Info about Neva:

Official game description:
  
Neva is an emotionally-charged action adventure from the visionary team behind the critically acclaimed GRIS.  
Neva chronicles the story of Alba, a young woman bound to a curious wolf cub following a traumatic encounter with dark forces. Together they embark on a perilous journey through a once-beautiful world as it slowly decays around them.  
Over time, their relationship will evolve as they learn to work together, helping one another to brave increasingly dangerous situations. The wolf will grow from a rebellious cub to an imposing adult seeking to forge her own identity, testing Alba’s love and their commitment to one another.  
As the cursed world threatens to overwhelm them, Alba and her courageous companion will do whatever it takes to survive and make a new home, together.

Release date: Oct 15, 2024

Categories: 2D Platformer, Action-Adventure, Emotional Storytelling, Wolf Companion, Visual Storytelling, Puzzle Platformer, Exploration

Feature scans:
- MTX: score 10; verdict: Fair / Traditional DLC; summary: The reviews primarily discuss a paid Prologue DLC priced as a low-cost traditional expansion. Most feedback is positive about its fair price and added content, with one complaint about the base game's price and the paid DLC being unwelcome. There is no direct evidence of real-money gacha, loot boxes, battle passes, paid currency, pay-to-win, or an in-game cash shop. The monetization profile is fair and non-predatory.
- Proton/Linux: score 10; verdict: Works Well; summary: The filtered reviews contain only positive Steam Deck evidence: the game is playable on Deck and runs attractively on OLED Deck. There are no reports of Proton, native Linux, anti-cheat, launcher, DRM, launch, crash, or performance blockers. The only noted issue is small visuals when zooming out, which is a minor Steam Deck display concern rather than a Linux compatibility defect.
- Steam Deck: score 35; verdict: Playable with minor-to-moderate readability caveats; summary: The Steam Deck reviews for Neva show no launcher, anti-cheat, Proton, or crash barriers. The game generally runs well, looks attractive on OLED, and can be completed on Deck. The main friction is small-screen readability: zoomed-out visuals, off brightness, and a small display make enemies and grappling points difficult to see, and some reviewers prefer larger screens. Controls are playable, but the Deck D-pad is described as mushier than alternatives, and controller use is strongly recommended.

