Neva Review – A Symphony of Pain

Neva review

The notion of games as an art form has been a topic of discussion for years. While some argue that it is simply entertainment, others focus on how the combination of interactivity and visual storytelling communicates messages like no other. With the ability to provoke raw emotions and delve into complex themes, the medium offers a rich canvas for narrative exploration. Nomada Studio's previous release, Gris, exemplifies this argument and Neva reinforces it, solidifying that video games can transcend entertainment.

Fallen into darkness, the world has been transformed due to a black entity that infects those who reside. After a horrible event left the young wolf, Neva, alone, you become a guardian, guiding and protecting her against dark forces. As the world declines, you must do everything in your power to survive. What follows is a powerful story that captures the fragility of life and successfully communicates the difficulties of grief.

mother and son

As the wolf's protector, a bond instantly blossoms. You start by caring for her, helping her through, and defending her against the wild creatures that dwell in the shadows. The seasonal structure of the narrative leads to jumps in time. Because of this, Neva ages and you feel that she becomes more confident and becomes a couple. This paternal aspect of the story resonates making each moment deeper as you fight through dangerous situations.

In the absence of dialogue, Nomada Studio tactfully explores the narrative, elevating the impact of each segment. The environments symbolize the protagonist's emotions and help advance the story without explicit sequences. There is a maturity that permeates the experience, respecting the player's intellect and allowing them to discover and learn as they go. This permeates their journey as remnants before the cataclysmic event remains, leading them to solitude and reflection. The somber and melancholic atmosphere stirs emotions to deliver heartbreaking moments that leave a lasting impression.

Alba is capable of double jumping, climbing and running towards platforms. You must observe your surroundings, look for paths to progress, and use your skills to formulate a route. As the world dies, areas fall apart and you will have to jump through the rubble to reach your destination. Nomada Studio constantly pushes creative boundaries, introducing new ideas that challenge expectations and create unforgettable moments. While the game retains its relaxing atmosphere, it seamlessly integrates unexpected elements that encourage you to carefully consider every move.

An inner darkness

The enemy design is impeccable. Inspired by Studio Ghibli, ethereal elements contrast with haunting features that evoke both awe and awe. Each creature has an attack pattern that requires you to learn and respond. Although its aggressive production is limited at first, it soon develops as Neva grows. As it matures, you can command it to fly across the screen and brutally attack enemies. This further strengthens the bond between the two, as you trust the wolf to help you in times of need.

The bosses are intimidating and require quick evasion to avoid damage. If you lose health, you can regain it at any time with multiple successive attacks. Attack patterns vary to offer a rewarding battle that captures the notion of slaying a gigantic monstrosity. Since the developer's previous version was missing combat, it's great to see the solid implementation of this aspect in the adventure. However, fans of a low-stakes experience can opt for an easier difficulty that reduces reliance on combat.

Beautifully haunting

Every aspect of the game's presentation is masterfully executed; from the art direction, which perfectly captures the premise, to the impressive soundtrack, which enhances the emotion of each sequence. The cinematography is a highlight with beautifully haunting views marking your journey. Sometimes the camera pulls back, amplifying the isolation that follows each step toward your goal. Although only at key points, there are also well-animated cutscenes that add to the impact of the story beats. The combination of a multitude of design features helps the game stand out in a crowded genre.

Neva offers a unique spiritual journey through the complexities of life. While the narrative leaves some elements open to interpretation, its grounded aspects make the characters identifiable. Although brief, the adventure is full of memorable moments that will captivate you with each step towards its wonderful conclusion. The emotional and thought-provoking journey combines captivating storytelling with immersive gameplay to deliver a truly special experience.

***A Steam code was provided for this review***