Beyond Blue

Beyond Blue is a short yet delightful game set in the near future, focused on exploring the ocean and undertaking various missions to learn about different species and their unique aspects, such as habitat, behaviour, mating, hunting, and more. Each mission follows Mirai and her colleagues as they embark on their quest, with a primary focus on studying whales and their distinct songs. The game offers enjoyable, albeit repetitive, gameplay, showcasing unique animations and characteristics for each aquatic animal. While Beyond Blue may have some rough edges and a short duration, it provides a calming experience centred around the wonders of the ocean.

Gameplay and Mechanics: Beyond Blue is divided between two worlds. The main one involves traversing the ocean in search of specific species to aid the research conducted by various scientists, with the hope of developing future medical advancements for humankind. This includes exploring underwater caves, salt-covered floors teeming with life, and dark ocean depths, where you can encounter even more unique forms of marine life. In each mission, you set up GPS sensors to track the routes and behaviours of the animals or locate sensors that have gone astray due to unusual movement or detachment.

The other world exists within the underwater base, serving as a hub between missions. Here, you can read sticky notes that provide insights into Mirai's thoughts, research progress, and important information. The base also features a 3D hologram machine that displays scanned creatures, a music player allowing you to switch between original and existing songs, and a chair with a massive window into the ocean, allowing you to observe its inhabitants. This aspect of the game adds a slice-of-life element, providing opportunities to engage in conversations with colleagues about their research.

Beyond Blue's presentation bears resemblance to Subnautica, although it takes a more scientific approach to wildlife. For those familiar with Subnautica, it is known to evoke moments of terror. In contrast, Beyond Blue allows players to scan each creature, gaining knowledge about their species and unique characteristics. After scanning, holograms of the creatures can be viewed, showcasing different animations based on their resting, moving, and hunting states. Beyond Blue offers a wealth of information for those who seek it, particularly appealing to detail-oriented players. Additionally, the game features documentaries covering a wide range of topics related to aquatic life, ocean conservation, and more.

Graphics and Visuals: Beyond Blue exhibits rough edges in its graphics, but shines in its underwater segments, where creatures and surfaces possess a subtle blue hue. The game showcases coral reefs, sandy floors, various species of aquatic inhabitants, and drones illuminating dark depths that have not seen light for millions of years.

Sound Design and Music: Playing Beyond Blue with headphones or in a quiet environment is advisable, as the majority of the game takes place underwater, resulting in quiet yet detailed sound effects. Between missions, music plays constantly in the base, featuring Mirai's personal playlist with selected songs to pass the time. Notably, an original song is introduced as a demo variant during the missions, and the finalized version is presented during the end credits. The diegetic nature of the songs adds to the game's atmospheric charm, particularly during missions set in the pitch-black depths of the ocean.

Voice acting in the game is well executed by all actors, with a good balance in sound mixing that doesn't overshadow other sound design elements. However, there may be a bug as some spoken lines sound distant, as if they were spoken away from the microphone. More attention could have been given to addressing such bugs, as this issue is present in gameplay and cutscenes. Nonetheless, overall voice acting is exceptional, with only minor hiccups.

Overall Story, Side Quests, and More: In Beyond Blue, players assume the role of Mirai, a deep-sea explorer and scientist, who, along with her trusted colleagues, embarks on a mission to learn as much as possible about the sea and the secrets its inhabitants may hold. Each scientist supports one another in times of difficulty, offering emotional assistance, advice, and help in both personal and mission-related matters. Mirai's personal quest revolves around understanding the fascinating world of whales and deciphering the meaning behind their songs. However, unforeseen troubles arise, jeopardizing their plans and forcing them to uncover the cause. Throughout the journey, maintaining relationships with colleagues and Mirai's sister becomes paramount.

Visual and Gameplay Bugs, Crashes, and such: I am pleased to report that I encountered no bugs, whether in gameplay, visuals, or audio, and the game remained stable from start to finish.

Replayability: Beyond Blue does not offer additional content after the credits roll. However, players can revisit previously completed levels to fill their log, attempting to document every flora and fauna encountered. It's important to note that gathering complete information about a specific species requires multiple scans.

While Beyond Blue is a short game, it compensates for its brevity with knowledge and exploration for those seeking a relaxed experience. It doesn't feature high-octane action, scares, or puzzles, but provides a tranquil game that respects the player's time.