SOMA similar games & best alternatives
SOMA
2015
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Quick resume
From the creators of Amnesia: The Dark Descent comes SOMA, a sci-fi horror game set below the waves of the Atlantic ocean. Struggle to survive a hostile world that will make you question your very existence.
Global score
96/100
Genres
Action, Adventure, Indie, Puzzle
Pros
- Deep philosophical story
- Immersive atmosphere and sound design
- Thought-provoking moral choices
- Strong emotional impact
- Well-crafted sci-fi setting
Cons
- Simple and limited gameplay mechanics
- Linear progression
- Some pacing issues with slow sections
- Lack of replayability beyond story
- Minor technical issues reported
Motivations
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Autonomy3
"Players explore and interact with environment objects freely, making moral choices that affect their experience, though the game is mostly linear."
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Competence1
"Gameplay involves exploration, puzzle solving, and stealth with some challenge, but puzzles are generally simple and combat is absent."
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Competition-5
"Single-player experience focused on personal story and exploration without any competitive elements."
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Continuation2
"Players report immersive experience and emotional attachment leading to replay and reflection, though gameplay is not highly addictive."
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Cooperation-5
"Entirely single-player with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."
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Creativity2
"Players interact with many objects and solve puzzles creatively, but within a fixed narrative and environment."
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Domination-5
"No social or multiplayer elements involving dominance or power over others."
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Escapism4
"Strong immersion in a deep sci-fi horror world provides escape from reality and existential reflection."
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Expectation-4
"Players engage voluntarily driven by interest in story, atmosphere, and philosophical themes."
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Experimenting1
"Some exploration and puzzle solving encourages experimentation, but mostly within established gameplay loops."
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Exploration3
"Exploration of underwater stations and environments is a key part of gameplay and story discovery."
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Expression-3
"Limited character customization or self-expression; focus is on narrative and atmosphere."
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Fantasy3
"Fictional sci-fi setting with philosophical and existential themes, blending horror and speculative fiction."
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Fellowship-5
"Solo experience with minimal social interaction or community involvement."
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Growth3
"Players develop understanding of story, moral dilemmas, and philosophical questions through gameplay."
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Health-5
"Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related mechanics."
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Idle-3
"Requires focused attention and immersion; not a casual or background game."
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Intimacy-4
"Limited to narrative relationships; no social or emotional connections with other players."
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Leadership-5
"No leadership or group management elements; single-player story-driven experience."
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Progression1
"Progression through story and puzzle completion rather than item collection or upgrades."
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Relaxation-1
"Atmosphere is tense and unsettling rather than relaxing, though pacing varies."
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Sensation3
"Strong sensory immersion through sound design, visuals, and atmosphere enhances emotional impact."
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Status-5
"No social status or recognition systems; individual experience."
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Story5
"Highly praised narrative with deep philosophical themes and emotional engagement."
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Strategy1
"Some puzzle solving and stealth require planning, but overall gameplay is straightforward."
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Thrill2
"Tense moments and suspenseful encounters create thrill, though not constant."
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Value4
"Players find great value in story, atmosphere, and emotional experience despite short length."
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Violence-3
"Minimal violence; combat is absent and player mostly avoids enemies."
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Survival1
"Some stealth and avoidance of threats, but no complex survival mechanics."
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Last update: 06/03/2026