Explore the Ocean’s Darkest Depths in Sub-Species, a New 2.5D Alien Shooter
A new sci-fi action title is emerging from the depths, and it’s bringing plenty of tension, atmosphere, and extraterrestrial terror with it. Sub-Species, a 2.5D alien shooter set entirely beneath the ocean’s surface, has been officially revealed—promising players a gripping blend of side-scrolling combat, underwater survival, and mysterious deep-sea worldbuilding.
Developed by Abyssal Forge Studios, Sub-Species takes place in the pitch-black ocean trenches of a future Earth, where an unknown alien presence has infected the marine ecosystem. Players assume the role of a deep-sea recon specialist tasked with investigating a silent underwater facility—and battling through mutated creatures, hostile fauna, and bio-engineered horrors lurking in the abyss.
A Deadly Ocean World With a 2.5D Perspective
Sub-Species uses a cinematic 2.5D perspective, combining classic side-scrolling action with richly rendered 3D environments. Dynamic lighting, floating sediment, shifting shadows, and bioluminescent creatures help create a tense, claustrophobic atmosphere as players navigate narrow trenches and abandoned research corridors.
The developers emphasize that the ocean itself is a constant threat. Visibility is limited, oxygen is scarce, and hostile alien organisms have adapted to use the darkness to their advantage.
Alien Combat With Tactical Depth
Combat in Sub-Species focuses on fast reflexes and careful resource management. Players must:
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Master a selection of futuristic underwater weapons, including sonic rifles, pressure-compression pistols, and electrically charged blades
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Use mobility tools, like propulsion boosters and zipline grapples, to maneuver through vertical and horizontal terrain
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Outsmart evolving alien species that change their behavior based on light, sound, and proximity
Each alien type has unique biology and movement patterns, adding strategic depth to encounters.
Exploration, Survival, and Environmental Storytelling
Beyond the action, Sub-Species places heavy emphasis on exploration and unraveling a mystery. The ocean is littered with:
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Ruins of scientific outposts
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Failed experiments locked behind pressure doors
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Submerged caverns filled with bioluminescent flora
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Audio logs and artifacts hinting at humanity’s failed attempt to control the alien infection
Players will uncover the dark origins of the Sub-Species outbreak and decide whether to contain it—or destroy everything to stop it from reaching the surface.
Immersive Visuals and Sound Design
Abyssal Forge Studios revealed that the team is prioritizing environmental immersion. The sound design reflects crushing underwater pressure, distant creature calls, echoing metal corridors, and sudden bursts of static from failing communications equipment.
The art direction blends deep-sea horror with sleek sci-fi technology, creating an unsettling contrast between high-tech weaponry and primal alien organisms.
Early Reactions and Release Plans
Early previews have drawn comparisons to titles like Deadlight, The Swapper, and classic arcade shooters—enhanced by a more atmospheric and survival-driven approach.
Sub-Species is expected to launch on PC first, with console versions likely to follow. More gameplay footage and a full content roadmap are planned to be revealed in the coming months.
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