- Hardware Profile:
  - Summary: Across the provided Windows hardware cohorts, the game is reported to run well, with smooth performance on low-end systems and strong technical results on higher-end configurations.
  - Sample size: 118 (4% coverage)
  - Audience skew: Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
  - Windows <8GB VRAM (positive, 53 reports): Reviewers report smooth performance even on integrated graphics and low-end machines.
  - Windows 12-15GB VRAM (positive, 24 reports): Reviewers report very strong technical performance, including high frame rates on handheld hardware and high-quality visuals on 4K OLED.
  - Caveats: 118 of 2914 reviews expose hardware metadata.; Review sample is mostly Windows-based.
Feature extractions:
- Community Price:
  - Community fair range: $10.00 - $15.00
  - Reasoning: Reviews repeatedly treat the $20 full price as too high for a roughly 4-5 hour game, and many recommend waiting for a discount. The most common acceptable value points cluster around half price, about $10, and sale prices up to $15. Some reviewers defend full price, but the broader sentiment favors a lower base price. This supports a community fair base-game range of about $10-$15.
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 5.0h
  - Story completion: 4.0h
  - Session length: 4.0h
  - Endgame: 1.5h
  - Reasoning: The translated review quote reporting about 5 hours including achievement completion supports gameCompletion at roughly 5 hours for a full completion run. Another translated review states that limiting play to the story takes 3-4 hours, supporting storyCompletion around 4 hours. The session note shows a single play session of about 4 hours, supporting sessionLength. The DLC quote describes about 1 to 1.5 hours of additional content, so endgame is set to about 1.5 hours.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Neva's time-to-fun profile is 'clicks after': the opening act is often described as slow and too combat-heavy, but the game becomes more interesting and better paced after the first chapter as new mechanics appear.
  - Stance: Clicks after
  - Anchor: After the first chapter, when new ideas/mechanics and pace pick up.
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Slow opening act; Too many early combat encounters; Combat-heavy early gameplay; Repetitive combat loop; Simple and clunky combat; Tedious traversal and jumping puzzles
  - Unlock drivers: New and surprising ideas/mechanics after the first chapter; Pace picks up after the first chapter; Progression makes the gameplay more interesting; Introduction of new monsters and abilities; Difficulty curve keeps pace with the player
  - Conditions: After the first chapter; As the player progresses through the game; When new monsters and abilities are introduced; For players who do not expect a dedicated fighting game; For players who value art, music, and style over gameplay depth; For players new to platforming; Once past the initially obtuse narrative; If the player prefers puzzles over combat
- Player Archetypes:
  - Contemplative Art-Seeker (buy)
    - Motivation: To immerse in Neva's painterly visuals, music, and emotional story as a short interactive art experience.
    - Playstyle: Plays slowly, often on Story mode, prioritizing atmosphere, narrative, and light puzzles over difficult combat.
    - Experience: mixed
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: GRIS
  - GRIS Veteran Comparator (sale)
    - Motivation: To see whether Neva lives up to GRIS and Nomada Studio's previous artistic and emotional impact.
    - Playstyle: Plays with a critical comparative lens, weighing Neva's mechanics, pacing, art, and music against GRIS.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: GRIS
  - Achievement and Collectible Completionist (buy)
    - Motivation: To earn easy achievements and find every collectible, including optional chapter-replay content.
    - Playstyle: Hunts achievements and collectibles, revisits chapters, and uses completion progress as a main source of fun.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: Celeste
  - Combat-Focused Action Skeptic (no buy)
    - Motivation: To find satisfying, well-tuned action combat and challenging boss fights.
    - Playstyle: Engages primarily with combat, dodging, hitboxes, and boss encounters, judging the game by action-game standards.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Stunning Art and Visuals (weight 0.99): Reviewers consistently praise the game's art and visuals as breathtaking, with many describing every frame as a work of art or a wallpaper. The aesthetic quality is a standout feature, often compared to a painting or masterpiece.
- Emotional and Touching Story (weight 0.53): The narrative is frequently described as touching, heartwarming, and emotionally impactful, with many reviewers mentioning it brought them to tears. The story's emotional depth and ability to leave a mark are highly praised.
- Exceptional Music and Soundtrack (weight 0.44): The music and soundtrack are widely acclaimed as beautiful, fitting, and top-notch, enhancing the overall experience. Many reviewers highlight the soundtrack as one of the strongest points of the game.
- Engaging Puzzles and Platforming (weight 0.36): Puzzles are frequently praised as creative, clever, and rewarding, while platforming is seen as fun, smooth, and a core enjoyable element. The mix of platforming and combat is also noted as well-balanced.
- Accessible and Enjoyable Gameplay (weight 0.36): The gameplay is often described as intuitive, simple but effective, and polished, making it accessible to a wide range of players. Reviewers appreciate that it is fun without being overly challenging.
- Strong Connection to Gris (weight 0.34): Many reviewers compare the game favorably to Gris, noting similarities in art style, atmosphere, and music, and considering it a worthy successor or even an improvement. The game is often seen as a natural evolution of Gris's aesthetic.
- Satisfying Combat Mechanics (weight 0.19): Combat is described as simple but fluid, satisfying, and fun, even if not overly difficult. Reviewers find the combat system engaging and well-implemented.
- Heartwarming Bond with Neva (weight 0.11): The relationship between the protagonist and Neva is highlighted as emotional and heartwarming, with visible progression that fosters a real bond. This interaction adds depth to the overall experience.
- Visual Storytelling Excellence (weight 0.11): The game effectively conveys its story through visual elements, with well-crafted visuals that enhance the narrative. Reviewers appreciate the seamless integration of story and visuals.

