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Under The Waves

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Under The Waves
Item: Under The Waves
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2023

GenresAdventure, Indie, Third Person Perspective, Simulation, Single Player

AvailableAug 28, 2023

PlatformPlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X, PC, Xbox One

DeveloperParallel Studio

Overview

Under the Waves is a narrative-driven adventure game about the engulfing power of grief. Set in the depths of the North Sea in a techno-futuristic 1970s, professional diver Stan is struggling to overcome a life-changing loss and embrace a new future. The isolation of the deep sea is a fitting manifestation of his state of mind, and as Stan retreads further into his self-imposed solitude, he starts to experience strange events far beneath the waves. Stuck between life and death, Stan will have to make the most significant choice of his existence.

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Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

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Story and Narrative

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TL;DR

"Under The Waves" is praised for its emotional depth and poignant exploration of grief and environmental themes, with strong character development and heartfelt dialogue. However, it faces criticism for pacing issues, a rushed ending, and unclear motivations, leading some to feel its delivery is heavy-handed. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking experience that resonates despite its execution flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

65%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

30%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The story of "Under The Waves" has garnered a generally positive reception among critics, who commend its emotional depth and thematic richness. Reviewers like Finger Guns and Game Rant highlight the game’s poignant exploration of grief, with Finger Guns noting its elegant handling of the subject matter and eco-conscious elements. Critics such as Gameblog.fr and PlayStation Universe appreciate the heartfelt dialogue and character development, allowing players to connect deeply with Stan, the protagonist. The narrative's ability to intertwine personal trauma with broader environmental themes has been recognized by several, including IGN Spain, who mention the mature storytelling that addresses solitude and ecological concerns. Overall, the game is described as engaging and thought-provoking, with its underwater setting serving as a metaphor for the protagonist's internal struggles. However, the narrative also faces criticism for its execution and pacing. Some reviewers, like Adventure Game Hotspot and CD-Action, point out that the story misses opportunities for deeper exploration, with Adventure Game Hotspot specifically mentioning a rushed ending. Critics like TheGamer and IGN Spain note that the protagonist's motivations can sometimes feel unclear or poorly developed, which detracts from the overall impact of the story. Additionally, several reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and COGconnected, mention that the delivery of themes can be heavy-handed or pretentious, leading to a diluted message that may not resonate with all players. The pacing of the narrative has also been described as slow and scattered, potentially affecting player engagement. In conclusion, the overall consensus among critics is that "Under The Waves" presents a compelling narrative that successfully tackles themes of grief, loss, and environmental issues, though it is not without its flaws. While many reviewers appreciate the emotional weight and thematic ambition of the story, they also highlight shortcomings in execution and pacing that prevent it from reaching its full potential. Critics like TierraGamer and TechRadar Gaming affirm that despite these issues, the game offers a touching and thought-provoking experience that resonates with players, making it a narrative worth exploring.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

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TL;DR

Under The Waves impresses with its immersive ocean exploration and meditative atmosphere, drawing praise for player freedom and engaging objectives. However, critics point out significant flaws: simplistic gameplay, slow pacing, clunky controls, and repetitive tasks undermine the experience. The crafting system feels underdeveloped, and navigation issues add to player frustration. Overall, while it creates a captivating ambiance, the lack of depth and variety in gameplay leaves players wanting more.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

88%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Under The Waves has garnered a range of positive feedback from critics, highlighting its immersive exploration and engaging atmosphere. Reviewers like Adventure Game Hotspot and Finger Guns noted that the game excels in creating a meditative experience through oceanic exploration, with players collecting debris and discovering wreckages. Critics such as IGN Spain praised the freedom and control players have in navigating the underwater world, while others like TierraGamer appreciated the varied objectives that keep players engaged. The game's emphasis on exploration, resource management, and the unique setting of the North Sea has resonated well with many, contributing to a sense of solitude and immersion that is central to the experience. However, several critics pointed out significant drawbacks in the gameplay mechanics. Many reviews, including those from GamePro Germany and Game Rant, mentioned the simplicity of the gameplay, which often lacks depth and complexity. Critics like Guardian and PlayStation Universe highlighted issues with slow pacing, clunky controls, and a lack of challenging puzzles, suggesting that the gameplay can feel repetitive and uninspired over time. Furthermore, the crafting system received mixed reviews, with some, such as Metro GameCentral and SpazioGames, deeming it unnecessary and underdeveloped, which detracts from the overall experience. Navigation issues and vague objectives were also cited as sources of frustration by multiple reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com and Multiplayer.it. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while Under The Waves offers an engaging and immersive exploration experience, it is hampered by a lack of depth in gameplay mechanics and repetitive tasks. Critics like GamingBolt and TheGamer noted that the core gameplay loop, while functional, does not provide enough variety to sustain long-term engagement. The combination of exploration, light survival mechanics, and crafting creates a unique atmosphere, but many reviewers feel that the execution falls short of its potential. As a result, Under The Waves is seen as a title that excels in creating an atmospheric experience but struggles with gameplay depth and complexity, leaving players with mixed feelings about its overall impact.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

