Back to the Dawn is a bold new role-playing game from independent developer Metal Head Games that combines the intensity of a prison-break drama with the freedom of an open role-playing game. With its branching storylines, multi-layered gameplay systems, and richly detailed setting, this game rewards strategic thinking and curiosity in equal measure.
Whether you’re sneaking around in the shadows, building alliances with prisoners, or planning the ultimate escape, Back to the Dawn is packed with meaningful choices and replay value. Here’s how it performs in terms of story, gameplay, graphics, and sound.
Back to the Dawn is now available on Steam and XBOX X | S for $19.99.
Story – Two Heroes, One Prison, Countless Possibilities
The game begins with a simple scenario: you’re locked in Boulderton Prison, facing a ticking clock and a bleak future. You play as either Thomas, a journalist wrongly accused of a crime, or Bob, a secret agent tasked with a dangerous mission. Each character has a unique narrative path, with different challenges, allies, and objectives.
Thomas’ story focuses on stealth, investigation, and social manipulation. Bob’s journey is more structured and action-oriented. While both stories are compelling, Thomas’ path feels particularly relevant, tackling serious themes such as media censorship and political corruption.
What sets Back to the Dawn apart is the way your decisions reverberate throughout the game world. With dozens of prisoners to meet—each with their own goals and secrets—you’re constantly drawn into side stories and moral dilemmas. Since time is limited, you must choose wisely whom to trust, help, or betray.
Choose your past.
Gameplay – Deep Systems That Reward Intelligent Planning
Back to the Dawn is a time-based RPG that challenges you to make the most of each in-game day. You have 21 days to achieve your goal—whether it’s escaping, uncovering a conspiracy, or rising to power inside the prison. Almost every action consumes time, from training in the yard to organizing a heist.
Character development revolves around four core stats: Strength, Agility, Intelligence, and Charisma. These influence the outcomes of dice-based skill checks, such as persuading others, picking locks, or fighting. Items and choices further affect your odds, creating a satisfying blend of luck and strategy.
Resource management plays a key role. You must monitor hunger, hygiene, money, and reputation. Work prison jobs, build alliances, or smuggle contraband to survive and progress.
Combat exists but isn’t the game’s highlight. It’s turn-based and functional but often risky and best avoided unless necessary. Nonviolent tactics and social maneuvering usually yield better outcomes.
Replayability is clearly encouraged. Your first run likely won’t be perfect—and that’s intentional. It helps you learn from your mistakes and refine your strategy.
Replayability is the key.
Graphics and Sound – Elegant and Full of Personality
Visually, Back to the Dawn stands out with expressive 2D sprites and a unique art style that blends gritty prison themes with a cartoonish edge. The use of anthropomorphic animal characters adds personality to every scene and conversation.
Despite the game’s serious subject matter, the visual design brings a sense of charm and levity. Environments are detailed and consistent, with impressive character animations and ambient touches.
The soundtrack, while competent, isn’t particularly memorable. It does a fine job setting the tone, but the visual storytelling is where the game truly shines.
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- Story is pretty interesting.
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- Do your best in prison.
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- Meet your cell mates.
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- Make the most you can in 21 days.
This review was done on PC with a key offered by Renaissance PR.
