Aquanox Deep Descent

Aquanox: Deep Descent is the fourth installment of the cult series of shooters in which we sit behind the controls of futuristic submarines, initiated in 1997 by the game Archimedean Dynasty. Production was developed by Serbian studio Digital Arrow (earlier Massive Development team took care of the series), and its creation was possible thanks to successful crowdfunding on Kickstarter.

Storyline

Aquanox: Deep Descent offers us a grim vision of the future. After the surface of the Earth became unfit for life, humanity decided to move underwater. In the face of dwindling supplies and limited access to raw materials, the world christened Aqua was quickly divided by warring factions. During the game we land in the middle of their conflict and it depends only on us how our story will unfold in this universe.

Mechanics

In Aquanox: Deep Descent we observe the action from the eyes of a submarine pilot (FPP). During the gameplay we explore vast depths and perform various tasks; from searching wrecks, through obtaining resources and trade, to assaults and clashes with enemies. The money we earn can be used to buy new boats or better equipment for the existing ones, so over time we can face more and more challenges. It depends on us whether we decide on a universal (which works well in almost any situation) or a more specialized unit (such as a heavy cruiser or a fast and agile bathyscaph). Buying new parts, on the other hand, it's worth remembering that each of them has a direct impact on the statistics of the unit we control, which is reflected, among others, in its strength, speed, attack power or maneuverability.

Of course, in the underwater world dominated by the war of factions clashes with enemies are the order of the day. During them we have to show dexterity and reflexes, using the benefits of control allowing for maneuvering in almost 360 degrees. Additionally, nothing stands in the way of avoiding gunfire, making quick moves to the side or using the afterburner. As for the available weaponry - the main arsenal includes a torpedo launcher (Breaker), a heavy machine gun (Stingray) or a cannon that fires a cloud of metal shrapnel at enemies. Each of these weapons has also a stronger, alternative version adapted to specific situations. In addition, we have a wide range of secondary weapons at our disposal; although the ammunition for them is infinite, they overheat easily and then need some time to return to combat readiness.

Game modes

The pillar of Aquanox: Deep Descent is the story mode, in which we can play alone or cooperatively with up to three players. What's interesting, even during solo play we are constantly accompanied by three AI-controlled pilots; thanks to that our friends can join us at any time. In addition, there is a PvP module to check out, consisting of such modes as Deathmatch and Team Deathmatch.

Technical matters

Aquanox: Deep Descent can boast of high-quality graphics. It goes hand in hand with polished sound design.