PS Plus Has the Best Dog Game You’ve Probably Never Played

In 2018, Nomada Studio delivered an emotional masterstroke with Gris. Defined by a breathtaking, watercolor-inspired aesthetic and an exquisitely stirring soundtrack, the dialogue-free platformer offered a universally resonant meditation on sorrow and psychological healing. For anyone seeking a deeply moving narrative intertwined with refined traversal puzzles, it remains an unforgettable milestone.

Six years later, the studio unveiled Neva—a project that matches the artistic splendor of its predecessor while introducing dynamic combat and richer narrative depth. Transcending typical indie boundaries, Neva stands out as one of the most compelling artistic achievements of the 2020s, readily accessible via PlayStation Plus Extra and Premium tiers.

The adventure centers on Alba, a resilient protagonist navigating an ethereal woodland painted in striking emerald and pastel hues. As a malignant corruption steadily consumes her homeland, Alba fights for survival alongside a devoted companion. While Gris was entirely silent, Neva embraces a single spoken word: the companion’s name, “Neva.” Uttered as an affectionate whisper during peaceful interludes or cried out in terror amidst peril, the voice acting captures a protective instinct that will instantly resonate with any pet owner.

An early, shared tragedy permanently binds Alba and her canine ally. As they traverse a fractured world, their largely unspoken kinship deepens, mirroring the profound, unconditional devotion found between humans and their real-life animal companions.

Neva begins the journey as an endearing, vulnerable pup, gradually maturing into a majestic beast reminiscent of the towering wolf gods in Princess Mononoke. This physical evolution is intricately tied to gameplay. Unlike Gris, Neva incorporates fluid combat mechanics and genuine stakes. While the young pup initially requires constant shielding during skirmishes, it gradually evolves into an indispensable partner capable of turning the tide in battle.

The duo regularly encounters sinister adversaries—grotesque, ink-black silhouettes crowned with porcelain masks reminiscent of No-Face from Spirited Away. Alba’s combat repertoire remains deliberate and minimalist, emphasizing emotional weight and protective urgency over complex combos. Every strike feels vital, fueled by the desperate urge to protect her companion.

Beyond swordplay, platforming remains the beating heart of the experience. Alba moves with exceptional grace, leaping across canopy tops, navigating crumbling ancient architecture, and dashing beneath ominous, crimson skies. Every frame serves as a painterly tableau, showcasing Nomada Studio’s peerless environmental design.

Clocking in at a concise four-hour runtime, Neva is an ideal, self-contained journey for a weekend playthrough. It marries the poetic intimacy of Gris with engaging action and refined traversal. For players yearning to explore their origins further, the Neva: Prologue expansion offers an equally poignant glimpse into how this unbreakable bond first formed.

Source: Polygon