Independent video games continue to carve out a space for themselves in the interactive entertainment sector with highly original ideas that seek to break away from industry conventions. In this sense, there are studios that specialise in this type of idea, creating their own identity that players can quickly recognize just by looking at some concept art or the artistic style of the games in question. Giant Squid is one of those studios that is easy to define in the sector, with a very distinctive colourful style and interesting gameplay centered around beauty.

The creators of games such as Journey, Abzû and The Pathless are embarking on a new adventure that exudes the essence of the studio after just a few seconds of gameplay. Sword of the Sea is the new adventure they are undertaking, a title in which users must surf on a sword through a wide variety of environments, with a clear message to care for the world we live in and the importance of looking after its main elements so that we can continue to enjoy its beauty.

Sword of the Sea takes players to deserts, seas, and frozen tundras with formidable level design that aims to capture the spiritual magic of surfing. All this with the aim of offering great fun, but also that dose of adrenaline and danger that characterises extreme sports such as surfing. A unique title that hides a great secret waiting to be discovered by all players who embark on this new adventure.

Surfing as never seen before

The gameplay of Sword of the Sea is at the heart of its concept, fusing the intensity of extreme sports with the serenity of the contemplative experiences for which Giant Squid has made a name for itself in the industry. Players control a mysterious protagonist who uses an enchanted sword as a means of transport, gliding through open environments with a freedom reminiscent of the vast landscapes of Journey. The ‘surfing’ mechanics are intuitive yet deep, allowing for acrobatic moves, spins, and jumps that require skill and practice to master completely. Each environment, whether a scorching desert, an endless ocean, or a snow-covered tundra, presents unique challenges, from unpredictable currents to treacherous slopes, keeping the player constantly alert.

A notable aspect is how the game integrates its environmental message into its design. As players explore, they encounter echoes of a world that has been transformed by human neglect, with landscapes that alternate between pristine beauty and degraded areas that evoke many emotions. This contrast not only enriches the narrative, but also motivates players to interact with the environment in a conscious way, collecting resources or restoring natural elements to unlock new areas. This mechanic, though subtle, reinforces the message of caring for the planet without being preachy, maintaining a balance between fun and the intended message.

The technical aspect also shines with its own light. The controls, optimised for consoles and PCs, take full advantage of the capabilities of modern platforms, offering a smooth response that makes every slide satisfying, which is key in this type of game. In addition, the title includes an optional cooperative mode that allows two players to explore together, sharing the excitement of discovering new landscapes and solving environmental puzzles as a team. This feature adds a social dimension to the experience, making Sword of the Sea ideal for both those seeking a solo adventure and those who want to share the journey, as was the case with Journey.

A feast for the senses

Giant Squid's hallmark has always been its artistic direction, and Sword of the Sea is no exception. The settings are designed in a style that combines vibrant colours and detailed textures, creating a contrast between the majesty of nature and the remnants of a forgotten world. Deserts glow with golden hues under a blazing sun, seas reflect an endless sky with deep blue tones, and tundras flash with blinding white dotted with northern lights. Each biome has its own personality, reinforced by fluid animations that make the sword's movement seem like a dance with the environment.

Sword of the Sea arrives at a time when independent video games are gaining increasing recognition, not only for their creativity, but also for their ability to address relevant issues. Just as Journey and Abzû touched on themes of connection and spirituality, this new title invites players to reflect on their relationship with the environment while enjoying an experience full of adrenaline and beauty. Giant Squid seeks not only to entertain, but also to inspire, and Sword of the Sea has the potential to become a new benchmark within the indie genre.