Topic: Push Square Community Game Club | Now Playing: Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown

@CaptD I'm similar, l like Metroidvanias but struggle when platforming gets tricky. So prefer ones when combat takes centre stage.

@CaptD If it any consolation, it was less the platforming I struggled with in F.I.S.T and more the combat. There are some no-nonsense difficulty spikes with some of the bosses. Maybe combat is more your thing and this one works out?

Bit late to the party, but I here are my impressions of Under the Waves. I finished it in about 6 hours and I must say it was a pleasant surprise. I have to give extra points to a game that starts every in game day with making and drinking a cup of coffee, looking out the window of your life module and taking in the environment. Underwater exploration is not something you see a lot as a main mechanic in games (apart from Subnautica of course).

I liked the retro '70's futurist style. It is used often in an outer space setting, but it works really well under water. The diving and exploration was both relaxing and interesting tot the point that even the ever present busy work of open world games was worthwhile and meaningful, like spotting and interacting with marine wildlife, cleaning up plastic waste, even to the point of collecting the packages of your own consumables. The music really contributed to the atmosphere: nice and relaxing whilst exploring with the occasional crescendo when you discover something or during major plot points.

The overal setting and side missions were the most interesting part of the game. In contrast to some Game Club members here, I didn't like the storyline of the main character. The heavy themes of loss and grief conflicted with the relaxed atmosphere of the game in general to the point that the motivations of the main character did not feel believable. There are themes of environmental activism and corporate sell out that are interesting and provide enough justification for the overall setting. The emotional story arc of the main character felt unnecessary and heavy handed tot the point that the dilemma you are confronted with near the end didn't feel like a dilemma at all. The crafting is also a little bit of a weak point. There are not that many ingredients and recipes. And near the end you will find more than enough items, so crafting almost becomes redundant.

Overall, I liked this game. The interesting setting, relaxed atmosphere and the underwater exploring are its biggest selling points. I doubt I would have picked this game up if it wasn't nominated here. So a pleasant surprise and another win for Game Club.

@Mr_B021 An excellent write up mate, I'm glad it resonated so well with you and yes any game where your first task is making coffee is a win. I haven't had the pleasure of playing through it yet but your review has definitely made me anxious to. Thanks for the fantastic contribution 👍