Perhaps being 9 years previous when it was launched might have dulled my appreciation of the unique Ultima Underworld. Looking again, it’s a vitally necessary, genre-defining recreation, however I used to be simply too younger and inexperienced to understand it on the time. Decades of taking part in immersive sims later, and I’m virtually buzzing with anticipation for religious successor Underworld Ascendant. Today, OtherSide Entertainment (who’re additionally engaged on System Shock 3) launched a brand new gameplay trailer in addition to saying that the sport is due out this September.
Oddly, the impression I get from the trailer beneath is much less Ultima Underworld (regardless of invoking the title of the Stygian Abyss) and extra Thief by the use of Trine, each by way of mechanics and artwork path. Which is to say that is one thing that I’m extraordinarily on-board for; I can’t assist however grin on the potentialities inherent in mixing sneaky shadow-hugging, torch-extinguishing stealth with swashbuckling rope-swinging and breaking all of the puzzles with magically manipulated physics objects.
Several trailers in and I’m nicely on board with the dense swimming pools of colored lighting. Somewhat otherworldly and cartoonish, admittedly, however I can see it working. With only a few well-picked visible cues and color coded objects, you find yourself with a way more visually readable setting than within the likes of Thief’s grey-brown tunnels. Looking Glass’ sneakman sims are video games I like to items, however some particulars do get misplaced within the backdrops.
Two issues in regards to the trailer do elevate eyebrows, although – first one, then the opposite. Quite what OtherSide reckon they’ve achieved to want a (provisional) 18+ age ranking is past me, as nothing within the trailer seems to be something previous PG materials. Plus, I’m not solely positive the way you’re meant to swing dramatically from a dangling rope whereas taking pictures a bow with each fingers. Must be these +3 Pantaloons of Choking Grip, which can additionally clarify the age factor.
While the precise day has but to be labored out, Underworld Ascendant needs to be launching this September, and you may wishlist it on Steam here.
