Magic Design Studios, the developer behind the cult-hit Have a Nice Death, is venturing into new waters with Nautus, an upcoming game that pairs a cozy, tropical island life with Metroidvania-inspired underwater survival. Set to offer a colorful departure from its predecessor's gothic aesthetic, Nautus promises a unique blend of relaxed surface living and deep-sea exploration.
Players will assume the role of a young explorer arriving at a tranquil island in search of a lost uncle. The surface gameplay emphasizes community building and routine, where players interact with quirky island inhabitants and gather resources to maintain and upgrade their base. This segment is described as akin to a classic Cartoon Network animated series, focusing on a chill and atmospheric experience.
This serene island life serves as a counterpoint to the game's underwater excursions. Once players gain access to a submersible, Nautus shifts into a survival-action experience. Navigating the depths requires careful management of the submersible's energy and the diver's oxygen supply, while fending off hostile aquatic life. The goal is to explore progressively deeper waters, uncovering mysteries about the island and the fate of the player's uncle.
Game designer Damian Carmona explained that the shift to a vibrant ocean setting was a deliberate choice to create a more colorful and upbeat experience compared to Have a Nice Death. The developers aimed to capture the thrill and mystery of submarine exploration, similar to Subnautica, while maintaining a relaxed surface experience where players can prepare at their own pace. This rhythm between surface preparation and underwater expedition is central to Nautus' design.
Nautus draws inspiration from a range of sources, including Steamworld Dig for its empowerment loop and community building, and Subnautica for its survival and exploration mechanics. The game's character design is also influenced by the humor found in shows like The Office, contributing to its cast of eccentric islanders. Players will interact with characters like Umiko, an elderly mechanic crucial for submersible repairs, and Mitchell, who manages the undersea gear shop.
The underwater environments themselves are designed to be both alluring and eerie, transitioning through diverse biomes that become increasingly alien-like. These captivating locales are intended to provide a stark contrast to the welcoming surface world, encouraging steady exploration. Nautus will enter closed beta on August 31, with sign-ups available now on Steam.