Gamefings logoimg

Review of In Other Waters on Nintendo Switch

by Hemal Harris Hemal Harris photo Apr 2020
Cover image of In Other Waters on Switch
Gamefings Score: 8
Platform: Switch Switch logo
Released: 03 Apr 2020
Genre: Adventure
Developer: Jump Over the Age
Publisher: Fellow Traveller

Introduction

Welcome to 'In Other Waters', where the subtitle could very well be 'Think You're a Good Diver?' You've just donned your virtual swimsuit and strapped on your digital snorkel because this game takes you on an intergalactic, underwater exploration of an alien ocean. And the twist? You're not the protagonist; instead, you're an AI trying to help a xenobiologist named Ellery Vas - someone who more than likely didn't pass their swimming lessons when they were a kid. Grab your console and let's see if you can make sense of the chaos lurking beneath those cosmic waves!

Gameplay

Gameplay in 'In Other Waters' is quite unique. We're talking about a game where you don't directly interact with the environment in the traditional sense. Instead, you'll be guiding Ellery through this uncharted alien landscape. Yes, all the power, none of the credit. Your mission: ensuring she doesn't become a fishy sushi roll for any local hungry creatures. You'll manage her life support, collect samples, and analyze the goals she's set. It's a whole lot of navigation, communication, and mental gymnastics, as you play the role of the brain while she does all the swimming. Challenge-wise, be prepared for several layers of skills. First off, navigating this alien water isn't just a case of paddling around aimlessly; you have to interpret Ellery's observations and input to make strategic decisions about where to go and what to gather. Think of it as a blend of a puzzle game and an interactive story - all while dodging the pressure of disappointing an AI who's rising faster than your GPA. By using the onboard systems, you'll manage signals to interact with the environment without ever getting wet (unless your Joy-Con starts to slip from your sweaty palms). Gathering samples is a mini-game in itself, as you'll often have to decipher which alien flora and fauna are critical to your research. This involves some mind-boggling backtracking and can test your memory harder than trying to recall your best friend's birthday after a night out! If you're looking for a game that challenges your strategic thinking and pushes you to think several moves ahead while deciphering an intricate narrative, 'In Other Waters' is your must-play.

Graphics

Visually, 'In Other Waters' may not be the graphics galore we expect from big-name titles, but boy does it give you nostalgia for retro art styles with its soothing color palette and stylishly minimalistic interface. Combine that with beautifully abstract underwater vibes, and you'll feel like you're floating through the digital rendition of an alien dream. This game proves you don't always need stunning graphics to create a mesmerizing aesthetic; just a few swirls of vibrant colors and a lot of creative spirit. Trust me; the graphics are like that pizza you regret eating before summer break - initially, it seems risky, but you'll be craving more as you dive into this alien water world.

Conclusion

In Other Waters is not just another adventure game; it's an experience wrapped in a cozy package of exploration and environmental storytelling. While the challenge relies heavily on your ability to process information and guide the able yet somewhat clueless Ellery, it beautifully marries strategy with a stunning visual narrative. You'll find yourself facing unique challenges that aren't just about what's lurking in the depths but also in deciphering relationships between Ellery and the alien world. So if you're up for swimming through thought-provoking gameplay instead of forging a sword, you'll find that 'In Other Waters' provides the kind of challenge that'll leave you feeling like you just outwitted the aquatic version of a Rubik's cube. And hey, you can always brag about saving an alien scientist's life!

See Latest Prices for In Other Waters on Switch on Amazon

See Prices for In Other Waters on Switch on Ebay

Related
Latest
image for news article 'Sophie Turner Is Lara Croft — How Tomb Raider's Brutal Skill Ceiling Will Shape Amazon's TV Take'
Hemal Harris - 04 Sep 2025
Sophie Turner will play Lara Croft in Amazon's Tomb Raider series. Here's how the show can capture the games' brutal challenge loo...
image for news article 'Gamescom 2025: From Hornet's Revenge to Gunfights in the Future — The Biggest Reveals, Ranked by Hype (and Probability of Screaming)'
Gemma Looksby - 27 Aug 2025
Gamescom 2025 unleashed release dates, surprises, and enough nostalgia to power a retro arcade. Hollow Knight: Silksong finally la...
image for news article 'From Sidekick to Symptom: An In-Depth Look at How Game Characters Grow (and Break) Over Time'
Tanya Krane - 22 Aug 2025
A witty, in-depth analysis of how video game characters evolve - from antiheroes and companions to tragic villains - and how gamep...
image for news article 'Helldivers 2: The Ultimate Skill Test — How to Survive When Friendly Fire Is A Feature'
Hemal Harris - 22 Aug 2025
Helldivers 2 turns cooperative shooters into a terrifying teamwork exam. From friendly-fire fiascos to stratagem juggling and glob...
image for news article 'PlayStation Plus August Drop: Mortal Kombat 1, Spider-Man, Sword of the Sea and Two Resident Evils — Sony’s Buffet of Beatdowns and Beachside Introspection'
Chucky - 22 Aug 2025
Sony's August PlayStation Plus drop mixes Mortal Kombat 1 and Marvel's Spider-Man with day-one indie Sword of the Sea, EDF6 co-op ...
image for news article 'Tariff Drama and Console Character Arcs: How the PS5 Price Hike Recasts PlayStation's Story'
Tanya Krane - 21 Aug 2025
Sony just raised PS5 prices in the US - but this is more than a number. We break down the cast, the catalyst (hello, tariffs), and...
image for news article 'The Nintendo Switch 2: An Overhyped Second Date That Actually Went Well'
Chucky - 14 Jun 2025
Nintendo Switch 2 has hit the market, and it's selling like hotcakes! Here's what you need to know about this slightly improved se...