In Other Waters

Atmospheric game with a neat colour palette choice and display that builds on the premise that you are an AI system and don't see the world the way Ellery does. The UI took some getting used to but it fit well once I figured it out, though I was starting to get a bit weary of the movement system by the time the story finished. However that part didn't overstay it's welcome and I enjoyed the game as an interactive sci-fi story and for the detail that went into the xenobiology side :)

결국 나물로도 못 무쳐 먹는 식물도감 6시간 파헤쳤다는 결론이다. 필력은 괜찮지만, 결말도 조금 이상하고.

In Other Waters is a distinctive science fiction adventure developed by Jump Over The Age and published by Fellow Traveller. Instead of chasing blockbuster spectacle or fast-paced action, the game embraces a slower, more reflective style that revolves around exploration, scientific discovery, and storytelling. Players assume the role of an artificial intelligence connected to the diving suit of xenobiologist Ellery Vas, who has arrived on the distant ocean planet Gliese 677Cc in search of her missing colleague, Minae Nomura. This unusual perspective immediately sets the tone for an experience that values observation, problem-solving, and emotional connection over traditional action mechanics, making it one of the more original narrative adventures available on Steam. The game's premise unfolds through Ellery's investigation of an abandoned research station and the mysteries hidden beneath the alien sea. As her AI companion, players are responsible for monitoring her life support, navigating hazardous waters, scanning unknown environments, and interpreting scientific data that helps uncover the secrets of the planet. This indirect form of interaction creates an engaging relationship between player and protagonist, as every decision made through the interface directly influences Ellery's survival and success. Rather than feeling detached, the role of the AI fosters a genuine sense of partnership, gradually strengthening the emotional bond between the two characters as the story progresses. One of In Other Waters' greatest accomplishments is its world-building. Although it presents the environment through an intentionally minimalist interface instead of detailed 3D visuals, the game encourages players to construct vivid mental images through descriptive writing, environmental data, and atmospheric sound design. Every expedition introduces strange marine organisms, unfamiliar ecosystems, and geological formations that feel scientifically grounded while remaining wonderfully alien. Cataloging new species and learning how different forms of life interact with one another becomes just as rewarding as advancing the main story. The planet gradually transforms from an intimidating unknown into a living ecosystem whose biological relationships are both fascinating and believable. Exploration is designed around curiosity rather than constant danger. Players carefully plan routes, gather samples, unlock new equipment, and revisit previously inaccessible regions as Ellery's suit gains additional capabilities. The gradual expansion of exploration options gives the experience a satisfying sense of progression without relying on repetitive combat encounters. Every successful dive reveals additional lore, scientific discoveries, and narrative developments that encourage continued exploration. The gameplay consistently rewards patience and careful observation, making every breakthrough feel earned instead of simply handed to the player. The narrative excels because it intertwines personal drama with larger scientific and philosophical themes. Ellery's search for Minae serves as the emotional backbone of the story, while the mysteries surrounding the planet reveal deeper questions about evolution, adaptation, environmental balance, and humanity's responsibility toward unfamiliar ecosystems. The dialogue between Ellery and the AI evolves naturally over time, transforming what begins as a purely professional relationship into one built upon trust and mutual dependence. Rather than relying on dramatic plot twists, the game steadily builds emotional investment through thoughtful conversations and meaningful discoveries that resonate long after the journey ends. The audiovisual presentation demonstrates that restraint can be remarkably effective. The interface resembles advanced scientific equipment, displaying maps, sensor readings, biological information, and navigation systems instead of cinematic scenery. This minimalist approach allows players to actively imagine the alien landscapes while remaining immersed in the role of an analytical AI. The soundtrack complements this design perfectly with ambient compositions that create feelings of solitude, wonder, and quiet tension. Sound effects subtly reinforce the isolation of the underwater environment, making each dive feel both peaceful and unpredictable. Despite its many strengths, In Other Waters may not appeal to everyone. Players expecting frequent action sequences, direct character control, or visually spectacular set pieces may find its deliberate pacing too slow. Much of the gameplay revolves around reading, interpreting information, and making thoughtful decisions through menus and interfaces. Occasional backtracking between explored locations can also reduce momentum. However, these elements are intentional components of the overall design philosophy, emphasizing scientific exploration and careful observation over conventional excitement. Ultimately, In Other Waters succeeds because it confidently commits to its unique vision. Its innovative perspective, emotionally engaging narrative, intelligent environmental storytelling, and richly imagined alien ecosystem combine to create an experience unlike most modern science fiction games. It proves that compelling storytelling does not require explosive action or photorealistic graphics, instead relying on imagination, atmosphere, and meaningful player involvement to leave a lasting impression. For players who appreciate thoughtful exploration, narrative depth, and science fiction grounded in curiosity rather than conflict, this is an exceptional adventure that stands out as one of the genre's most memorable indie experiences. Rating: 8/10

