In Other Waters

Lore & Background

In Other Waters places players in the role of an artificial intelligence that supports xenobiologist Ellery Vas, who works for an interplanetary mining corporation. The AI monitors her life support, collects and analyzes samples, and manages mission goals. Players cannot directly interact with the world but receive feedback from Ellery based on her observations.

The game was developed by Gareth Damian Martin, a self-taught Unity developer who had prior industry experience. Martin combined interests in diving, climate change, and video games to form the initial idea. They aimed to create a world using text and the game's user interface rather than direct experience.

On Metacritic, the PC version received mixed reviews while the Switch version received positive reviews. OpenCritic reported strong approval, with 78% of critics recommending the game. Reviewers described it as meditative, calming, and lovely, even when uncovering dark secrets about the planet.

Reader's Guide

In Other Waters stands as a distinctive entry in the adventure game genre, notable for its unconventional interface-driven storytelling. By limiting player interaction to text and UI elements, the game emphasizes world-building over traditional puzzle-solving or action. Its reception was divided: while some critics praised its hypnotic art, otherworldly audio, and captivating writing, others found the lack of puzzles and repetitive gameplay detracted from the experience. The game's meditative tone and focus on environmental themes—drawn from the developer's interest in diving and climate change—set it apart from more conventional sci-fi titles. It also served as a precursor to the developer's next game, Citizen Sleeper, and is listed among underwater science fiction works. Its legacy lies in demonstrating how a small team can create a compelling narrative experience through minimalist design and thoughtful use of interface as a storytelling tool.

Did You Know?

• The game was developed by a one-person studio based in London called Jump Over the Age.
• Players control an AI that assists xenobiologist Ellery Vas on the alien planet Gliese 667 Cc.
• The developer, Gareth Damian Martin, is self-taught in developing games in Unity.
• The initial idea came from combining interests in diving, climate change, and video games.