Status Atag Jun 15, 2026
It's interesting reading the other reviews and how a few people were disappointed by the lack of substance and content. I feel like I had a very different experience playing the game, so here's some thoughts I had that I wasn't sure how to fit into a cohesive review about why I thought the game actually had quite a lot …
It's interesting reading the other reviews and how a few people were disappointed by the lack of substance and content. I feel like I had a very different experience playing the game, so here's some thoughts I had that I wasn't sure how to fit into a cohesive review about why I thought the game actually had quite a lot to say despite the lack of dialogue and traditional story structure.
Transitioning from the peaceful blue depths of the ocean accompanied by whales and squid, to the harsh metallic reality that's poisoning the ocean from below, is something I wasn't prepared for. The contrast between the two is visceral and borderline uncomfortable at times. Despite not seeking out that kind of experience I fell in love what it had to say. The metal underbelly you explore is protected by floating triangular mines that pulse the closer you get to them, threatening to explode. They use these to push you into tight corners, forcing you to navigate carefully around them until you almost feel claustrophobic; strangled by the idea that there is no escape.
What I like about it is that in previous games I've played these kinds of stressful moments would typically be used for the sake of challenge and later accomplishment after you've gotten through the level, except here it feels different, it almost feels like the intention is for you to fail, to feel trapped, for the sake of the narrative that's being told and you're simply meant to experience that and continue on. It really elevates and drives home the harsh, stressful environment which haunts the wildlife in the game. Evocative of what's happening in our own world. The pay off later on and how it then completely flips the mechanics is equally as beautiful and inspiring.
I also appreciate that they've taken a typically vilified animal like the great white shark and instead portrayed them as a thing of beauty that you end up caring for, and ultimately comes to protect you and drive the change that regenerates the ocean. A truly beautiful game both inside and out.
