Still Wakes the Deep is a horror videogame that was released on June 18th 2024. for PC, PlayStation 5, and Xbox Series X/S.
As someone who tends to be a bit of a scaredy-cat when it comes to horror games, I approached Still Wakes the Deep with a mix of excitement and trepidation. I had previously played the developer’s game Here Comes the Rapture, which impressed me with its narrative depth and atmospheric tension. This familiarity with their work and the fact that this was a more horror-based game heightened my curiosity about how Still Wakes the Deep.
Gameplay and Atmosphere
The game wastes no time plunging you into its dark and foreboding world. From the outset, the atmosphere is thick with tension and mystery. As you navigate through claustrophobic corridors and dimly lit environments, the sense of unease is palpable. The developers have done an excellent job of creating an atmosphere that feels both haunting and strangely beautiful at times. The sound design plays a crucial role here, with subtle cues and unsettling noises adding to the overall sense of dread. The art design only adds to the creep factor, as when you start to encounter the strange amalgamation of whatever the creature is and the oil rig workers, you really start to fear for the protagonist.
Story and Characters
Still Wakes the Deep weaves its narrative through environmental storytelling and flashbacks as well as the occasional collectable note, reminiscent of classic survival horror games. The plot unfolds gradually, revealing layers of mystery and intrigue that kept me invested throughout. The main characters you encounter are well-written but not particularly fleshed out. Not that most of them need to be, as they are generally used as fodder. While some horror games struggle to balance gameplay with storytelling, this one strikes a good balance, ensuring that the narrative enhances the gameplay experience without overshadowing it.
Mechanics and Challenges
Gameplay-wise, Still Wakes the Deep offers a mix of exploration, puzzle-solving, and occasional encounters with terrifying creatures. The puzzles are well-crafted, often requiring careful observation and critical thinking to solve. There is no combat per se, the encounters are generally stealth (it all comes back to hiding in lockers) or just plain running away, but they both rely on strategic positioning. As someone who plays a lot of combat heavy games, I appreciated this game’s emphasis on survival and evasion rather than brute force.
Comparisons to Other Survival Horror Games
In terms of comparisons to other survival horror titles, Still Wakes the Deep holds its own. It draws inspiration from classics like Silent Hill and Resident Evil while bringing its own unique twist to the table. Fans of the genre will find plenty to enjoy here, from the atmospheric environments to the spine-chilling encounters that lurk around every corner.
Trophies/Achievements
As far as these go, Still Wakes the Deep offers a little challenge to those who want to 100% it. Most trophies revolve around finishing chapters, performing certain acts or finding things. Having finished the game story, I am now running through again to collect my missing trophies (hello Scottish Gaelic version). Doing this is no chore, as the game is so well done you just want to keep playing.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Still Wakes the Deep delivers a solid and atmospheric survival horror experience. It manages to blend psychological horror with moments of intense action, keeping players engaged from start to finish. While it may not revolutionize the genre, it certainly stands as a worthy addition to any horror enthusiast’s library. As someone who typically struggles with horror games, I found myself pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed this haunting journey. For its atmosphere, storytelling, and ability to keep me on the edge of my seat, I’m giving it a solid 9/10. It’s a must-play for fans of atmospheric horror and those looking for a chillingly good time.
Gareth Ellis - Author 