While players have the freedom to explore the oxygenated living quarters, most of the game takes place in the ocean. They can dive with a limited oxygen supply, which can be replenished using oxygen sticks, or navigate a deep-sea vehicle to conserve oxygen and cover more ground.
Under the Waves also incorporates an element of environmental awareness. Spent oxygen sticks float in the water where they are left, and players can collect and convert them into plastic. Throughout the game, players will encounter machines and crafting blueprints that allow them to create items, such as additional oxygen sticks, using materials found in the ocean or on the seabed. Parallel Studio has partnered with Surfrider Foundation Europe to support ocean preservation initiatives, reflecting a commitment to raising awareness about the issue of ocean waste.
The game’s aesthetic combines the allure of the ocean floor with retro-futuristic design elements. Man-made structures and objects possess a distinct alternate-future appearance that evokes a sense of nostalgia, reminiscent of games like Prey or Deathloop. This anachronistic combination adds to the game’s unique charm.
