Neva (Cross-platform, 2024)

Release date: Tuesday 15th October 2024

Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch

Published by: Devolver Digital

Developed by: Nomada Studio

Genres: Action, Platformer

Story Driveđź“– 15/20
Accessibility🚪 19/20
Depth🤿 3/20
Challengeđź’€ 8/20
Duration⌛ 6/20
Freedom🌎 4/20
Review Scores
3xFAC
Fouttaf Score
Dimension: 3
Despite the evident effort poured into its artistic vision, Neva proudly wears its indie badge. It’s a compact, focused experience with a humble scope, delivering exactly what it sets out to without straying into overly ambitious territory. Its scale is modest, but its heart is unmistakable.
The Flair: F
Calling the artistic direction the highlight of Neva is a massive understatement. The game doesn’t just excel in its visuals and sound—it lives through them. Every frame, every note, every carefully crafted environment invites you to keep playing just to witness what breathtaking spectacle lies ahead. The visuals and sound design are so striking they could grace the walls of a museum. This is a game that feels like walking through a living, breathing work of art, where every scene feels curated to evoke awe.
The Feel: A
Let’s not beat around the bush: gameplay in Neva is decent, but it doesn’t quite match the lofty heights of its artistic ambition. The platforming and puzzle mechanics are serviceable—well-executed but nothing groundbreaking. However, the combat often feels more like a chore than an enjoyable or integral part of the experience. It’s clear the developers tried to push beyond a traditional walking simulator, which is admirable, but the gameplay doesn’t always feel like it adds to the overall journey. In short, it’s good but could have been better.
The Fuel: C
While the level design isn’t especially memorable beyond its visual splendor, Neva delivers a heartfelt story that unfolds naturally through the gameplay itself. Without heavy dialogue or overt exposition, the game conveys an emotional tale of life, death, and the cycles that bind them. It’s a narrative ripe for personal interpretation, punctuated by moments that tug hard at your heartstrings. A word of advice: keep some tissues nearby—this game knows how to hit you where it hurts.
Great
83
Classic Score
Conclusions
Neva is a title that feels like a moving piece of art, inviting you to feel, reflect, and experience its heartfelt message. While it may not fully satisfy those looking for traditional gameplay or action-heavy experiences, its uniqueness and emotional resonance make it a journey well worth taking. One of 2024’s most pleasant indie surprises.
Neva
Neva (Cross-platform, 2024)
Badge Cabinet
Release date: Tuesday 15th October 2024
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Xbox Series X/S, Nintendo Switch
Published by: Devolver Digital
Developed by: Nomada Studio
Genres: Action, Platformer
Trait Chart
Story Drive đź“– 15/20
Accessibility 🚪 19/20
Depth 🤿 3/20
Challenge đź’€ 8/20
Duration ⌛ 6/20
Freedom 🌎 4/20
Review Scores
3xFAC
Fouttaf Score
Dimension: 3
Despite the evident effort poured into its artistic vision, Neva proudly wears its indie badge. It’s a compact, focused experience with a humble scope, delivering exactly what it sets out to without straying into overly ambitious territory. Its scale is modest, but its heart is unmistakable.
The Flair: F
Calling the artistic direction the highlight of Neva is a massive understatement. The game doesn’t just excel in its visuals and sound—it lives through them. Every frame, every note, every carefully crafted environment invites you to keep playing just to witness what breathtaking spectacle lies ahead. The visuals and sound design are so striking they could grace the walls of a museum. This is a game that feels like walking through a living, breathing work of art, where every scene feels curated to evoke awe.
The Feel: A
Let’s not beat around the bush: gameplay in Neva is decent, but it doesn’t quite match the lofty heights of its artistic ambition. The platforming and puzzle mechanics are serviceable—well-executed but nothing groundbreaking. However, the combat often feels more like a chore than an enjoyable or integral part of the experience. It’s clear the developers tried to push beyond a traditional walking simulator, which is admirable, but the gameplay doesn’t always feel like it adds to the overall journey. In short, it’s good but could have been better.
The Fuel: C
While the level design isn’t especially memorable beyond its visual splendor, Neva delivers a heartfelt story that unfolds naturally through the gameplay itself. Without heavy dialogue or overt exposition, the game conveys an emotional tale of life, death, and the cycles that bind them. It’s a narrative ripe for personal interpretation, punctuated by moments that tug hard at your heartstrings. A word of advice: keep some tissues nearby—this game knows how to hit you where it hurts.
Conclusions

Neva is a title that feels like a moving piece of art, inviting you to feel, reflect, and experience its heartfelt message. While it may not fully satisfy those looking for traditional gameplay or action-heavy experiences, its uniqueness and emotional resonance make it a journey well worth taking. One of 2024’s most pleasant indie surprises.

Great
83
Classic Score