Beneath

Beneath is an exhilarating first-person action horror game that plunges players into the haunting depths of the ocean, where they assume the role of Noah Quinn, a seasoned deep-sea diver. Developed by Camel 101, the creators behind Those Who Remain, Beneath promises a gripping adventure filled with psychological tension and terrifying encounters as players navigate through an underwater world fraught with unimaginable horrors.

Setting and Atmosphere

The game is set in an expansive and eerie underwater environment, which is a departure from traditional horror backdrops like haunted houses or abandoned towns. Instead, Beneath immerses players in the dark, murky waters of the ocean, where light barely penetrates and every corner may hide a lurking threat. Players will explore desolate underwater stations and sunken ships, each filled with secrets waiting to be uncovered. The atmosphere is thick with dread, accentuated by unsettling sound design that enhances the feeling of isolation and impending danger.

Gameplay Mechanics

At its core, Beneath combines resource management with intense combat mechanics. Players must scavenge for limited ammunition while managing their weapons wisely. The game emphasizes that "every shot counts," forcing players to think strategically about when to engage enemies and when to avoid confrontation altogether. This scarcity of resources adds a layer of tension as players must carefully navigate their surroundings to survive.

Sanity System

A unique feature of Beneath is its sanity meter, which plays a critical role in gameplay. Noah Quinn's mental state deteriorates as he encounters grotesque creatures and faces life-threatening situations. Players must maintain Quinn's sanity by avoiding excessive combat and taking time to assess their environment. If his sanity depletes too much, players risk losing control over their character, leading to potentially disastrous consequences. This mechanic not only heightens the horror experience but also mirrors the psychological struggles faced by the protagonist.

Combat and Exploration

Combat in Beneath is designed to be tactical rather than purely action-oriented. Players will face various monstrous entities that require cunning strategies to defeat or evade. The game features adaptive enemy AI that reacts to player actions, making encounters dynamic and unpredictable. Players can customize their weapons with attachments, allowing for a personalized combat experience tailored to individual playstyles.

Exploration is equally crucial as players traverse the ocean floor and underwater stations. The game encourages players to uncover hidden lore and secrets about the deep sea's mysteries while navigating treacherous environments filled with hazards. Destructible environments add another layer of strategy, enabling players to create diversions or find alternate paths when confronted by enemies.

Narrative Depth

Beneath weaves a narrative that intertwines survival horror with psychological elements. As Quinn delves deeper into the abyss, he confronts not only external monsters but also his inner demons. The story unfolds through environmental storytelling and encounters that reveal more about Quinn's troubled past and his descent into madness. This narrative depth elevates Beneath beyond mere jump scares, inviting players to reflect on themes of fear, isolation, and resilience.

Scheduled for release in early 2025 on platforms such as PS5, Xbox Series X/S, and PC, Beneath aims to redefine the horror genre by immersing players in a chilling underwater experience where survival hinges on both physical prowess and mental fortitude. With its innovative mechanics, atmospheric setting, and gripping storyline, Beneath promises to be a standout title for fans of horror and adventure games alike. As players prepare to face the terrors lurking beneath the waves, they must brace themselves for an unforgettable journey into the unknown depths of fear.