Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4.1/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 42,071

Mobile Support: Yes

About Resident Evil: Grim Beginnings (Game Boy Demake)

Step back in time and dive into a haunting reimagining of survival horror with Resident Evil: Grim Beginnings, a bold indie Game Boy demake that brings the original Resident Evil experience to your browser. Crafted solo by a passionate developer stranded abroad during the pandemic, this free HTML5 title is a love letter to both nostalgic handheld gaming and the chilling atmosphere of classic Resident Evil.

Take command as you navigate pixelated, monochrome corridors teeming with tension, mystery, and danger. Every shadow hides secrets, every encounter counts, and every resource is precious. The two-hour adventure expertly distills the terror and suspense of the original, swapping photorealistic graphics for charming, minimalist pixel art—but don’t let the retro visuals fool you. Grim Beginnings delivers modern, pulse-pounding horror in true hardcore fashion.

The game stays true to its roots, featuring challenging puzzles, limited inventory management, and heart-pounding encounters with zombies and mutated threats. Traditional controls—Arrow Keys for movement, Z to interact, X to cancel, Enter for inventory, and Tab for map—bring authenticity to the experience, perfectly suited for both keyboards and mobile devices. Whether you’re a die-hard survival horror veteran or a curious newcomer, this demake captures the uncanny dread and satisfying challenge that made Resident Evil a phenomenon.

Fans of indie games will adore the creative spirit and attention to detail, while those seeking a bite-sized adrenaline rush can relish in mobile-friendly gameplay, quick sessions, and zero installation needs. The unfinished nature of the project doesn’t detract; if anything, it adds mysterious charm, making each room a new discovery. With a completion time of roughly two hours, Resident Evil: Grim Beginnings is as accessible as it is captivating—a must-play for anyone looking to chase pixelated zombies, solve mind-bending puzzles, and relive the golden era of portable gaming.

Ready to unlock the mansion’s secrets? Your new nightmare begins here. Play free in your browser and see how long you can endure the Grim Beginnings.

How to Play

Begin your journey by using the Arrow Keys to move your character through the eerie corridors of the forsaken mansion. Press 'Z' to interact with doors, items, and puzzles—finding crucial keys and hidden objects that will help you advance. Use 'X' to cancel actions or back out of menus, an essential maneuver when under pressure or trying to avoid danger. Your inventory, accessible with the Enter key, is scarce, so manage your items and ammo wisely—deciding what to keep or leave behind can be the difference between survival and doom. The Tab key instantly displays the map, helping you track progress and plan your moves in this sprawling 8-bit labyrinth.

Puzzles are an important aspect—read every note and examine all objects, as clues are often subtly woven into your surroundings. Combat is tense and unforgiving; approach zombies with caution and conserve every bullet. If you're new to survival horror, move slowly, stay alert for audio cues, and investigate every corner for hidden resources. Since Grim Beginnings is browser-based and mobile-friendly, simply load it up on your preferred device—no downloads needed.

Beginner tip: Don’t rush. This game demands patience, attention, and a resourceful mindset. Familiarize yourself with the controls early on, and don’t hesitate to retrace your steps if you’re feeling stuck or low on supplies. Mastering these essentials will turn even the most daunting start into a pulse-pounding victory.

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Always check every room and interactable object—vital supplies and clues are often hidden.
Conserve ammunition; avoid unnecessary fights or use alternate routes to bypass monsters.
Use the map (Tab) frequently to track explored areas and avoid backtracking aimlessly.
Read all in-game notes—puzzle solutions and story hints often hide in plain text.
Only pick up essential items; inventory space is limited, so prioritize keys and healing.
On mobile, tap the virtual controls gently—precision matters during tense chases.
Save your progress at every opportunity (if available)—restarts can be punishing on hard.

Game Features

Authentic Game Boy-style graphics and sound for pure retro vibes
Challenging, hardcore survival horror gameplay true to Resident Evil roots
Browser-based, free-to-play, and fully mobile compatible—play anywhere, anytime
Intricate puzzles and key-hunting to test your logic under pressure
Hand-crafted pixel art environments bursting with nostalgia and tension
Impressive solo development story—created in lockdown, fueled by passion
Quick, accessible two-hour completion time—ideal for casual sessions

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Resident Evil: Grim Beginnings really free to play?

Yes! The game is completely free and playable directly in your browser via itch.io, with no downloads or payments required. Enjoy the full experience at zero cost.

Can I play this game on my mobile device?

Absolutely. The game is optimized for both desktop browsers and mobile devices. The on-screen controls make it easy to play on phones or tablets, letting you enjoy survival horror on the go.

How difficult is the game for newcomers to survival horror?

The game is intentionally set to a hard difficulty level, capturing the original Resident Evil's tense challenge. Don’t worry—careful exploration, puzzle-solving, and attention to clues will help even newcomers survive. Take your time and savor the suspense!

Are there saves or checkpoints in Resident Evil: Grim Beginnings?

While some browser games include save points, this demake’s unfinished status may limit save features. Be prepared to manage your progress, and use in-game opportunities to save if available—approach each session with caution.

Will there be more updates or a finished version released?

Currently, Grim Beginnings is an unfinished solo project. While no future updates are guaranteed, the game's creator may release improvements based on feedback or inspiration—follow the itch.io page for the latest news.