Still Wakes the Deep: More Than a Sum of Its Parts

A First-Person Dive into Underwater Horror

Still Wakes the Deep, the latest from acclaimed developer The Chinese Room, takes players on a haunting underwater journey. As a first-person North Sea horror, the game captivates with its atmospheric visuals and tense exploration.

Where's the Scare?

Despite its genre classification, Still Wakes the Deep's horror elements fall short of inducing substantial fear. While the game evokes a sense of unease and isolation, it lacks the jump scares or terrifying encounters that characterize many traditional horror experiences.

Beyond the Lack of Fear

Fortunately, Still Wakes the Deep compensates for its lack of scares with a compelling narrative. The story, which unfolds through environmental storytelling and cryptic audio logs, is both intriguing and emotionally resonant. The focus on psychological tension and atmospheric exploration creates a unique and immersive experience.

A Linear Adventure

However, the game's linearity proves to be a double-edged sword. While it ensures a streamlined and focused narrative, it also limits exploration and replayability. The strict adherence to a predetermined path can hinder the sense of freedom and discovery often found in horror games.

The Verdict: A Deep Dive Worth Taking

Overall, Still Wakes the Deep is a well-crafted adventure that excels at creating atmosphere and tension. While its horror elements may not be as pronounced as expected, the game more than makes up for it with its captivating story and unique underwater setting. For fans of atmospheric horror and compelling narratives, Still Wakes the Deep is a dive worth taking.