Release Date: August 29, 2023
A TPP adventure game about dealing with loss. In Under the Waves, we play the role of a professional diver who ventures into the ocean depths to try to come to with his traumatic past and accept his new future.
Under the Waves is an adventure game, themed around coping with loss. The game was developed by the independent team Parallel Studio, and was published by Quantic Dream.
Under the Waves takes place in an alternate, retro-futuristic version of the year 1979. The protagonist is Stan, a professional diver, who's suffered a loss that changed his life. Trying to come to with it, as well as to accept his new future, Stan ventures down into the depths of the North Sea. Exploring the oceanic abyss in solitude, the protagonist experiences visions, his mental condition made manifest. It's up to the player whether he'll resurface, or forever remain under the titular waves.
The action in Under the Waves is observed from a third-person perspective (TPP). The player can traverse the oceanic depths, gaze upon their wonders and inhabitants, as well as discover its secrets. During our journey we'll encounter animals, plants, wrecks, caves and even underwater complexes. We'll spend most of our time at the helm of a special boat, although thanks to an underwater suit, Stan can leave it and explore the discovered areas by himself, searching for useful items, collectibles and information. Doing so lets the player find resources, used to craft helpful items.
Under the Waves is a visually impressive title. The underwater landscapes, well-animated sea life and dense vegetation are especially appealing, although the realistic lighting is also worthy of praise. These visuals are accompanied by an atmospheric soundtrack.
Platforms:
PC Windows
PlayStation 4
Xbox One
PlayStation 5
Xbox Series X/S
Developer: Parallel Studio
Publisher: Quantic Dream
Age restrictions: 16+
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System Requirements for Under the Waves Video Game:
PC / Windows
Minimum System Requirements:
Intel Core i5-4460 3.2 GHz / AMD Ryzen 3 4100 3.8 GHz, 8 GB RAM, graphic card 4 GB GeForce GTX 1050 Ti / Radeon R9 290 or better, 10 GB HDD, Windows 10.
Recommended System Requirements:
Intel Core i7-7700 3.6 GHz / AMD Ryzen 5 3600 3.6 GHz, 16 GB RAM, graphic card 6 GB GeForce GTX 1660 / 8 GB Radeon RX Vega 56 or better, 10 GB HDD, Windows 10/11.
Game Ratings for Under the Waves Video Game.
Guardian: 3 / 5 by Keza MacDonald
Playing a professional diver maintaining undersea oil pipes may sound like an odd premise for a game, but it's so peaceful down there
Impulsegamer: 3.5 / 5 by Alex Novus
Under the Waves on the XSX is a very unique and emotional experience that may not be for everyone, especially if you have just lost a friend or loved one. While the game will only be played once due to the content, it is quite a unique and memorable title that successfully addresses how grief is handled with the backdrop of a very component game set deep under the sea. All in all, the developers should be commended on this beautiful game that really sets itself from other titles at the moment on this next-gen console.
Game Rant: 3 / 5 by Brie Hoban
Under the Waves delivers an incredibly emotional story about grief and its ability to manifest in the realities of those who attempt to evade it. While the title's main narrative is powerfully effective, its secondary focus on environmentalism, fueled by a real-world partnership, diminishes the overall impact of the experience. Though its close-up visuals and optional objectives are marred by technical issues, the core of Under the Waves' gameplay is enough to keep players engaged in its mandatory tasks. The story of Stan is one many fans will resonate with, as it captures the difficult thoughts that accompany grief. Unfortunately, Under the Waves doesn't quite deliver a gaming experience deserving of such meaningful concepts.
Average score from votes.