Darkwater
" Immersive cooperative underwater horror with unique submarine combat but frequent bugs "
Darkwater Review
Darkwater is an atmospheric cooperative survival game set in a unique underwater environment where players pilot a submarine and explore abandoned outposts. The game combines elements of exploration, resource management, and combat against both human and monstrous threats. Players appreciate the tense and immersive atmosphere, especially the submarine setting and the co-op gameplay that demands teamwork and communication. The gameplay loop involves navigating between outposts, scavenging for resources, upgrading the submarine, and fighting off enemies, which provides an engaging experience for groups of two to three players.
However, Darkwater remains in Early Access and shows its developmental state through technical issues such as crashes, bugs, and connection problems. Many players find the content limited and repetitive after several hours, with a need for more enemy variety, mission types, and quality-of-life improvements. Despite these shortcomings, the game demonstrates strong potential and is recommended for players who enjoy cooperative extraction games and deep-sea horror, especially if played with friends.
Highlights
The game's atmospheric underwater setting and submarine mechanics stand out as unique and well-executed features. Players praise the cooperative gameplay requiring communication and teamwork, which creates intense and memorable moments. The storyline and exploration of flooded outposts add to the immersive experience. The blend of exploration, resource management, and combat offers a compelling gameplay loop. Additionally, the game’s concept and potential for future content expansions excite the community, with many enjoying the current state despite its Early Access status.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include technical issues such as frequent crashes, bugs, and connection problems that disrupt gameplay. Many players feel the game is underdeveloped with limited content and repetitive mission design, leading to boredom after a few hours. The submarine piloting is considered unintuitive by some, and the combat mechanics, particularly melee, need refinement. The lack of manual saving during missions and unclear tutorials contribute to frustration. Additionally, the game’s difficulty balance favors three-player teams, making solo or duo play challenging. Some also note the game’s visuals and enemy variety could be improved.
Pros
- • Immersive underwater atmosphere with strong horror elements and tension.
- • Engaging cooperative gameplay that emphasizes teamwork and communication.
- • Unique submarine navigation and combat mechanics enrich the experience.
- • Exploration of flooded outposts adds depth and mystery to gameplay.
- • Resource management and upgrades provide meaningful progression.
- • Challenging encounters with human and monstrous enemies keep players alert.
- • Potential for future content expansions and improvements is promising.
Cons
- • Frequent crashes, bugs, and connection issues disrupt gameplay flow.
- • Limited content and repetitive mission design reduce long-term appeal.
- • Submarine piloting lacks manual control, feels unintuitive for some.
- • Combat mechanics, especially melee, require balancing and refinement.
- • Lack of manual saving during missions causes frustration upon failure.
- • Early Access state shows through technical problems and missing polish.
- • Difficulty balance favors three-player teams, making solo play hard.
Rating Criteria
Darkwater is a cooperative extraction horror game for 1-4 players. Command a submarine trapped under the ice of an alien planet. Battle enemy vessels and deep sea abominations as you hunt for resources. Do what it takes to survive.