Abzû

Abzu

Abzu screenshot.jpg

Abzû is an adventure video game developed by Giant Squid Studios and published by 505 Games. The game was released for PlayStation 4, Windows, and Xbox One in August 2016, and later for Nintendo Switch in November 2018. The game is notable for its beautiful underwater environments and its emphasis on exploration and relaxation.

Gameplay

In Abzû, players take on the role of a diver exploring the depths of the ocean. The game is played from a third-person perspective, and the primary focus is on swimming and interacting with marine life. Unlike many other video games, Abzû does not feature combat or traditional challenges. Instead, the game encourages players to explore and enjoy the serene underwater world. The diver can perform various actions such as swimming, diving, and interacting with objects and creatures. The game features a variety of marine life, including fish, sharks, and whales, which the player can observe and sometimes interact with. The game also includes puzzle elements, where players must solve environmental puzzles to progress through the game.

Development

Abzû was developed by Giant Squid Studios, a studio founded by Matt Nava, who previously worked as the art director for the critically acclaimed games Journey and Flower. The game's art style and emphasis on exploration and relaxation are heavily influenced by Nava's previous work. The game's soundtrack was composed by Austin Wintory, who also composed the music for Journey. The music in Abzû plays a significant role in creating the game's atmosphere, with dynamic compositions that change based on the player's actions and the environment.

Reception

Abzû received generally positive reviews from critics, who praised its art style, music, and relaxing gameplay. The game was often compared to Journey due to its similar themes and gameplay mechanics. Critics highlighted the game's ability to create a sense of wonder and tranquility, making it a unique experience in the video game industry.

Etymology

The title Abzû is derived from the ancient Sumerian words "ab" (ocean) and "zu" (to know), which together can be interpreted as "ocean of wisdom". This reflects the game's theme of exploring the depths of the ocean and discovering its secrets.

See also

• Journey (2012 video game)
• Flower (video game)
• Giant Squid Studios
• Austin Wintory