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SOMA

Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows), Linux, Mac, PlayStation 4 • 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

  • Autonomy
    3

    "Players explore and interact with environment objects freely, making moral choices that affect their experience, though the game is mostly linear."

  • Competence
    1

    "Gameplay involves exploration, puzzle solving, and stealth with some challenge, but puzzles are generally simple and combat is absent."

  • Competition
    -5

    "Single-player experience focused on personal story and exploration without any competitive elements."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players report immersive experience and emotional attachment leading to replay and reflection, though gameplay is not highly addictive."

  • Cooperation
    -5

    "Entirely single-player with no multiplayer or cooperative gameplay."

  • Creativity
    2

    "Players interact with many objects and solve puzzles creatively, but within a fixed narrative and environment."

  • Domination
    -5

    "No social or multiplayer elements involving dominance or power over others."

  • Escapism
    4

    "Strong immersion in a deep sci-fi horror world provides escape from reality and existential reflection."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily driven by interest in story, atmosphere, and philosophical themes."

  • Experimenting
    1

    "Some exploration and puzzle solving encourages experimentation, but mostly within established gameplay loops."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Exploration of underwater stations and environments is a key part of gameplay and story discovery."

  • Expression
    -3

    "Limited character customization or self-expression; focus is on narrative and atmosphere."

  • Fantasy
    3

    "Fictional sci-fi setting with philosophical and existential themes, blending horror and speculative fiction."

  • Fellowship
    -5

    "Solo experience with minimal social interaction or community involvement."

  • Growth
    3

    "Players develop understanding of story, moral dilemmas, and philosophical questions through gameplay."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related mechanics."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and immersion; not a casual or background game."

  • Intimacy
    -4

    "Limited to narrative relationships; no social or emotional connections with other players."

  • Leadership
    -5

    "No leadership or group management elements; single-player story-driven experience."

  • Progression
    1

    "Progression through story and puzzle completion rather than item collection or upgrades."

  • Relaxation
    -1

    "Atmosphere is tense and unsettling rather than relaxing, though pacing varies."

  • Sensation
    3

    "Strong sensory immersion through sound design, visuals, and atmosphere enhances emotional impact."

  • Status
    -5

    "No social status or recognition systems; individual experience."

  • Story
    5

    "Highly praised narrative with deep philosophical themes and emotional engagement."

  • Strategy
    1

    "Some puzzle solving and stealth require planning, but overall gameplay is straightforward."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Tense moments and suspenseful encounters create thrill, though not constant."

  • Value
    4

    "Players find great value in story, atmosphere, and emotional experience despite short length."

  • Violence
    -3

    "Minimal violence; combat is absent and player mostly avoids enemies."

  • Survival
    1

    "Some stealth and avoidance of threats, but no complex survival mechanics."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026