Shinsekai: Into the Depths Review
Shinsekai: Into the Depths
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When I think of underwater games, I tend to think of Bioshock. That is the best example of a game that takes place underwater. Most of the time though, underwater experiences are only part of a game and not the whole concept. Shinseki: Into the Depths is a 2D Metroidvania that takes place completely underwater. Is it any good? Here is my review of Shinseki: Into the Depths for the Nintendo Switch!
Shinsekai: Into the Depths for the Nintendo Switch is one of the most unique games on the system right now. Thats saying a lot when you consider how many cool indies, third party, and first party games there are on the system. Shinsekai stands out because of its unique concept and compelling gameplay.
In Shinsekai: Into the Depths the player takes control of a deep sea diver. The story isn’t very clear, but honestly, you won’t care. The deep sea exploration in this game is gripping. As the diver, you will go deeper and deeper into the ocean floor. You do this by upgrading your character’s diving suit via collecting materials from defeating enemies and mining rocks. The player also finds new weapons and new ways to get around the deeper the diver goes into the depths.
It does take a moment to get use to the game’s controls. You use the right analog stick to aim your harpoon or other weapons at enemies and the ZR button to fire. The Y button is the close up attack. The L button lets you change between weapons. Perhaps the hardest thing to get use to is the B button, which isn’t just jumping. When you jump, you start floating around and can control your movement by pressing B again. This will use up your tank energy though, so be careful. Meanwhile crafting weapons, items, and upgrading your suit is all done by visiting the menu. Once you get the hang of it, crafting is pretty easy.
However, its really the game’s exploration of the ocean floor and what you find down there that will keep you playing Into the Depths. Its not always 100% clear how you get to the next area but you’ll want to keep playing and see what the game throws at you next.
Shinsekai is a 2D Metrodvania. The player will be able to go left, right, up, and down through the levels. The level design of Shinsekai is very impressive. All the water effects and the way enemies and your diver move are very well done. Some areas can be a bit too muddy though. The brighter colors from seaweed, some enemies, and objects help keep things interesting.
Shinsekai also has wonderful sound effects. It is suggested that you use headphones to enhance the sound. I wasn’t able to try that out but I imagine it would be pretty cool. Shinsekai does have excellent sound without the headphones.
Shinsekai: Into the Depths is a great game. The graphics, sound, and gameplay blend together to create a compelling experience.
There is so much to discover and do in this game. If you are looking for a unique Metroidvania for your Switch, then you should pick up this game right after you finish this review! Shinsekai: Into the Depths is a great addition to the Nintendo Switch library.
A digital code was provided for this review. Shinsekai: Into the Depths is now available on the Nintendo Switch eshop.
Article By Daniel Fugate
Daniel Fugate has wanted to be a writer since he was seven years old. He has a bachelor's degree in English and he's a huge Animal Crossing fan. The Wii U and 3DS are currently his favorite video game systems!
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