Deep in the ocean, magical water sprites fight against the turning tide as pollution spreads and the reef dwindles. It is up to Thalassa, a newly promoted sprite, to serve as Guardian and return the ocean to what it once was. It’s a great setup for a city-builder and management sim, but what does the Life Below demo deliver?
Beloved Banter
Life Below features a light story that weaves tutorial and exposition together to immerse you within the world you are nurturing. The demo introduces you to Thalassa and a few of those helping her with cute speech bubble pop-ups at the bottom of the screen.
Written by Rhianna Pratchett, the narrative is charming, witty, and an absolute delight. I would like to see voices added in the future, just to further bring them to life, but I realise that’s not always within a creative budget. Still, there are plenty of examples of effortless character development and world-building within this short demo.
They Grow Up So Fast
Although the demo only covers part of one level, there was a lot to sink my teeth into. Everything fits within a grid, so you can plot your expansion relatively easily. Each resource requires resources to build and energy to maintain, then it’s just a matter of managing the number of plants and creatures you need to keep everybody happy.
You can research to unlock new corals, including a crafting bench and plants that control the temperature and pH levels of an area. Collect materials, craft, research, unlock, repeat. It’s an engaging gameplay loop that I would have happily continued with had I not been hit with the demo’s end.
Looking Good
The general aesthetic found in Life Below is blue and mystical, while still being rooted within reality. Each plant and creature is designed to become a part of the greater whole as you grow your ecosystem to perfection. Everything is wrapped in a sort of anime realism, which lends itself well to the sprites and utility items, so nothing seems out of place.
Megapop worked alongside actual marine biologists to bring the level to life by introducing authentic designs and sounds. This is backed up by a relaxing soundtrack that encourages dissociation and extended game sessions.
Ultimate Control
Life Below used a keyboard and mouse for controls. I found it responsive and intuitive, and had no problems when running. Most things worked with simple button clicks, and I could get out of menus with right-click and Esc.
Although the demo didn’t give much information about them, there were a few bonus controls and screens in-game. You can control when your sprites are working and have some zoning options, which will be interesting to see in action.
So Far, So Good
I was a bit gutted when the Life Below demo ended, as there was an “overworld” type button which promised extra levels on perhaps a more global scale. The demo also has different biomes and events which you have to deal with on the fly. It’s certainly got some legs to it, and I like that we’re growing something organic as opposed to plonking down buildings on a flat plane. Two Point and Tycoon game lovers will enjoy this one for sure.
Played On: Steam
Platforms: PC
Release Date: To be announced
Developer: Megapop
Publisher: Kasedo Games
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