The game Still Wakes The Deep, developed by The Chinese Room, plunges players into the dark and foreboding depths of the ocean. As we navigate the treacherous waters along the coast of Scotland in 1975, we are immediately enveloped in an atmosphere of dread and unease. The eerie audio work in the game, from the creaking of the oil rig to the blood-chilling screams of horrifying creatures, sets the stage for a truly horrifying experience. The long-limbed monsters that stalk the player through the rig are a sight to behold, with their distorted cries and twisted forms creating a sense of visceral terror that is hard to shake off.
The sound design in Still Wakes The Deep is truly remarkable, with every sound contributing to the overall sense of dread and foreboding. From the static fizz of malfunctioning electrical systems to the echo of footsteps on oil-covered floors, the game is a masterclass in immersive audio. The voice acting, complete with authentic Scottish accents and rich dialogue, adds another layer of realism to the game, making it feel like a truly authentic and terrifying experience.
While the atmosphere and audio work in Still Wakes The Deep are top-notch, the platforming elements of the game leave something to be desired. With no combat mechanics to speak of, players are left to navigate the collapsing oil rig through a series of repetitive tasks and objectives. While this may serve to reinforce the sense of futility and despair that permeates the game, it also makes for a somewhat monotonous gameplay experience. The lack of variation in tasks and objectives can make the game feel like a slog at times, detracting from the overall immersion and enjoyment of the experience.
Setting the game on an isolated oil rig is a stroke of genius, tapping into deep-seated fears of darkness, isolation, and the unknown. The combination of height, darkness, and the deep ocean creates a sense of claustrophobia and dread that is hard to shake off. The thematic exploration of running away as both the only option and the cause of one’s predicament adds a layer of depth to the narrative, making for a compelling and thought-provoking story. While the emotional backstory could have been more fleshed out, there is still plenty to unpack and analyze long after the credits roll.
Still Wakes The Deep is a cinematic and atmospheric experience that lingers long after the game has ended. With a playtime of roughly 5-6 hours, the game is a relatively short but satisfying experience. The comparison to John Carpenter’s The Thing is apt, as both games evoke a sense of paranoia, desperation, and body horror that is truly unsettling. While the game may not be for the faint of heart, those who enjoy a good scare will find plenty to love in Still Wakes The Deep.
Still Wakes The Deep is a harrowing and immersive horror experience that will leave players on edge from start to finish. The atmospheric setting, chilling audio work, and thought-provoking narrative make for a truly unforgettable experience that is sure to resonate with horror fans. While the platforming elements may leave something to be desired, the overall experience of the game is one that is sure to stick with players long after the final credits roll.
Leave a Reply