Barotrauma
" Immersive action-strategy submarine sim with deep co-op chaos but steep learning curve "
Barotrauma Review
Barotrauma is a highly immersive and chaotic cooperative submarine simulation game set in the alien ocean beneath Europa's icy surface. Players must work together to manage complex systems, pilot the submarine, and survive against hostile creatures and environmental hazards. The game shines brightest in multiplayer, where teamwork, sabotage, and unpredictable events create memorable experiences filled with laughter, panic, and drama. Its depth lies in detailed mechanics such as electrical wiring, medical treatment, submarine customization, and role-specific perks, offering a steep but rewarding learning curve.
While the single-player mode is enjoyable, it lacks the dynamic chaos and social interaction that make multiplayer so compelling. The game features extensive modding support and a built-in submarine editor, greatly expanding replayability. Despite some clunky controls, occasional bugs, and a challenging-to-learn interface, Barotrauma’s unique blend of strategy, horror, and humor has earned it a passionate community and consistent developer support. Overall, it’s a fantastic title best experienced with friends.
Highlights
Players praise Barotrauma’s deep gameplay mechanics, including detailed submarine management, role diversity, and complex electrical and medical systems.
The multiplayer experience is highly celebrated for its chaotic, unpredictable nature and strong emphasis on teamwork and social interaction.
The game’s art style and atmospheric soundtrack effectively complement the eerie underwater setting.
Extensive modding and a submarine editor add creative freedom and longevity.
The storyline and lore, set on Europa, provide an intriguing backdrop that enhances immersion.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include the steep learning curve and difficulty understanding complex systems without adequate tutorials.
Single-player mode is seen as less engaging due to limited AI sophistication and lack of multiplayer chaos.
Griefing and player sabotage in public multiplayer sessions can negatively impact enjoyment.
Some players note clunky movement controls and occasional bugs affecting performance.
The medical system is considered repetitive and in need of deeper mechanics.
Pros
- • Multiplayer chaos fosters hilarious and intense cooperative gameplay experiences.
- • Deep and intricate submarine systems provide rewarding strategic depth.
- • Strong role differentiation with unique perks enhances team dynamics.
- • Built-in submarine editor allows for extensive customization and creativity.
- • Atmospheric art style and soundtrack perfectly suit the alien underwater setting.
- • Engaging lore and storyline add immersive context to the gameplay.
- • Extensive modding support increases replayability and variety.
Cons
- • Steep learning curve with insufficient quality tutorials frustrates new players.
- • Single-player AI is limited, reducing solo gameplay enjoyment.
- • Griefing and toxic behavior in public multiplayer sessions can spoil fun.
- • Clunky movement and control issues detract from smooth gameplay.
- • Medical mechanics rely too heavily on repetitive morphine use.
- • Performance issues occasionally arise, especially with mods in multiplayer.
- • Some UI elements and systems are overly complex or unintuitive.
Rating Criteria
Barotrauma is a 2D co-op submarine simulator – in space, with survival horror and RPG elements. Steer your submarine, complete missions, fight monsters, fix leaks, operate machinery, man the guns and craft items, and stay alert: danger in Barotrauma doesn’t announce itself!
