Neva Game Review – A Beautiful Yet Brutal Adventure
Nomada Studio, the Spanish developer behind Gris, returns with a new title, Neva. Known for weaving tragic stories into stunning artistic landscapes, the studio has done it again. This time, Neva not only matches the emotional depth of Gris but also adds more intensity, thanks to a new combat system. It’s both beautiful and brutal.
A Unique Puzzle Platformer
Neva follows in Gris‘ footsteps as a puzzle-platformer with adventure elements. However, the puzzles are more light than challenging. At first glance, the main difference is that Alba, the protagonist, can fight back against her enemies. But don’t mistake Neva for just a “Gris with a sword.” It’s much more than that.
Art That Belongs in a Museum
The hand-painted visuals, crafted by Nomada Studio’s co-founder and creative director, Conrad Roset, elevate Neva beyond a typical video game. The studio’s aim has always been to merge art with gaming, and Neva delivers on that goal. Every scene is a visual masterpiece, inviting players to pause and soak in the stunning environments.
The game often provides moments where you simply walk or climb without immediate threats. These sections give you time to reflect and appreciate the world’s beauty. Even during platforming segments, if you miss a jump, you can admire the background while waiting for your next chance.
But the art isn’t just eye candy; it serves the narrative. Neva’s world starts colorful and vibrant, only to become consumed by dark, oozing creatures. As the story progresses, the game’s once bright colors fade into unsettling red tones, and some scenes even shift into black and white. The changing palette isn’t just decoration—it tells a story of loss, fear, and survival.
A Dark and Emotional Journey
Neva begins with Alba and a wolf pup, Neva, living peacefully in a beautiful meadow. However, this peaceful life is shattered when shadowy creatures invade, turning the vibrant landscape into a nightmare. Plants wilt, animals die or mutate into grotesque monsters. The battle for survival begins, but it’s not without sacrifice. Neva’s mother dies, leaving Alba to care for the young pup.
From there, Neva tells two intertwined stories. On one side, it follows the increasing threat of the shadow creatures, while on the other, it shows the bond between Alba and Neva as the wolf pup grows up.
Despite the game’s watercolor art style, the themes are not for the faint of heart. The opening sequence sets the tone, letting players know this is a story about loss, fear, and growing up in a hostile world.
Neva Gameplay Review: Simple Yet Engaging
The gameplay in Neva is straightforward. You jump, dodge, and attack. There’s also a unique button dedicated to interacting with Neva. Depending on the situation, you can pet the wolf, call her to you, or yell her name if she’s in danger.
Combat is minimal but effective. While the variety of enemies is limited, the game’s level design keeps things fresh. Battles take place in different settings, from open fields to tight tunnels, forcing players to adapt to each new scenario. Some fights even incorporate puzzle elements, blending combat with problem-solving.
Though the gameplay is simple, it never feels like an afterthought. Each battle feels purposeful and adds to the overall experience. For those seeking a challenge, boss fights will push your skills to the limit. But if combat gets overwhelming, you can switch to story mode and enjoy the narrative without the stress of dying.
Neva Game Review: A Playable Masterpiece
Neva is not just a game—it’s a work of art. The hand-painted visuals, emotional story, and solid gameplay create a unique experience. It’s not for everyone, though. If you’re looking for a fast-paced action game, Neva might not be your style. But if you’re open to an emotional journey that’s as much about the art as it is about gameplay, Neva is worth your time.
