Still Wakes the Deep is a Lovecraftian horror walking simulator developed by The Chinese Room and published in June 2024 by Secret Mode. The game has received praise from the gaming community, but in my opinion, still hasn’t received the recognition it deserves. If you enjoy the survival horror genre and loved games like Alien: Isolation, this is a must-try indie game.

The story takes place on the Beira D oil rig in the year 1975; Cameron “Caz” McLeary has left his family behind to work on the rig while his legal trouble resolves back in Scotland. But the drill hits something on the ocean floor and wakes a creature from the deep. Players must use every survival skill at their disposal to escape the doomed rig and try to get back to Caz’s family.

Simply put, this game is phenomenal–as beautiful as it is moving. Visually, the game leverages many of the disturbing horror elements that games like Alien: Isolation mastered: mixed pattern visuals that overstimulate the eyes and cause distress, along with restricted visibility that feels incapacitating at times, and sound design that builds the tension to a fever pitch. There’s even a few nods like hiding in lockers that pay homage to Alien: Isolation‘s impact on Still Wakes the Deep.

But what I loved most about this game was its deep story and powerful themes of loss, sacrifice, and the value of family in the fight for survival. Whether it was the bond between the working-class crew on the Beira D or the flashbacks to Caz’s family, the game reminds us of the value of someone having your back, the importance of loyalty in a universe hostile to human life.

If you’re looking for a good indie game to sink a few hours into, one that has a story that will captivate you through the end, I highly recommend giving Still Wakes the Deep a try. Currently it’s available for free on Xbox GamePass.

Tell us what you think! Have you played Still Wakes the Deep? Are you a fan of walking simulators? Share your reactions in the comments below or join the conversation on Boss Rush Network’s Discord, Facebook, or Twitter.

Featured Image: Secret Mode