We first reported on Under the Island in February this year. The game, developed by Slime King Games and published by Top Hat Studios, is out now on Steam for $19.99. We’ve had a go for ourselves, and must say we’re delighted with our time with Under the Island. The developer promised a classic adventure, and this has certainly been delivered. Anyone who has fond memories of Zelda on the SNES will instantly get to grips with most of the mechanics quickly. Everything from the devilishly implemented puzzles to the tough but fair battle system, as well as the classic dungeons with an overworld map connecting them all, is here.
As with all great 16-bit adventures, there is a hero who needs to go on a fantastic journey. In Under the Island, you play as Nina, who has just started a life on Seashell Island. Your adventure begins, and you find out about the island and how it will sink into the ocean soon. This then starts an epic set of events to uncover secrets, battle with bosses, solve puzzles, upgrade your equipment, explore a large world, and save your new world. The story is well thought out and has some interesting characters. It does lean on some standard genre tropes from time to time, but overall, the way the story unfolded had us intrigued throughout.
Controlling Nina couldn’t be simpler, and the developers have put a lot of thought into making this feel retro but still have many modern ideas. Attacking and interacting with enemies or objects feels natural and responsive, with different weapons being equipped by selecting a corresponding action button. There are also straightforward menus with clear maps and inventory screens that streamline the gameplay and let you get on with exploring.
Throughout Under the Island, you will pick up different parts needed to upgrade one of your tools and weapons, or to buy something altogether new, and these felt well spaced and acted as nods of progress for the player. It was also fun re-exploring parts of the maps we had already seen, trying to remember doors or paths we couldn’t get to the first time. Finally, having the equipment needed to open up secrets also felt rewarding, and there are lots of reasons to track back at times.
The graphics in Under the Island are spot on in creating a true 16-bit feel; this game really feels like it could’ve been a late SNES or early PlayStation title. There is some great animation to see along the way, especially from some of the larger enemies or bosses, that can fill the screen or be part of a big set piece. The overhead map and dungeons also shine with a crisp retro look, and all this is backed up by an excellent soundtrack that again hits all the right retro vibes.
Overall, fans of 16-bit adventure games will have lots to like about Under the Island. There is an intriguing story, vibrant, colorful visuals, a great chiptune soundtrack, and some tight gameplay, as well as unique puzzles. There are times when it plays it a bit safe, but there is more than enough originality, memorable characters, and superb presentation to help it stand out. Under the Island promised to pay homage to the classics whilst adding in some modern twists, and on both those fronts, it succeeds.
