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SOMA, developed by Frictional Games, the creators of Amnesia, has made a significant splash in the horror genre. This game surpasses its predecessor in many ways, offering a truly compelling and disturbing experience that sets it apart in the current gaming landscape. This review explores the strengths and weaknesses of SOMA, delving into its captivating narrative, impressive audio-visual presentation, and the aspects that could have been further refined.

SOMA

A Gripping Narrative

Imagine waking up in a strange, unfamiliar place with no memory of how you got there. This is the unsettling premise of SOMA. The story begins with Simon Jarret, who visits a doctor for treatment related to a previous brain injury. After undergoing a brain scan, Simon finds himself transported to a desolate, technologically advanced environment, a stark contrast to his bustling life in Toronto.

He soon discovers he’s not alone. Strange creatures called Proxies roam this unsettling location. Adding to the mystery, Simon encounters robots exhibiting human-like behavior, cryptic conversations, and unexplained abilities within himself. Questions mount: What are these Proxies? Where is he? And how did he get here?

SOMA – đánh giá game

SOMA excels in its storytelling, gradually revealing the narrative through exploration and discovery. The game doesn’t spoon-feed information; instead, it encourages players to piece together the fragmented narrative through environmental details like notes, audio logs, emails, and drawings. Each seemingly insignificant piece contributes to a larger, complex tapestry of interconnected events and character fates. The plot twists and turns, constantly surprising the player and demanding careful attention to detail.

SOMA’s approach to storytelling is a refreshing change of pace in the horror genre. The game respects the player’s intelligence, allowing them to actively participate in unraveling the mystery and creating a more engaging and immersive experience.

SOMA

Immersive Audio-Visual Design

SOMA delivers a powerful audio-visual experience that elevates its horror elements. The environments are meticulously crafted, from the cluttered interiors to the haunting underwater landscapes. The lighting design is particularly noteworthy, creating a sense of claustrophobia and dread through the interplay of light and shadow. Details like bloodstains on metallic surfaces add to the unsettling realism.

The sound design is equally effective. While the game uses minimal background music, it masterfully employs ambient sounds to build tension. Distant screams, echoing footsteps, and mechanical whirring combine to create an atmosphere of constant unease. The voice acting also deserves praise, conveying the characters’ emotions and internal struggles with remarkable authenticity.

SOMA – đánh giá game

Room for Improvement

While SOMA excels in many aspects, certain areas could have been improved. The enemies, the Proxies, lack the terrifying presence one might expect. Encounters often involve hiding, and while the suspense during these moments is palpable, the actual confrontations are less impactful. The death sequences, while disturbing, don’t leave a lasting impression. The horror stems more from the atmosphere and sound design than the enemies themselves.

SOMA

Another minor issue is the lack of in-game guidance. Players without strong English comprehension skills might struggle to follow the objectives, which are often conveyed only once through dialogue. This can lead to moments of confusion and frustration. Additionally, the extensive use of mouse-based interactions, particularly for opening doors, can be cumbersome during chase sequences.

SOMA

Conclusion

SOMA is a compelling psychological horror experience that excels in its narrative, atmosphere, and audio-visual presentation. While the enemy design and lack of guidance could be improved, the game’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses. SOMA is a must-play for fans of the genre looking for a thought-provoking and unsettling journey into the depths of the human psyche.