Submerged: Hidden Depth is the sequel to the 2015 released game Submerged, developed and published by Uppercut Games, also known for their games Epoch and City of Brass.

It follows on from the first game, Submerged, and the journey of Miku and Taku, the brother and sister who fled from their father, trying to find a new home and reclaim the city from a mysterious black substance that engulfed the local vegetation. In this post-apocalyptic water world, it seems like global warming has submerged the world that was once a thriving civilisation.

As you traverse this beautiful world, you uncover the history and relics of the past, piecing together how the world has changed to this watery landscape and how these black roots have taken hold of its people and what remains of the dry land.

You play as Miku and Taku, alternating between the two at various locations around this water world of sorts, retaking the world by planting special giant seeds that repel a mysterious black substance that has taken hold of the local vegetation.

The game itself takes a non-combat approach to the gameplay, and rather stimulates your wits by traversing many obstacles to reclaim areas. Whether you jump, climb, or explore the world in your small boat, the game’s open-world shows its true beauty. From the changes in weather to the sparkling blue ocean on a sunny day, and how the environment lights up with flowers when you plant the special seeds to unlock an area.

I was fortunate to play the first hour of the game, exploring the first few locations along with a little exploring on the open sea. Finding a non-violent game brings a nice touch for those who seek more than your usual shooter or hack and slash titles that come along these days. Submerged: Hidden Depths brings a calming adventure game that I look forward to exploring more of in the future.

Written by: Simon Hayward