Conrad B. Hart
The protagonist, a scientist who loses his memory after uncovering an alien conspiracy. He must reconstruct his identity and stop the threat.
Documented for this version
D-pad | Move Conrad and aim the pistol while it is drawn. |
|---|---|
A | Draw or fire the pistol, depending on Conrad's current weapon state. |
B | Jump. |
C | Use, pick up, or activate nearby objects. |
Control details apply to the standard three-button Sega CD controller.
Some actions are contextual and depend on Conrad's position and equipment.
How it plays
The game uses a side-view perspective across seven large stages set on planets and in futuristic facilities. Conrad must explore each area, recover information, solve access and equipment puzzles, and reach the next objective while avoiding traps, guards, mutants, and aliens.
Players run, jump, draw and fire a pistol, pick up objects, activate devices, and use special equipment. Progress depends on finding key items and learning safe routes. Checkpoints and limited lives make reconnaissance important, since a failed jump or collision can restart a section.
Plan your run
Observe enemy patterns before moving, and avoid rushing across unfamiliar ledges. Draw the pistol before entering dangerous rooms, but do not waste time firing when a jump or retreat is safer.
Search every area for access cards, shields, teleportation devices, and other required objects. Keep a checkpoint or life in reserve when possible, and learn each stage's route before attempting its most demanding jumps.
Meet the cast
The protagonist, a scientist who loses his memory after uncovering an alien conspiracy. He must reconstruct his identity and stop the threat.
Conrad's ally, who helps him after the opening escape and provides important information during the investigation.
Before you begin
Use short, controlled movements near ledges and traps.
Explore side paths for key items before committing to the main route.
Memorize enemy timing and checkpoint locations.
Editorial context
The Sega CD edition is notable for its atmospheric CD audio and cinematic presentation.
Its precise but unforgiving platforming remains the main point of debate among players.
Flashback: The Quest for Identity is a cinematic action-platform game developed by Delphine Software International and released for the Sega CD in 1994. It follows Conrad B. Hart, an amnesiac scientist stranded on an alien world after discovering a dangerous conspiracy. The game combines rotoscoped character animation, exploration, precision platforming, gunplay, and environmental puzzles rather than traditional arcade-style jumping. The Sega CD version retains the original adventure while adding CD-quality music, enhanced audio, and voiced or expanded presentation elements. Its deliberate movement and instant-death hazards demand careful observation. Flashback was widely regarded as a technically impressive and atmospheric console adventure, although its difficulty and sometimes unforgiving controls divided players.
Catalog entry maintained by EmuGamers Editorial Team
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