An Emotional Adventure

Developed by Nomada Studio and published by Devolver Digital, Neva takes players on a moving adventure, diving deep into themes of love, survival, and transformation. Following the critical success of their previous title Gris and announced at Summer Game Fest, Nomada Studio has crafted an emotionally charged action-adventure that brings the story of a young woman named Alba and her wolf companion (the titular Neva) to life. This visually stunning game blends heartfelt storytelling with dynamic gameplay, ensuring players are fully immersed from start to finish. This is a game you have to experience.

A Heartfelt Journey: Alba and Her Wolf Companion

In Neva, players meet Alba, a young woman connected to wolf cub Neva after a traumatic event with dark forces. Together, Alba and her cub face a decaying world, learning to rely on each other as they traverse increasingly treacherous landscapes. As they face danger, Alba’s bond with Neva deepens, transforming from companionship to an unbreakable partnership. Their relationship evolves as the cub matures into an imposing adult, eventually testing Alba’s love and loyalty.

The game resonated deeply with me, reflecting themes reminiscent of Princess Mononoke—but with its own unique flair. This journey draws on the strength of connection, the courage to survive, and the challenges of a world scarred by dark forces.

Stunning Visuals: A Painting in Motion

Neva is more than a game; it’s an art piece. Each frame feels like a masterpiece, with a visually rich world crafted with love and meticulous detail. From Alba’s flowing cape to petals drifting in the wind, every moment brims with artistry, creating a dreamlike atmosphere. Nomada Studio’s attention to detail captivates players, making each scene unforgettable. The cinematic presentation heightens emotional moments, emphasizing the weight of Alba and Neva’s journey.

For those who love capturing in-game beauty, Neva offers endless opportunities. Each moment in the game is screenshot-worthy, as every level presents a unique, beautifully framed experience that could stand alone as artwork.

Engaging Combat Mechanics: Fluid and Satisfying

Unlike Gris, Neva introduces combat mechanics that feel seamlessly integrated, providing players with a fluid, satisfying experience. Despite being Nomada Studio’s first venture into combat design, each encounter feels polished and dynamic. Players face off against a variety of foes, from towering enemies to swarms of smaller adversaries, each battle requiring precision and skill.

Successfully executing dodges and attacks feels rewarding, adding a layer of immersion and making each encounter feel impactful. The combat mechanics don’t disrupt the artistic feel but enhance it, providing a deeper, more interactive layer to the experience.

A Perfectly Paced Story with Lasting Impact

The game’s story takes approximately four to five hours to complete—just the right length for a memorable, impactful experience. The pacing is impeccable, never feeling rushed or overstretched. Every moment has purpose, and the journey leaves a lasting impression on players, offering a reminder of the beauty and pain that exist side-by-side in life.

Neva portrays a cycle of life’s challenges and triumphs, reflecting on how love and loyalty can help us survive even the darkest moments. Alba’s resilience, alongside Neva’s unwavering presence, provides a deeply moving narrative that resonates beyond the screen.

An Artistic Masterpiece Worth Experiencing

The game excels on every level—from its breathtaking visuals to its engaging gameplay and emotional story. Nomada Studio has created a masterpiece that explores complex themes while delivering a truly unforgettable experience. For those looking for a game that blends beauty, emotion, and action, Neva is a must-play.

Neva is a triumph in storytelling and game design. It captures the heart with its emotional depth, captivates the eye with its artful visuals, and challenges the player with its engaging combat. The journey Alba and Neva take against the dark forces reminds us of the challenges life presents, the beauty and ugliness of the world, the cycle of life and the inherit nature of how beautiful and sad it can be. Ultimately the love we have for those close to us can support you through the darkest of times. Neva reminds us of the strength found in companionship and the beauty that can arise from adversity.

Title: Neva
Developer: Nomada Studio
Publisher: Devolver Digital
Platform: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch
Kurosh’s Verdict: 10/10

Reviewed on PS5.

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