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Review of Subnautica on PS5

by Max Rathon Max Rathon photo May 2021
Cover image of Subnautica on PS5
Gamefings Score: 9.1
Platform: PS5 PS5 logo
Released: 14 May 2021
Genre: Action-adventure, Survival
Developer: Unknown Worlds Entertainment
Publisher: Unknown Worlds Entertainment

Introduction

Ah, the ocean! A place where sunburn is the least of your worries, and danger lurks beneath waves. 'Subnautica' thrusts you into an underwater paradise/buried nightmare, begging the question: what would you do if your spaceship disintegrated and you found yourself in a liquid equivalent of Pandora's box? Let's dive in and take the plunge into this aquatic wonderland!

Gameplay

In 'Subnautica', you assume the role of Ryley Robinson, a laid-back space traveler who must face an environment that's equally radiant as it is deadly. The primary goal? Survive, explore, and eventually figure out how to escape this watery prison. Think of it as 'Finding Nemo' meets 'The Hunger Games'-and I don't know about you, but I can't swim worth beans. The environment is a beautifully crafted open world, with a variety of unique biomes and creatures to keep you perpetually on your toes-or fins, if you will. Inventory management takes a prominent role, as you'll be collecting everything from algae to alien technology. The crafting mechanics are intuitive, but don't get too cozy; every creature you encounter (looking at you, Reaper Leviathan) wants to make you its next meal. Choose your difficulty mode wisely! You can opt for survival and manage your health and resources, or freelance like you know what you're doing in freedom mode and live the dream without pesky hunger nor thirst. There's also hardcore mode, because who doesn't love a bit of permanent death with their gaming session? For those lucky enough to be blessed with creativity, there's a creative mode that gives you god-like powers (and a deluge of opportunities to construct your underwater castle).

Graphics

Visually, 'Subnautica' is nothing short of gorgeous. It runs on the Unity engine, which may sound like an old friend several years faded, but trust me: these graphics pop! Vibrant colors make the ocean glow like a neon nightclub at midnight. The fauna and flora, while at times quite terrifying, are beautifully designed-each with its own peculiar characteristics and behaviors. Sunlight filtering through the water creates the impression of being enveloped in an opalescent dream, while the detail in the world's ecosystems can make you forget you're playing a game. If you enjoy watching a sunset while listening to the sound of lapping waves, then 'Subnautica' is basically an interactive postcard. Just be cautious of the lurking gloom behind you-those glowing eyes don't belong there. Plus, your PS5 will be thanking you for the graphical finesse with some snappy load times.

Conclusion

With a mix of resource management, exploration, and heart-pounding encounters, 'Subnautica' is a treasure trove of gameplay that satisfies both the adventurous at heart and the hardcore survival enthusiasts. Whether you're seeking an underwater romantic getaway or a perilous thriller, this game consistently delivers suspense topped with unique challenges. So, put on your favorite swimsuit, raise your underwater goggles, and prepare for an experience that will stay with you long after you've resurfaced. Dive deep, explore, craft-eventually, you might just escape the clutches of 4546B. Overall, grab your controller and plunge into the adventure; after all, what's the worst than drowning in a digital ocean filled with thrills and occasional fishy scents? Trust me, you won't regret swimming into 'Subnautica'!

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