It's been a while since Quantic Dream fans have seen a new game coming from the studio. Detroit: Become Human, Quantic Dream's last release, launched back in 2018. Quantic Dream's Star Wars game has since been revealed, but it's still quite far off from its release, leaving fans hoping for more in the near future.
During Gamescom's Opening Night, Quantic Dream revealed a new game under its umbrella that will be launching surprisingly soon. Under the Waves is being published by Quantic Dream and is set to release next year.
Under the Waves' reveal trailer introduces Stan, an undersea explorer set in a "techno-futuristic" version of the 1970s, discovering wrecks deep underwater. Stan can be seen driving a submersible vehicle and scuba diving through submerged structures, at one point standing in the middle of what appears to be an abandoned street, long flooded. Though the game will feature exploration and crafting, its story has a big emphasis on the emotional struggles of grief and self-isolation as a coping method.
There's a strong sense of loneliness in the trailer, as is expressed by the protagonist in the voice over. The only other human-like figure seen looks similar to a hologram or ghost; otherwise, sea creatures look to be the only life around. It's not exactly clear why Stan is doing this, or what he hopes to find. What is known, however, is that the indie developer Parallel Studio is using Quantic Dream's suite of tools and technology to bring the game to life. While the game's protagonist doesn't have the photo-realistic look that Quantic Dream usually depicts, the capacity for realistic animation and emotion should be there.
Quantic Dream is also partnering with Surfrider Foundation Europe, which is dedicated to ocean preservation. Given the current risks facing the ocean with severe pollution from microplastics, acidification, and concerns regarding rising sea levels, it will be interesting to see how the game tackles a personal emotional struggle while also including an environmental message. However, it still leaves a lot of unanswered questions regarding Stan's cause and what's caused his grief.
Under the Waves doesn't yet have a solid release date, but it's set to launch sometime in 2023. PC players may be pleased to learn that the game will be available on both the Epic Games Store and Steam, and though the game's environment look quite impressive visually, the game will be available on both last-gen and current-gen consoles.
Under the Waves will release in 2023 for PC, PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S.
Source: QuanticDream
