SOMA

Frictional Games has been known for Amnesia and the Penumbra series previously. Now they have created SOMA, which is ultimately more of the same kind of gameplay, which makes it tedious, but it has without a doubt the best setting, writing and plot themes.

You awaken on the underwater research facility known as PATHOS-2, where scientists and engineers have worked together on marine based technology and sustainability, as well as a project called ARK, meant to safe humanity.

SOMA is a science fiction survival horror game with control mechanics very similar to Amnesia such as having no combat, being able to hide and being advised not to look at the enemies, which are by the way quite dissapointing.

Simon and Catherine are the main characters, but they aren't humans anymore. As the plot develops, you will learn more about what went horribly wrong on the surface, at PATHOS-2 and at of course themselves. Let's just say that terms such as transhumanism, cancer and evolution are all relative and part of the premise.

Despite their lack of humanity(depending on your perspective and opinion), the relationship between Simon and Catherine was still very human like. And the goal of reaching the ARK while going through various facilities reminded me kind of the route the space marine took with Doom 3.

As far as interactivity and puzzles go, SOMA did a fine job with those, as there was diversity to be found, and there was almost no hand-holding to be found. The pacing was once again content but I wouldn't want to replay this anytime soon.

Again, the various terminals reminded me of Doom 3's GUI as well. The Omnitool is simply a plot device with upgradable chips which allow you to get further in the game. How SOMA ends is depressing as well as hopeful, making it a highlight.

However, on a whole, I feel that Frictional Games needs to step up their innovation in regards to gameplay and mechanics if you ask me. SOMA is good for a run, but I feel that if their next project will be similar, then their reputation will start to plunder.

Rating: 7.3