6 Comments
graphics go crazy underwater, the lighting, the particles, the sense of scale — super immersive
game’s a bit slow early on but once the story ramps up… whew
you feel that emotional weight hit hard
- @sk8board Apr 11
I got chills during that one memory flashback scene not spoiling, but y’all will know it when it happens
had some performance hiccups for me but nothing game-breaking still hit that eerie tone hard
underrated gem tbh, if you liked Firewatch or What Remains of Edith Finch, this one’s for you
Good to know:
- Xbox Live Key
- Rating: 3.5 of 5
About this item:
- Narrative-Driven Underwater Adventure: Set in a techno-futuristic 1970s, this emotional journey follows professional diver Stan as he explores the depths of the North Sea while processing a personal loss.
- Atmospheric Storytelling: Experience a meditative tale about isolation, grief, and letting go. The story unfolds through exploration, subtle environmental cues, and Stan’s interactions with his surroundings.
- Immersive Undersea World: Discover wrecks, oil rigs, marine wildlife, and strange anomalies in a beautifully rendered underwater landscape filled with secrets and surprises.
- Submarine and Diving Gameplay: Navigate vast seascapes in your personal submersible or suit up and dive to explore caverns, collect materials, and uncover hidden story elements.
- Eco-Thematic Undertones: The game explores humanity’s relationship with nature, loss, and mental health, presenting emotional weight alongside serene exploration.
- Unique Visual Style and Sound Design: A blend of realism and surrealism, enhanced by an ambient, melancholic soundtrack that mirrors the game’s reflective tone.
Game Details:
- Developer: Parallel Studio
- Publisher: Quantic Dream
- Release Date: August 29, 2023
- Genre: Adventure, Exploration, Narrative
- Modes: Single-player
- Platform: Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S
YouTube:
Under the Waves Xbox: Should You Dive In?
Highlights and Advantages:
- Immersive and atmospheric underwater exploration.
- A compelling and emotionally resonant narrative.
- Unique gameplay mechanics centered around scuba diving and exploration.
Similar Games:
- Subnautica: Offers a broader scope of exploration and base-building, providing a greater sense of survival.
- ABZÛ: Focuses more on a serene and beautiful underwater experience with less emphasis on narrative.
- SOMA: Provides a darker and more horror-focused underwater experience with a stronger emphasis on philosophical themes.
What You Need to Know Before Buying:
Before purchasing Under the Waves, consider your preference for narrative-driven versus gameplay-focused experiences. The game prioritizes story and atmosphere over complex mechanics or large-scale gameplay elements. Ensure your Xbox console meets the minimum system requirements for the game. Lastly, be aware of potential motion sickness; underwater environments can trigger motion sickness in some players, so proceed with caution if you're susceptible.
Extra Tips:
- Read reviews from other players to gauge your expectations of the narrative and pacing.
- Watch gameplay trailers to see if the visual style and atmosphere resonate with you.
- Check for accessibility options to ensure the game meets your needs.
- Consider your tolerance for slower-paced, narrative-focused games.
- Look for potential post-launch updates or DLC, as they may enhance the overall experience.
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6 Comments
graphics go crazy underwater, the lighting, the particles, the sense of scale — super immersive
game’s a bit slow early on but once the story ramps up… whew
you feel that emotional weight hit hard
I got chills during that one memory flashback scene not spoiling, but y’all will know it when it happens
and the music?? that soft ambient synth stuff had me floating IRL
had some performance hiccups for me but nothing game-breaking still hit that eerie tone hard
underrated gem tbh, if you liked Firewatch or What Remains of Edith Finch, this one’s for you