Still Wakes The Deep is a narrative-driven game that has recently caught the attention of the gaming community, especially with its impending release on Xbox Game Pass. The game brings a gripping experience filled with atmospheric settings and a strong focus on storytelling, set against a backdrop of eerie, nautical themes.
Developed by The Chinese Room, known for their deep narrative and atmospheric games, Still Wakes The Deep offers a chilling adventure into a spooky oil rig where players uncover a personal tale of loss and family. This game deviates from traditional action-packed gameplay, focusing instead on exploration and story, leading to a diverse array of critical receptions focusing on various aspects from storytelling to gameplay mechanics.
From the reviews compiled, a clear appreciation for the game’s storytelling and atmosphere is evident. The Pure Xbox review gave the game an 8/10, lauding its completely engaging narrative adorned with a distinct Scottish flare—filled with shouting and swearing that adds character to the dialogue. They appreciated the lack of combat, which allowed a deeper focus on the rich storytelling and atmospheric exploration, though they mentioned a desire for greater player agency within the game’s setting.
TheSixthAxis delivered an even more favorable verdict with a 9/10 score. The reviewer suggested treating the game like a Netflix mini-series, perfect for binge-playing over a few evenings. Emphasis was placed on the excellent script, acting, and the overall ambiance that rivals well-produced horror flicks, suggesting a passive consumption could be as enjoyable as active participation.
Push Square’s review gave an 8/10, recognizing the game's horror elements inspired by classics like Alien and The Thing. They praised the setting and character development throughout the game, noting how it left a lasting impact despite its short duration.
VGC rated the game 4/5, pointing out the brilliant performances and atmospheric setting that contribute to an engaging story, although they noted that it might not sway critics of the ‘walking sim’ genre who prefer more interactive gameplay elements.
On the other hand, GamesRadar also rated it 4/5 and commented on the game’s linear design which could be quickly completed if objectives are strictly followed. They discussed broader topics like game pricing and development sustainability but concluded that despite its brevity, Still Wakes The Deep offers a successfully moody and engrossing horror experience.
IGN’s review was more critical with a 6/10 rating, acknowledging the game’s artistic and atmospheric strengths but criticizing its almost on-rails structure which limited exploration and engagement, suggesting that watching someone play would offer a similar experience to playing it oneself.
Dot Esports offered the sternest critique with a 4/10 score, expressing disappointment over the depth of character exploration and story, concluding that the game’s horror premise felt unremarkably familiar without sufficient innovation or intrigue to sustain interest.
These varied critiques paint a picture of a game that excels in atmosphere, storytelling, and character development but may fall short in interactivity and engagement for some players. Still, the overall reception indicates strong points that could appeal to fans of narrative-centric games or those looking for a game to experience more passively.
As Still Wakes The Deep makes its debut on Xbox Game Pass, it becomes accessible to a wider audience, potentially broadening its appeal beyond the initial critiques. Gamers interested in deep stories and atmospheric settings might find this game to be a captivating addition to their collection, suggesting a trial through Game Pass could be worthwhile for fans inclined toward narrative-driven adventures.
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