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TL;DR

"Under The Waves" dazzles with stunning underwater visuals and a captivating art style, earning praise for its immersive atmosphere and emotional depth. However, critics slam its technical execution for issues like glitches, low-quality animations, and a lack of polish, particularly on PS5. The game excels artistically but struggles to fully deliver due to these shortcomings, leading to divided opinions on its overall impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

63%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of "Under The Waves" have garnered significant praise from various critics, highlighting the game's stunning underwater landscapes and artistic choices. Reviewers like Adventure Game Hotspot and Game Rant laud the breathtaking visuals, with Adventure Game Hotspot describing them as a combination of "stunning" and "beautiful depictions of the ocean and its inhabitants." Critics such as Finger Guns and Gameblog.fr emphasize the game's effective use of color and light, creating an immersive atmosphere that captures the essence of underwater exploration. The unique blend of realism and cartoon aesthetics is noted by multiple reviewers, including GamePro Germany, who appreciates the "timeless and beautiful visual style," and GamingBolt, who commends the art direction for its evocative sequences. Overall, the visuals are celebrated for their ability to convey emotion and create a captivating environment, as noted by critics like TierraGamer and TechRadar Gaming. However, despite the acclaim, there are notable criticisms regarding the technical execution of the graphics. Several reviewers, including IGN Spain and VGC, point out issues such as graphical glitches, popping, and low-quality character animations, which detract from the overall experience. Multiplayer.it expresses disappointment in the game's visuals on the PS5, describing them as "not impressive" and suggesting that the focus on narrative may have overshadowed the visual quality. Critics like Jeuxvideo.com and SpazioGames echo these sentiments, citing a lack of technical polish and high-quality textures that prevent the game from reaching its full potential. The presence of these technical imperfections, particularly in character animations and environmental details, raises concerns about immersion, as highlighted by Guardian and PlayStation Universe. In summary, the overall consensus among critics is that "Under The Waves" features a visually striking and artistically rich underwater world, but it is marred by technical shortcomings that hinder its full impact. While many reviewers, such as GGRecon and The Games Machine, appreciate the captivating environments and unique art style, others like IGN Spain and VGC caution that the graphical issues can detract from the experience. Ultimately, the game succeeds in creating an atmospheric and immersive setting, but the balance between artistic vision and technical execution remains a point of contention among critics.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

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TL;DR

Under The Waves has received rave reviews for its atmospheric sound design and enchanting soundtrack, which enhances the underwater exploration experience and evokes emotional depth. Critics laud the music for its relaxing, melancholic vibe that aligns with themes of existentialism. However, some note inconsistencies with emotional alignment and voice acting that disrupt immersion. Overall, the sound design significantly enriches the game, despite minor critiques.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

89%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

11%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Under The Waves have garnered widespread acclaim from critics, who consistently highlight the game's atmospheric qualities. Many reviewers, including Adventure Game Hotspot and Gameblog.fr, praised the soundtrack as breathtaking and enchanting, enhancing the overall immersion of the underwater experience. Critics like GamePro Germany and IGN Spain emphasized the relaxing and melancholic nature of the music, which effectively complements the game's themes of exploration and existentialism. The compositions by Nicolas Bredin were particularly noted for their ability to evoke emotional depth, with several critics, such as VGC and TechRadar Gaming, commending how the music enhances the narrative's emotional impact. The ambient soundscapes, described as serene and meditative by GGRecon and The Games Machine, further solidify the game's ability to transport players into its underwater world. However, not all feedback was entirely positive, as some critics pointed out certain shortcomings in the sound design. Finger Guns noted that while the music generally reinforced the atmosphere, there were instances where it did not align with the emotional beats of the game, leading to abrupt halts. Multiplayer.it echoed this sentiment, suggesting that the soundtrack could occasionally feel intrusive, detracting from the overall experience. Additionally, GamingBolt and TheGamer raised concerns about the voice acting, with some performances lacking emotional depth and authenticity, which could disrupt the immersive quality that the sound design aims to achieve. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Under The Waves features a very good sound design and music that significantly enhance the gaming experience. The majority of reviews reflect a strong appreciation for the atmospheric qualities and emotional resonance of the soundtrack, with many critics, such as TierraGamer and PlayStation Universe, affirming its role in creating an immersive underwater exploration experience. While there are some critiques regarding specific elements like voice acting and occasional musical dissonance, the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the game's successful integration of sound and music into its narrative and environmental storytelling.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

