The Rocky Horror Picture Show Is Now a Retro Video Game: Everything You Need to Know

As The Rocky Horror Picture Show approaches its 50th anniversary, it’s gaining new life in the form of a retro-inspired video game, slated for release by Halloween 2024. The game features 8-bit chiptune renditions of the film’s legendary songs, including “The Time Warp,” and offers nostalgic 8-bit graphics that capture the look and feel of the movie’s 1970s retro aesthetic. Combining ’70s vibes with ’80s gaming nostalgia, the game will be available on Sony PlayStation, Xbox, Nintendo Switch, and Steam, allowing fans to experience the Rocky Horror universe in an entirely new way.

The Rocky Horror Picture Show began as a stage musical in 1973 before transforming into a cult classic film in 1975. Remarkably, it remains in limited release even in 2024, nearly 50 years after its debut, making it the longest-running theatrical release in cinema history. The film’s unique tradition of audience participation—featuring live amateur shadow-casts that perform alongside the film—has contributed to its enduring appeal. Audiences often dress up as the characters and interact with the movie in real time, reciting lines, throwing props, and dancing, particularly during its iconic “Time Warp” sequence.

Straight-laced individuals often struggle to understand the appeal of The Rocky Horror Picture Show. Tim Curry, in his prime, embodies a unique blend of charm and sexual ambiguity that captivates audiences. However, while the film is undeniably entertaining, some critics argue that it sometimes feels like a chaotic dash towards a single memorable song rather than a cohesive narrative. The vibrant characters and outlandish scenarios certainly create a distinctive experience, yet for those who prefer a more traditional approach to musicals, the film’s eclectic style may seem excessive or unfocused. Ultimately, The Rocky Horror Picture Show challenges conventional norms, and its offbeat humor and flamboyant performances can leave some viewers feeling perplexed or overwhelmed.

One key factor behind The Rocky Horror Picture Show‘s longevity is a 20th Century Fox policy that allowed theaters to screen archival films at any time. This accessibility has helped cement the film’s place in pop culture, with many theaters screening it annually around Halloween. Today, the movie enjoys a massive international cult following and is widely regarded as one of the greatest musical films of all time.