Overview

Life Below is an innovative city-builder game that emphasizes the nurturing of underwater ecosystems over traditional urban planning. Players take the role of a tentacled ocean guardian named Thalassa, tasked with creating and maintaining thriving coral reefs in a world facing ecological decline. Unlike typical city-building games where players focus on electricity and roads, Life Below immerses you in the management of marine life and resources.

Gameplay Mechanics

Players must balance the growth of their underwater communities while navigating environmental stresses such as heatwaves and invasive species. Through thoughtful resource management and strategic expansion, players work to maintain their reef’s health. The unique game mechanics, grounded in marine biology, encourage a nurturing and ecological mindset.

Insights from Development

In a Q&A session, Lise Hagen Lie, the game director, mentioned that the game aims to provide a perspective on underwater life from a more ecological and less exploitative angle. The development team collaborated with marine biologists to form a foundation in reality that informs the gameplay, ensuring a meaningful and educational experience.

Availability

Players can experience Life Below during the upcoming Steam Next Fest, scheduled from June 9 to 16. The demo aims to introduce players to its innovative systems and the tranquility of underwater life, providing a refreshing alternative to the chaos often found in traditional city builders.