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TL;DR

"Under The Waves" features strong voice acting, especially Ben Lambert's portrayal of protagonist Stan, which adds emotional depth. Critics praise engaging dialogue and quality performances, including French voiceovers. However, significant flaws like poor lip-syncing and monotone delivery hinder immersion, leading to a mixed reception. While the voice work enhances the narrative, technical issues dampen its overall impact.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

59%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

37%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in "Under The Waves" has received a mix of praise and critique, with several reviewers highlighting its strengths. Critics like PlayStation Universe and TechRadar Gaming commend the voice acting for adding depth to the narrative and effectively conveying the emotional pain of the protagonist, Stan. Ben Lambert's performance is frequently noted as a standout, with GamesRadar+ and TheXboxHub specifically praising his ability to capture the character's feelings and loneliness. The dialogue is often described as well-written and engaging, contributing positively to the overall storytelling experience, as pointed out by Everyeye.it and But Why Tho?. Additionally, Jeuxvideo.com notes that the French voice performances are excellent, providing a compensatory effect for the technical shortcomings in lip synchronization. However, the voice acting is not without its flaws, as many critics have pointed out significant issues that detract from the overall experience. Adventure Game Hotspot mentions that while the voice acting is great, lip sync issues hinder immersion. Similarly, GGRecon and Multiplayer.it criticize the protagonist's monotone delivery and lack of emotional expressiveness, which can pull players out of critical moments. Furthermore, several reviewers, including CD-Action and VGC, highlight the poor lip-syncing and limited emotional range as significant drawbacks, suggesting that these technical issues undermine the intended emotional impact of the performances. Overall, the consensus among critics indicates that while the voice acting in "Under The Waves" has commendable elements, particularly in the performances of the lead actor, it is marred by technical shortcomings such as lip-syncing issues and varying levels of expressiveness. Critics like COGconnected and TRG acknowledge the quality of the voice acting but also point out that the script can lack subtlety and emotional depth at times. Thus, while the voice work contributes positively to the game's narrative, the inconsistencies in delivery and synchronization create a mixed reception, leading to an overall sentiment that appreciates the strengths but cannot overlook the notable weaknesses.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

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TL;DR

"Under The Waves" showcases decent visuals and runs reasonably well on PS5 and Xbox Series X, but suffers from serious technical flaws like crashes, glitches, and frame rate issues across all platforms. Critics agree that while it has potential, the game's numerous bugs and lack of polish severely undermine the experience, resulting in a mixed reception.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

81%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

19%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In terms of technical performance, "Under The Waves" has garnered some positive feedback across the different gaming platforms. On the PS5, several critics noted that the game does provide a visually decent experience despite its technical shortcomings. For instance, Jeuxvideo.com mentioned that while the game lacks the polish of Quantic Dream productions, it still offers a satisfactory visual experience. Additionally, some reviewers, like The Games Machine, pointed out that the game runs well overall with only minor bugs that could be addressed in future patches. On Xbox Series X, Impulsegamer highlighted that while bugs were present, they did not significantly detract from the overall experience, suggesting that the game is still enjoyable despite its flaws. On PC, Games.cz noted that the game generally runs smoothly at 60 FPS, which is a positive aspect for players seeking performance. However, the negatives for each platform paint a more troubling picture. On PS5, the technical issues are numerous, with critics like Finger Guns and IGN Spain pointing out serious problems such as screen tearing, crashes, and unsynced animations that can severely impact gameplay. Game Rant and Guardian echoed similar sentiments, detailing issues like clipping and fatal errors that force players to repeat progress. On Xbox Series X, the situation is not much better, with TheXboxHub mentioning glitches and crashes that could frustrate players, despite the presence of generous save points to mitigate backtracking. On PC, while some reviewers noted smoother performance, there were still significant complaints about bugs, frame rate issues, and character glitches, as highlighted by INVEN and TechRadar Gaming, which detract from the overall immersion and enjoyment of the game. The overall consensus among critics across all platforms is that "Under The Waves" suffers from a variety of technical issues that hinder the gaming experience. While there are some redeeming qualities, such as decent visuals and smooth performance on PC, the prevalence of bugs, crashes, and graphical glitches is a common theme in reviews. Critics like TierraGamer and VGC emphasized that these technical problems can be frustrating and impact the overall enjoyment of the game. Even with the acknowledgment of potential patches and fixes, the consensus remains that the game currently lacks the necessary polish and stability that players expect from a title in this genre, leading to a mixed reception overall.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

