Submerged: Hidden Depths is a non-combat third-person “relaxploration” adventure set in sunken ruins surrounded by the ocean. The players take on the role of the brother and sister pair, Miku and Taku – one cursed with a mysterious power that she wants to use for good, the other determined not to let it tear them apart.
I didn’t know what to find when I started up Submerged: Hidden Depths, but what I found is a beautiful, captivating world begging for exploration. Wow, do I adore this game.
A World To Uncover
The lack of combat and the safety of knowing you can safely explore a world is comforting. Sometimes I just find myself driving my boat to see what is around the backside of some ruins or off in the horizon. Submerged: Hidden Depths is a pleasant change from my time with Elden Ring recently and reminds me of my time exploring the waters in Wind Waker.
There are many items to collect to help unravel the story of the world. Journals about the world are found throughout the ruins. The animals you see need to be documented. The powers you control give you ample reason to go out of your way and go where your heart desires.
The puzzles and ruin designs are not there to punish you but help you unravel the story. It is a compelling story that draws you in further with every ruin you explore.
With my limited game time as a stay-at-Home Dad, I love a game where I can progress every time I play – even if it is only for 15-minutes. Submerged: Hidden Depths does this flawlessly. It is a perfect palate cleanser after heavy, combat-focused games like Horizon: Forbidden West and Elden Ring.
Submerged: Hidden Depths waters deserve exploration.
Broximar Gamer Dad Rating: HIGHLY RECOMMEND
I was provided a Steam key by the developer for this review. The game releases on March 10, 2022, on Epic Game Store, Steam, PS4, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and Stadia.