“Still Wakes the Deep” offers players a unique narrative experience that delves into the haunting reality of life on an oil rig off the coast of Scotland in 1975. While the game is well-crafted and immersive, the video critique sheds light on how the inclusion of supernatural monsters may not align with the game’s potential for a more grounded and emotionally intense narrative.
The opening sequence sets the tone by portraying a world shaped by the North Sea oil boom, reflecting the tensions and aggressiveness of the era. The game’s characters, embodying toxic masculinity, pave the way for the true horror trope of human nature being the real monster. As the narrative unfolds with grotesque transformations and eerie reminiscences of lost humanity, players are confronted with the harrowing consequences of industrial disasters and corporate negligence.
The critique raises thought-provoking questions about the game’s direction, suggesting that a more focused approach on the human drama and survival aspects could have intensified the emotional impact. By immersing players in the desperate struggle to maintain the oil rig amidst chaos and impending doom, the narrative could have evoked a sense of dread and urgency without the need for supernatural interventions.
The backdrop of Scotland’s historical tragedies, from mining disasters to oil rig accidents, adds a layer of authenticity to the game’s setting. It reflects on the sacrifices and risks taken by individuals striving for a better life, only to face catastrophic outcomes fueled by greed and neglect. The game’s thematic depth resonates with the region’s complex history, intertwining personal tragedies with societal issues of exploitation and loss.
In essence, “Still Wakes the Deep” showcases the potential for storytelling in interactive media, blurring the lines between fiction and reality. By reimagining the game as a focused disaster narrative sans supernatural elements, it opens up avenues for exploring resilience, human nature, and the relentless fight for survival in the face of impending disaster.