This is competently written, scored, and designed experience, with a great atmosphere. There is no game to be found. If you want an atmosphere, or have a weakness for reading data logs, it may be your thing. It is my thing, but it just barely satisfied me if I'm being honest, the little interactivity it had was just barely enough to cover the gap the, not lackluster, not quite interesting enough experience left me with. This being said I now really want to try Citizen sleeper, to see what else the dev can do, since this game is just screaming "potential".

no he podido jugarlo mucho por ahora pero lo que veo promete, aunque al principio me está pareciendo soporifero, no por el tipo de juego si no porque no me gusta jugar en inglés, a todo esto un juego que trata de ser una ia y que es solo texto , sin voces, que no esté traducido aunque sea por una ia en pleno año 2026 del señor me parece un horror. Ojalá los devs le dediquen 10 minutos, cojan una traducción hecha por fans aunque sea regulera y pueda disfrutar de este mundo que ofrece mientras tanto voto en negativo

Ce jeu est beau. C'est la dernière chose que je me suis dis en le finissant. Ce jeu est un petit bijou assez niche et méconnu pour autant ultra complet. Son concept est génial est si simple que s'en est a se demander si on ne va pas s'ennuyer un peu pour autant ce n'est pas le cas. J'ai adoré analyser, scanner et classifié les espèces de Gliese 667Cc et j'ai hâte de lire toutes les recherches du scientifique de ce jeu. L'histoire est prenante et incroyablement bien écrit. Le jeu nous offre des claques philosophique rien que dans son pitch de base en insinuant qu'une IA puisse être vivante de part le fait que c'est le joueur qui l'incarne. Pour donner mon avis de manière un peu plus "objective" quoi que ça veuille dire, La musique est une pépite et son minimalisme permet de nous immerger a 100% dans le jeu c'est un 10/10 Le Game design simple mais archi efficace rends la boucle de gameplay super intéressante et fait que c'est un jeu tranquille et pas ennuyant malgré son manque de rejouabilité. Le level design aussi est une masterclass et permet de guider le joueur ultra facilement a travers la planète, De plus il augmente le sentiment de cohérence et d'immersion. Malgré sa DA graphique simpliste le jeu reste beau, et son aspect textuel permet au joueur de s'imaginer le monde qui l'entoure tel un véritable roman intéractif. Le seul bémol serait sa durée de vie car j'aurais voulu en voir plus mais peu importe. Ce jeu a réussi a repousser ce que je pensais possible dans une expérince vidéoludique pour moi et je dois dire que je suis impressioné par la performance de ce petit studio de - de 10 personnes il me semble. Un de mes nouveaux jeu favoris c'est un 10/10 total et unanime pour moi.

Great narrative based game-play. Stripped back of shiny shiny light and sound. I loved it.

Absolutely wonderful little game, very simplistic in a good way. I managed to complete it in around 6 hours. So much of the beauty of this game is in its absolutely phenomenal soundtrack and how it gels with the story and atmosphere. The well-designed minimalist computer UI also really lets you fill in the blanks. Short but sweet, kind of gives me nostalgia for Endless Ocean.

I'm having sm fun <3 You can tell the writers really care about the science that inspires this story, and I appreciate that I'm actually learning something while I play. Very chill vibes so far and it's well tailored to my recent gaming tastes (sci-fi, mystery, and underwater games have held my attention lately)

water game fun