From the same studio that helped publish the BAFTA award-winning title Never Alone (Kisima Ingitchuna), a puzzle-platformer game inspired by the traditions and culture of the Alaskan Natives, comes a new simulation game that seeks to explore one of Earth’s greatest mysteries: the ocean depths. E-Line Media previewed their upcoming game, Beyond Blue, during this past E3 2019 event. Described by some as a “playable documentary”, the game is an underwater simulation adventure depicting the beauty of undersea life, its unique creatures, and the possible secrets hidden within its depths.
Beyond Blue takes place in the distant future and follows the adventures of Mirai, the leader of a newly formed team of researchers. With advanced technology, Mirai and her team are tasked with exploring and mapping the uncharted realms of the deep blue. Encounter various marine life including dolphins, whales, and a multitude of fish species. While journeying through the waves, players will encounter moments in which they will have to make high-stakes decisions regarding the team and their expedition.
Similarly to their work with Never Alone, in order to faithfully reflect the wonderous and mysterious nature of the dark depths, the team enlisted the help of renowned ocean expects. E-Line Media will be collaborating with the developers of the acclaimed Blue Planet II series, BBC Studios, to create an authentic deep sea diving experience. Beyond Blue will touch on the effects of pollution and environmental protection, however, the studio admits that they only hope that the game will inspire thoughts and conversation on the topics. In an article by the Los Angeles Times, E-Line Media executive Steve Zimmerman said, “We want people to start thinking about the world beyond what they see.” He goes on to say, “We know more about the surface of Mars then we do our oceans.”
For those who didn’t get the chance to see the game during E3 2019, feel free to visit the Easy Allies YouTube video where they talk about the Beyond Blue demo. You can also check out an interview with the development team hosted by Rock Paper Shotgun on their YouTube channel.
You can view the Beyond Blue trailer below.
Beyond Blue will be playable on Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and PC. The game is currently planned to launch sometime this year, however, no release date has been announced as of yet. Hopefully, further details will be shared in the coming months. For more information, visit the official Beyond Blue website or Steam Store page. And be on the lookout for updates posted on the studio’s social media such as Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.