This is a fairly recent game. Bendy and the Ink Machine, a horror puzzle game developed by Joey Drew Studios and released in 2017, first emerged with a prototype demo on February 10, 2017. This early version, created by just two developers, theMeatly and Mike Mood, featured the initial chapter, Moving Pictures. Significantly shorter than later iterations, it lacked many features added during the game’s evolution.
The graphics of the prototype reveal stark differences compared to the final version. Bendy’s cutout design was entirely flat as if made of paper instead of cardboard, with gloves featuring three darts instead of the two buttons seen later. Ink Bendy’s design was particularly striking, with a human-like head, thin horns, and no arms or legs, earning it the nickname “Bird Poop With a Smile” from the developers. The Boris clone also had a simpler, less refined model.
Gameplay in the prototype was more straightforward. Objectives were fewer in number, items appeared automatically in the break room upon collection, and interactions like activating the Ink Machine lacked the polished animations and sound effects introduced later. The environment was less developed, with locked doors and limited areas to explore.
This prototype remains a fascinating snapshot of Bendy and the Ink Machine’s development, showcasing the initial vision and offering insight into the creative process that led to the full game.
00:00 Chapter One: Moving Pictures
00:48 Find the Ink Machine
01:57 Turn on the Machine
02:35 Fix the Ink Machine
09:44 Restore Ink Pressure
11:16 I’m getting the hell out of here!
12:21 Clear an old Path
12:52 Credits