After the revolutionaryAmnesia: The Dark Descentin 2010, expectations were high for the next title from Frictional Games. Instead of developing a direct sequel toAmnesia, Frictional moved forward with an original IP calledSoma. WhileSomais not a direct sequel toAmnesia, it’s still something that will greatly appeal to fans of that game and Frictional Games' other work, as well as anyone that’s a fan of horror games in general.
WhereasAmnesia: The Dark Descenthas players exploring the creepy Brennenburg Castle,Somachanges the setting dramatically to an underwater research facility. Players have to explore the facility, coming into contact with bizarre machines and other kinds of horrors. Gameplay-wise,Somais very similar to Frictional’s previous work, with players having to do their best to avoid enemy confrontations while solving puzzles to advance the plot.
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Critics reacted positively toSomawhen it launched, with the game earning high marks from a variety of publications and finding itself nominated for a slew of awards. ManySomareviewspraised its gripping, haunting atmosphere, as well as its ability to genuinely scare the player.Soma’s narrative was also a source of praise for the game, withSomahaving one of the most well-received horror game narratives out of any game that released for PS4 or Xbox One.
But whileSomaearned strong marks from critics, it has somewhat struggled to become as much of a financial success as Frictional Games' previous titles. It took awhile forSomato sell enough copies to break even, which is unfortunate as it is definitely one of the best horror gaming experiences available on modern platforms.Somahas been criminally underplayed, but what this means, though, is that many PS4 and Xbox One gamers have a high-quality horror gaming experience just waiting for them.
If nothing else, fans of the horror genre can trySomawhile they wait forAmnesia: Rebirth, a direct sequel to the originalAmnesiathat’s set to launch on October 20.
Somais available now for PC, PS4, and Xbox One.
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