David Bridges
In Still Wakes the Deep, the essence of horror manifests in various unsettling forms, creating an atmosphere of dread. Eldritch creatures, with grotesque and elongated limbs reminiscent of snapping bungee cords, stalk the Beira D oil rig, their presence a constant source of terror. The corridors are marred by human-sized pustules and bloody ribbons that pulsate with a sickly, cosmic glow, adding to the nightmarish visuals. The North Sea looms as a relentless threat, its wails echoing beneath every cautious step taken. Meanwhile, the rig itself resembles a labyrinthine industrial platform, precariously positioned amidst the raging ocean, groaning under the strain of an internal cataclysm—a truly terrifying experience for players.
The gameplay in Still Wakes the Deep offers an engaging and traditional first-person horror experience, skillfully crafted by The Chinese Room. Players will find themselves executing various actions such as leaping across shattered platforms, maintaining balance on treacherous ledges, sprinting through dimly lit corridors, climbing ladders to escape danger, swimming through claustrophobically tight spaces, and finding refuge from lurking monsters in vents and lockers. Notably, the absence of firearms on the Beira D intensifies the survival aspect of the game, as the protagonist relies solely on a screwdriver to pry open locks and metal panels. This design choice shifts the focus from combat to pure survival, enhancing the overall tension and fear. The game features fully voice-acted performances, with a cast primarily composed of charming Scottish characters, whose lively interactions add a stark contrast to the surrounding carnage once the monstrous threats invade the rig.
Still Wakes the Deep is poised to become an instant horror classic within the gaming community. It masterfully blends heart-pounding terror with moments of laugh-out-loud dialogue, all set against a backdrop that remains largely unexplored in interactive media. Amidst the sneaking, swimming, running, and climbing, the narrative weaves a poignant tale of relationships and sacrifice, enriching the player’s experience and emotional engagement. This unique combination of gameplay mechanics and storytelling makes Still Wakes the Deep a standout title in the horror genre, captivating players with its depth and complexity. — J.C.
Daniel Mercer
