Sub-Species is a new retro-inspired underwater shooter from developer Howling Hamster Entertainment, which will be released on Steam. The developer has described Sub-Species as a “2.5D multidirectional shooter set deep beneath Earth’s oceans after a devastating alien outbreak”. Players will control an armoured submarine that rotates 360° to face threats from every direction as they complete missions. The game promises a mix of mission types, from defusing reactors, clearing enemy swarms, exploring the depths, and discovering remains of previous expeditions.

The developer also mentions that Sub-Species has been heavily influenced by Sub-Terrania, Ecco the Dolphin, The Abyss, and The Blue Planet. The first look trailer shows us some of the gameplay mechanics, which include tackling waves of underwater monsters, solving puzzles, and exploring the depths. We also see a glimpse of the ancient alien structures and technology that the aliens have left behind, and some classic arcade gameplay that the developer is looking to recreate.

“The deep ocean is the closest thing we have to an alien world on Earth,” said Creative Director Manus Burke. “We wanted players to feel that tension, the beauty that pulls you in, and the fear that reminds you you’re not supposed to be there.”

Key features:

Full 360° Combat: Face alien swarms from every direction with fluid, responsive controls.

Strategic Tools: Use flares, mines and dodge bursts to outsmart and outlast your enemies.

Evolving Missions: Explore wrecks, rescue submarines and uncover hidden secrets in hostile zones.

Handcrafted Environments: From naval ruins to alien caverns, every location brings new challenges.

Two Play Modes: Story-driven single player and competitive local versus mode.