In December 1975, on an oil rig off the coast of Scotland, Caz McCleary, an electrical engineer, was about to be fired from his position on the vessel. However, before he can leave, his former company unwittingly unleashes a Lovecraftian horror, and you, the player as Caz, must battle to survive in Still Wakes the Deep.

Based here in England, award-winning developer The Chinese Room, who are known for their stellar narrative storytelling with games such as Dear Esther and Everybody’s Gone to the Rapture, has surpassed every expectation that fans of their work might have had.

The story follows a relatable everyman, Caz (impeccably brought to life by the vocal performance of Alec Newman), an electrician who is struggling to get by both financially and within his relationship back on shore. Just as his life is getting turned upside down in one way, the drill on board the rig awakens an indescribable terror that is so expertly crafted (in terms of how it’s presented and featured throughout the runtime) that this game will stay with you for a long, long time. Whilst traversing the sinking rig and having to avoid unspeakable horrors, including former crewmates who are no longer themselves, Caz must battle with his own demons in his mind.

The gameplay, even though it may be too linear for some players, is perfectly paced in relation to the events transpiring and is intuitive enough. It also features easily some of the greatest voice acting of all time, keeping audiences and players 100% immersed and feeling as if they are living the same experiences as Caz.

With gorgeous and frightening imagery, a spine-chilling score, and outstanding levels of detailing and worldbuilding capped off with real and visceral voice acting, Still Wakes the Deep is not only one of the best games of the year but one of the best horror games of this decade.

PLATFORM: PC, PS5 (REVIEWED), XBOX SERIES X | RELEASE DATE: OUT NOW