By Karoline Castillo-Troncoso

(Minor spoilers ahead) From the creators of Gris, Neva is a completely captivating offering developed by Nomada Studio and published by Devolver Digital. Neva follows the thrilling escapade of the protagonist as she forges a profound bond with an extraordinary wolf. Navigating a world becoming engulfed by oncoming darkness, they are the catalyst that ignites the light and revive scenes that were formerly unfruitful.

The 2D platformer advances through seasons (or chapters) and provides an immersive, colorful, and cinematic experience for players, followed by sounds and music that seamlessly complement and enhance every scenario. Throughout the game’s plotline, modulation, and subtle nuances enrich the plot, showcasing the developer’s meticulous attention to detail. 

The opening cutscene of Neva foreshadows a future event. Nonetheless, it immediately engrosses players upon first glance with its devastating impact – at least, that was my experience. The opener illustrates the protagonist in a vulnerable state surrounded by enemies. Just when it seems as though all is lost, her loyal canine companion arrives, courageously fighting on her behalf, only to be overwhelmed by the darkness –howling in what seems to be defeat. 

The scene shifts, and the protagonist is seen resting with a white pup. In earlier stages, Neva was small, and so was the amount of  courage she could muster. However, as she began to evolve, so did her bravery. No longer was she left fearful in the face monster-infested scenes. Despite the pressure regarding the tragic reality of a rapidly dying world, Neva becomes a fearless creature ready to combat circumstances and adversaries!

As players progress through the game, they have the ability to call for Neva. As seasons change, the protagonist’s tone when calling Neva varies depending on the severity or condition of the particular circumstance. For example, when Neva encounters a foreign wolf, they share moments of connection, disappearing as they walk into the distance. The scene shifts to the protagonist treading up a snowy hill. She calls to Neva; reflecting her sorrow at the absence of her beloved companion, her tone becomes sad and downtrodden, in contrast to the uplifted and gentle tone she used in former scenarios. Another instance is when the protagonist calls out for Neva; nowhere to be seen. The tone then resembles that of desperation and a frantic urgency to find her. The game makers’ implementation of varying dynamics concerning the protagonist’s voice showcases the contrast of the game’s plot. This cadence subtly illustrates the depth of every circumstance and emotionally draws players into the storyline.

 In earlier stages, Neva was small, and her courage to match. However, as she began to evolve, so did her bravery. No longer was she left fearful in the face monster-infested scenes. Despite the pressure regarding the tragic reality of a rapidly dying world, Neva becomes a fearless creature ready to combat circumstances and adversaries!

Depending on the chapter/season, combat in Neva offers fast-paced and rather challenging encounters. Such encounters involve the protagonist and dark, skeletal creatures with what appears to be a white mask, with no striking or evident facial features other than that of holes in place of eyes and a mouth. Other enemies resemble this same description yet with wings, while others were amalgamations of these creatures forming larger beings with disproportionally smaller arms and legs. 

Sometimes, such creatures would invade the bodies of deceased animals, such as bison or deer, and would control them. The only way to defeat them in this state was in the brief instances when they would emerge from the animal’s mouth. The final boss battle is especially intense, with an adversary towering two or three times taller than the protagonist. Such fights are a true adrenaline rush, becoming addictive as you repeatedly think, “I almost had it!”, or, “I’m getting the hang of it, now.” 

Enemies in Neva don’t have health bars, so there’s no way of telling when they’re about to die. As the seasons progress, enemies evolve and become much more resilient and resourceful. They begin using elements from the scene, such as boulders, parts of infrastructure, and even throwing balls of dirt from afar to catch you off guard. Even when you land what seems like an impactful blow, they often keep fighting, much like resilient cockroaches. However, having persistence and finally defeating that enemy is incredibly satisfying. Significant battles in the game are followed by cutscenes that keep you on the edge of your seat, wondering what will happen next. 

Brilliantly, the developers were able to capture the essence of the loyal and unbreakable bond between a human and their canine companion. I would recommend Neva to players who enjoy puzzle and adventure games – along with beautiful art styling. With thrilling combat at every turn, this game is sure to entertain and intrigue players. The storyline is rich and gratifying, allowing players to look forward to and anticipate what’s next. Aside from Gris, you’ve “Neva” heard of a game like this!

Karoline is our intern from the Bronx’s TapCo school. She won our scholarship for writing a social justive-oriented, one-act play based on a video game.

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