Writing for Giant Bomb, Nina Freeman praised the initial compilation as one of the best games of 2020, highlighting them as a "good source of discovery" through "hand-done curation" in contrast to algorithm-based recommendations.

[8] Heather Alexandra of Kotaku praised the variety of the compilation, stating the game was "packed to the brim with tons of different approaches to horror and tension.

"[10] The Demo Disc series has been noted for its role in bringing attention to an emerging genre of independent horror games influenced by the graphics of the PlayStation.

[11] Writing for SUPERJUMP, Anthony Wright noted the Demo Disc series was a "great platform for (developers) to gain attention towards their efforts" and "showcase their talents to the industry", as well as "encouraging an increasing number of players to dip their feet into the retro-styled horror landscape.

"[9] Writing for The Verge, Alexander Chatziioannou, in a review of the resurgence of the "retro horror" genre, stated that the series "(has) revitalized a format oddly neglected in the medium".