Introduction

You know those games that pull at your heartstrings while simultaneously making you jump out of your seat because aliens are invading? Somerville is exactly that. From the minds at Jumpship, founded by the artists behind the indie classics Limbo and Inside, this game promises emotional storytelling without a single word being uttered. Is this the alternative to alien shooter games we've been waiting for? Let's dive in.

Gameplay

In Somerville, players take on the role of a dedicated father navigating through an eerie world turned topsy-turvy by alien invaders. Forget about flashy dialogue; the game uses **visual storytelling**—that means you got to *think* while playing! Imagine trying to outrun UFOs while pulling heavy carts. You'll need to solve puzzles inspired by platform game mechanics to keep your family together during the head-spinning chaos. As our hero gains alien powers, he learns to manipulate an unusual substance—the color-coded energy transforms entirely based on the light's presence (cue the science fiction fanfare). It’s like playing a game of elemental rock-paper-scissors, but with less dramatic consequences. Overall, the gameplay can feel a bit dated at times, which may leave you yearning for the fast-paced action of more modern titles; however, the unique art direction and emotional stakes keep you invested.

Graphics

When it comes to visuals, Somerville is *honestly* a treat for the eyes. Bathed in moody colors and haunting landscapes, the art style is a curious blend of minimalism and depth that'll have you wondering whether to grit your teeth in suspense or simply gaze in awe. The shadowy animation and light-grazed scenes evoke a sense of isolation as the player travels through abandoned towns and alien-infested areas. The developers clearly had a vision here, painting a deep narrative on an equally engaging canvas. If you ever wondered what art looks like when straddling the line between nostalgic dread and heartfelt warmth, here you go!

Conclusion

Somerville delivers a unique blend of emotional storytelling coupled with engaging—and occasionally frustrating—gameplay. It's a meditative experience that will undoubtedly resonate with fans of story-driven games. While it doesn't hold your hand or bombard you with spoken exposition, the combination of ambient sound and stunning visuals immerses you deeply into this world, leaving you to ponder your choices at the end. In a gaming landscape often painted with loud guns and sprawling worlds, Somerville is a refreshing breath of fresh air—if fresh air comes with a side of chilling suspense. Although it may not be universally appealing to everyone, it’s a commendable first effort from Jumpship that leaves us excited for what's to come. Just remember, keep your lights on while playing, or you might be tempted to question your life choices amidst the nagging abyss of outer space!

See Latest Prices for Somerville on Xbox Series X/S on Amazon