Review: Deep Beyond

Initial release date: May 15, 2024

Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X and Series S

Genres: Adventure game, Indie game, Puzzle, Adventure

Developer: AVIX

Publishers: AVIX, Purple PLay LLC.

Engine: Unity

Deep sea diving has an overall mystique to it, something mystical about going about an ocean bed and soaking in sights that few people have ever seen before. However, exploring an alien world means that danger lurks around every corner, and you’ll always be aware that the life support you’re relying on is vulnerable.

However, the benefits are enormous: dig deep enough and you’ll find wrecks, mysteries, and wealth. Deep Beyond is a story adventure about discovering wealth during a dive and the lengths individuals will go to keep it. Let’s dive in.

You should join Lily and her dog!

The story on offer here combines mystery, adventure, and a charming dog named Chester. You play Lily, a young woman with her own boat who lives somewhere along the coast of North America, possibly in Alaska. She has her dog, Chester, and we learn that her father was lost at sea, leaving her to be raised by his best friend, Howard.

They’ve both been seeking for the last disc, which contains the location of a pirate ship and a large amount of treasure. Lily first goes in search of this, but when she returns, she discovers her boat has been ruined and is knocked out by a gang of thugs. What is happening? Is Howard in danger?

The tale of Deep Beyond is relatively bite-sized, so this adventure can be completed in a couple of hours. The developers squeeze a lot into this time frame, and it can feel rushed at times, but there is also a lot to like. On a personal level, I identified with Lily’s character, her dog, and the trip she is embarking on. There is a heart here, as well as indications of a broader plot, which unfolds through many choices and possible endings. Again, it comes across as rushed, but everything works, and I was pleased with the end of this short story.

Probably treasure.

The gameplay is simple, requiring only one button and some movement skills. You will spend a significant amount of time following a straight course through the ship’s various locations, including undersea, Howard’s Lighthouse, and a large tanker.

It is here that you can only wander around, which might be frustrating at times. When you come across particular elements that are highlighted, simply hit A to use them. This could include a lever, a door, a crane, or ventilation. It’s a simple system, yet it works effectively, making Deep Beyond easy to play.

Of course, there are riddles, which are intriguing and always enjoyable to solve as you strive to progress.

There are some magnificent graphics that tie Deep Beyond together. It has a hand-drawn dynamism, with only a few hues of low poly brilliance used throughout the plot. The characters look fantastic, and the whole visual mood that Deep Beyond exudes is amazing. The audio is also good, not only from the soundtrack but also from the fully voiced cast, which excels, including Chester’s barking.

A brief yet pleasant experience.

Deep Beyond is an excellent little game experience. It may only last a few hours and provide a pretty linear, directed experience, but it appears to be an excellent value for the money. That plot is also good, but it feels rushed at points, and things end before they can have a meaningful impact. The riddles and visuals are superb, though, and the characters are interesting. Given the price, Deep Beyond is a worthwhile investment.

Review Overview

Gameplay: 80%

Controls: 82%

Aesthetics: 87%

Content: 76%

Accessibility: 78%

Value: 79%

Overall: 80%

GOOD

Summary: “Deep Beyond” transports players on a thrilling trip through a stunningly portrayed underwater world full of intrigue and adventure. The game effectively combines strategic gameplay with an intriguing narrative, engrossing players in its captivating plot. While the controls are fluid and responsive, allowing for easy exploration, some of the information might be enhanced to increase player involvement. Despite this, the amazing sights and realistic environments provide an unforgettable experience. With its great gameplay and stunning graphics, “Deep Beyond” is a worthwhile experience for anyone looking for an exciting sci-fi expedition.