Backlog Review: Abzu (PS4)

It's time for backlog game review. In this backlog review we'll be taking a look at the underwater adventure Abzu on the PlayStation 4. Abzu was developed by Giant Squid who are the developers that brought us the visually beautiful and critically acclaimed game Journey on the PlayStation 3.

Abzu's story is somewhat of a mystery and I believe can be open to the player's interpretation. The game puts you into the role of an unnamed diver. The game starts immediately with the main character waking up in the middle of the ocean. You're then immediately introduced to the game controls and sent off to explore the wonders, and even dangers, that the ocean has in store for you. There are also some interesting turns as the story progresses. 

The game is certainly about the mystery of the ocean and exploring it. Thankfully it's a beautiful looking ocean to explore. Abzu is absolutely gorgeous! The light rays that stream from the ocean's surface, plant life swaying in the currents, ancient temple ruins, and hundreds of sea creatures swimming by are all fantastic looking. One of the most striking displays in the game is when you encounter and swim through a swirling school of fish. It's simply stunning. There were so many moment that left me in awe and with a smile on my face while playing this game. It's easy to feel an overwhelming since of calmness while playing Abzu which is something I feel is a welcome change of pace in gaming.

The music fits perfectly into the setting as well. Soothing scores seem to sweep along with the underwater motions and environments, while more suspenseful tones drop in to add to the ominous feeling when danger is lurking nearby. The controls consist mainly of moving around with the thumbs ticks, swimming faster by pressing the X button, and interacting with objects and creatures by pressing the square button. I find it refreshing and perfect that games such as these keep controls to a minimum. 

I finished my first play through in about three hours, but only managed to unlocked 40% of the game's trophies. This game absolutely warrants multiple play throughs, not just to find all the hidden items and unlock trophies, but just to experience the game itself. 

While this review was based on the PlayStation 4 version of Abzu, the game is also available on Xbox One and PC. Abzu is a fantastic, beautiful, calming, and surreal game and one that everyone should experience. Thanks for reading this review and I hope you enjoyed it. 

Final Verdict: 10/10