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TL;DR

Critics praise "Under The Waves" for its engaging missions and immersive exploration but slam its replay value. Key issues include a lack of branching paths, minimal incentives for side activities, and a stagnant open world. While the emotional narrative may warrant a second playthrough, the game ultimately offers a singular experience with limited reasons for revisiting.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

75%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

In analyzing the opinions of various critics regarding the replay value of "Under The Waves," it is evident that some aspects of the game are appreciated. Critics like GamesRadar+ highlight the meaningful missions and collectibles that enrich the narrative, suggesting that there is some player agency within a compelling gameplay loop. Additionally, TheSixthAxis mentions the immersive experience of exploration, with collectibles and crafting materials incentivizing players to delve deeper into the game world. Some reviewers, such as IGN Spain and VGC, acknowledge the decent amount of content and side activities available, which can extend the playtime and provide a degree of exploration beyond the main story. However, a significant number of critics express concerns about the game's replay value. Everyeye.it and TierraGamer both note the lack of significant branching paths or multiple endings, which severely limits the incentive for players to revisit the game after completing the story. Critics like GamingBolt and TheGamer emphasize that while the game offers optional content, the rewards do not feel essential, leading to a lack of interest in secondary activities after the initial playthrough. Furthermore, TechRadar Gaming and TRG point out the empty open world and linear narrative, which contribute to a sense of stagnation once the main storyline has been experienced. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while "Under The Waves" provides a unique and emotional journey, its replay value is notably limited. Many reviewers, including Hobby Consolas and Impulsegamer, suggest that while the narrative may encourage at least one additional playthrough, the absence of compelling gameplay mechanics and varied endings diminishes the overall replayability. The game appears to be designed more for a singular, impactful experience rather than for repeated playthroughs, leaving many players feeling that once the story has been completed, there is little reason to return.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

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OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

34%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

64%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

The overall sentiment regarding "Under The Waves" from various critics is predominantly positive, highlighting its emotional depth, stunning visuals, and immersive atmosphere. Reviewers like Adventure Game Hotspot and Gameblog.fr commend the game for its beautiful design and strong storytelling, emphasizing the impactful narrative that resonates with players. Critics such as But Why Tho? and TRG also appreciate the game’s ability to evoke emotions and create a unique experience through its exploration of themes like grief and environmentalism. The game is frequently described as captivating, with many reviewers noting its artistic direction and the effectiveness of its sound design, which enhances the overall experience. However, despite its strengths, "Under The Waves" is not without its flaws. Many critics point out technical issues, such as audio and video sync problems and gameplay mechanics that are considered simplistic or repetitive. For instance, Game Rant and GamingBolt mention that technical shortcomings and forced messaging detract from the overall impact of the experience. Critics like Multiplayer.it and CD-Action express concerns about the heavy-handed delivery of environmental themes, suggesting that these elements feel awkwardly integrated into the gameplay. The pacing and narrative structure also receive criticism, with some reviewers, including Jeuxvideo.com, noting that the slow-paced narrative and laborious tasks can hinder engagement. Overall, the consensus among critics is that "Under The Waves" is a commendable first effort from Parallel Studio, with a well-crafted narrative and emotional resonance that outweigh its technical shortcomings. While some reviewers, like GGRecon and Push Square, acknowledge the game's imperfections, they still find it to be an engaging and worthwhile experience for players who appreciate narrative-driven games. The game is seen as a unique offering that, despite its flaws, successfully captures the beauty and complexity of the oceanic environment and the human experience within it. As such, it is recommended for fans of atmospheric storytelling, though potential players should be aware of its technical limitations.

TL;DR

"Under The Waves" garners praise for its emotional storytelling, stunning visuals, and immersive atmosphere, resonating deeply with players. Critics highlight its artistic direction and sound design but note technical issues, simplistic gameplay, and awkwardly integrated environmental themes. Despite these flaws, it’s considered a commendable debut from Parallel Studio, appealing to fans of narrative-driven games, though players should be prepared for its technical shortcomings.

MONSTER

Reviews

62 reviews found

PC Games

Aug 29, 2023