“Still Wakes the Deep” had all the makings of a bone-chilling horror game – an offshore Scottish oil rig in the 1970s, meticulously recreated with period-accurate details, and a protagonist navigating a nightmarish deep sea alien transformation. Yet, the game falls short of delivering on the promised fear factor.
From the very beginning, players step into the shoes of Caz, an electrician on the oil rig, surrounded by a hauntingly detailed environment that sets the stage for what should be a spine-tingling experience. The voice acting and dialogue excel in creating an immersive world, with Scottish accents adding another layer of authenticity to the setting.
However, as players delve deeper into the game, it becomes evident that the linear level design severely restricts any sense of exploration. Nearly every path feels predetermined, leaving little room for players to deviate from the set course. This lack of freedom hampers the immersion and sense of discovery that is crucial for a successful horror experience.
Moreover, the gameplay mechanics fail to offer anything fresh or innovative. Familiar tropes like running from monsters, solving simple interactions with labeled machinery, and minimal puzzle-solving contribute to a sense of repetition rather than building tension and suspense. The storyline, while showing glimpses of emotional depth, falls short in delivering on impactful player choices, further disconnecting players from the narrative.
Despite its shortcomings, “Still Wakes the Deep” shines in elements such as art design, voiceover work, and character development. The atmospheric backdrop of the North Sea and the tumultuous storms add layers of intensity to the overall experience. However, these commendable aspects are overshadowed by the game’s rigid structure and lack of player agency.
In conclusion, while “Still Wakes the Deep” has its moments of brilliance, the overall gameplay experience is marred by its linear design and lack of engaging gameplay mechanics. For horror enthusiasts seeking a truly immersive and terrifying adventure, this game may leave them wanting more.
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