves you hungry for more—perfect for indie fans hunting the next viral hidden gem. Are you ready to step into darkness, even just for five minutes?

How to Play

Getting started with 5 Minutes (Demo) is quick, but survival is anything but easy! Begin by launching the game in fullscreen for maximum immersion, and plug in your headphones—this experience thrives on subtle audio cues. You play as a child, suddenly alone in a house that isn’t quite as empty as you thought.

Your main objective: survive the full five minutes until help arrives. Use the arrow keys or on-screen touch controls (on mobile) to sneak between rooms, choosing where to hide or when to make your escape. Pay close attention to environmental sounds—footsteps, doors, and whispers may signal the intruder's location.

Interact with the environment by clicking or tapping on objects—some may offer clues or create distractions. Don’t stay in one place too long, but also avoid making too much noise; the AI enemy dynamically reacts to your actions and sound.

If the stranger enters the room you’re in, your only chance is to quickly find a new hiding spot or use any discovered defenses. Tension ramps up every minute, so plan your moves carefully. Each playthrough is a combination of stealth, quick thinking, and guts. Practice, observation, and a calm mind are your best weapons in this unique horror sprint.

Beginner tips: Start with quieter movement and take mental notes of which rooms feel safest. The more you play, the better you’ll get at predicting the AI’s patterns. Share your fastest, most daring escapes online and challenge friends to outlast you!

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Always play with headphones—audio cues are your lifeline and reveal danger.
Switch hiding spots frequently; the intruder learns your patterns over time.
Objects can distract the enemy—experiment with interaction points in each room.
The hallway is risky: time your crossings by listening for distant sounds.
On mobile, use quick swipes for faster room changes but don't rush blindly.
Track the passing minutes—panic rises near the end, but stay patient and focused.
Share your fastest escape times to unlock secret hints from the developer community.

Game Features

Intense five-minute horror experience with real-time AI threat
Atmospheric indie graphics with immersive sound design
No downloads—play instantly in any modern browser or on mobile
Dynamic difficulty and randomized patterns for replay value
Every choice matters—multiple tactics for survival
Built-in fullscreen and audio enhancement for maximum immersion
Community-driven secrets and speedrun-friendly leaderboard potential

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 5 Minutes (Demo) really free to play?

Yes! You can play the demo entirely free in your browser—no downloads or signups required. Developed for a college project, it’s accessible to everyone looking for a quick, thrilling scare.

Can I play 5 Minutes (Demo) on my phone or tablet?

Absolutely! The game is fully mobile compatible and runs smoothly on any modern device. Just open your browser, go fullscreen, and use touch controls for the best experience.

How hard is the game for beginners?

While the difficulty is labeled hard, even new players can pick up the basics quickly. Expect your first runs to be challenging, but each attempt helps you learn the AI’s patterns and improve your survival odds.

Are there any jump scares or graphic content?

5 Minutes (Demo) uses suspense and atmosphere rather than graphic imagery. Expect psychological tension, eerie sounds, and sudden surprises—but nothing explicit or overly violent.

Will there be updates or a full version released later?

As a college project, the demo is a standalone experience, but player feedback and community excitement may inspire future expansions or a complete version. Follow the creator on itch.io for news and development updates!