Still Wakes the Deep was released in 2024. It was well received, scoring 7.4/10 on average. I loved the original, but never reviewed it. Accordingly, when I saw the Siren’s Rest DLC announced, I knew I had to get my hands on it. This short but sweet addition uses many of the original core mechanics. Furthermore, it contains storyline spoilers, so it is advised to play this in the correct order.
This suspenseful, stealth adventure was developed by The Chinese Room and published by Secret Mode. It is a first-person, single-player title with minor puzzle elements. However, it is the sense of despair and claustrophobia that shines. Though it is linear, I enjoyed my time swimming through tight corridors and collecting evidence. Additionally, the creaks and groans of the Beira D are as haunting as the mystery that hides in the shadows.
Siren’s Rest DLC tells a chilling tale.
Losing loved ones to an unexplained accident is heartbreaking. The sense of loss and confusion sharpens every emotion. Unfortunately, the heroine lost her father on board the oil rig. Determined to get answers and help others grieve, she leads a saturation diving team to the wreck. What should be a straightforward task turns into a nightmare. Air pockets, strange noises, and an ever-shifting vessel present a dangerous and unprecedented mission.
Alongside the incredible story is a daunting and uncomfortable layer of claustrophobia. Moving from room to room is arduous, slow, and tough. Furthermore, access points are rusted shut, and you must use precision tools to open new pathways.
Simple mechanics.
Though the story, atmosphere, and characters are great, the core mechanics are simple. The developer relies on slow and deliberate bouts of music and emptiness to build suspense. Moreover, basic puzzles and QTEs break up the rudimentary pathways and linear action.
The hero must use a lifeline to move under the water. Yet, tight spaces and a massive cable rarely work. As such, she unclips her oxygen to explore the wreckage further. This causes concern, risk, and a lack of communication with her team. What’s more, her mind plays tricks on her as the shadows move, and voices and a strange noise haunt her.
Siren’s Rest DLC looks great, but it’s flawed.
Underwater action makes me extremely uncomfortable. The sense of dread and doom is too much. Moreover, it can be horribly disorientating. Siren’s Rest DLC captures all of these things to its credit. The world is small, unruly, and constantly shifting.
Furthermore, there are some nice details and nods to the original. Though I enjoyed my trip to the inky depths of the North Sea, it wasn’t without its flaws. Your life line cuts through walls and clips items. Thankfully, I’ve been advised that this issue and other minor bugs have now been removed with an early patch.
The audio was divine! The acting is incredible, and the ambient sounds are spectacular. The rig creaks and groans like an old lady. Additionally, the crash of rocks and metal was great to listen to. On top of this, the music is a phenomenal blend of slow tracks and hectic upbeat numbers. The sense of drama and tension is palpable, and I adored every moment.
Tight controls.
Moving around a sunken graveyard requires precision. Luckily, the tight controls, slick UI, and easy-to-follow layout let you focus on the action. Moving between water and air pockets was easy. Additionally, the QTEs are simple to master if you are alert.
Siren’s Rest DLC lasts around 3 hours. The ending is abrupt, but I loved the metaphor and the heart-stopping moments. Completionists will have items to search for, and there is a healthy achievement list to work towards. If this isn’t your thing, there is little reason to return.
Siren’s Rest DLC is fantastic.
Though I wanted more, I cherished every moment. The story is beautifully told, and the setting is fantastic. Yes, there were bugs, but most of these issues should now be ironed out. Accordingly, if you love the base game, I suggest buying this here! Can you uncover the mystery and grieve? Search the rig, find the evidence, and believe what you see and hear.