Common complaints:
- Inferior to Gris overall (weight 0.38): Many reviewers feel the game falls short of GRIS across visuals, music, story, and emotional impact. They describe it as less original and less resonant than its predecessor.
- Combat is repetitive and monotonous (weight 0.27): Combat is widely criticized as generic, simple, and unsatisfying, often feeling like a repetitive slog. Some players find it tolerable but not enjoyable.
- Gameplay is basic and repetitive (weight 0.19): The gameplay loop is seen as simple, primitive, and repetitive, with a predictable cycle of platforming, puzzles, and combat. It lacks depth and innovation.
- Story lacks depth and impact (weight 0.18): The narrative is described as weak, cheesy, confusing, or lacking substance compared to previous work. Some also note it feels like a rehash of Princess Mononoke.
- Game is too short (weight 0.13): Many reviewers find the game short, often around 4-6 hours, leaving them wanting more. The brevity reduces the overall value.
- Puzzles are less engaging than Gris (weight 0.11): Puzzles are seen as easier, less complex, and sometimes impossible to solve, particularly the flower puzzles. Some jumping and puzzle sections are also frustrating.
- Boss fights frustrating or too easy (weight 0.11): Boss encounters vary from excessively difficult with unreadable attacks to being too easy, especially the final boss. This inconsistency reduces satisfaction.
- Art style less impressive than Gris (weight 0.11): The art style is considered flatter, less refined, and perfunctory compared to GRIS. Some also note harsh color contrast issues that hurt the eyes.
- Controls feel awkward and unresponsive (weight 0.1): Players report that controls are finicky, sluggish, and uncomfortable, especially during combat. This makes the game feel frustrating to play.
- Protagonist feels weak and static (weight 0.1): The main character is perceived as weak and lacking growth throughout the journey. She remains a bystander with no meaningful development.
- Music is unimpressive and forgettable (weight 0.08): The soundtrack is described as plain, lacking climax, and not blending well with the environment or story. It is also considered inferior to GRIS's music.
- Emotional story moments for some (weight 0.07): Despite criticism, some players found the story heartbreaking and sad, particularly the sacrifice of the wolf companion. This emotional impact resonated with a subset of reviewers.
- Game starts slow (weight 0.04): The beginning of the game is perceived as slow, which may affect initial engagement. This pacing issue is noted by some players.

Gameplay feedback:
- Combat is core gameplay (weight 0.54): Many players note that combat against enemies and monsters is a central part of the game. Boss fights are also frequently mentioned as part of the combat experience. Combat is present and integral to the game's design, unlike the developer's previous title Gris.
- Precise platforming challenges (weight 0.37): The game features platforming as a main mechanic, with precise jumping and movement challenges. Platforming sections are well designed and vary across chapters, forming the core of the gameplay alongside combat.
- 2D platformer with combat (weight 0.34): Reviewers consistently describe the game as a 2D side-scrolling platformer that combines platforming with combat elements. It is a narrative-driven platformer with attack mechanics and boss fights.
- Story mode for accessibility (weight 0.24): The game offers a Story mode that disables dying or allows taking damage without consequences, making it accessible to players who prefer to focus on the narrative. An Adventure mode provides a greater challenge with limited lives.
- Wolf cub companion (weight 0.16): Players accompany a wolf cub that grows and gains new abilities, helping in combat. The wolf companion follows the player and can be interacted with, adding a companion mechanic to the game.
- Puzzles and combat mix (weight 0.14): The game includes puzzles as a gameplay element, often combined with combat and platforming. Puzzle solving elements are present and enjoyable.
- Wordless visual narrative (weight 0.11): The story is told without dialogue, using visuals and sound to convey the narrative. This wordless storytelling approach is a distinctive feature praised by players.
- More complex than Gris (weight 0.11): The game is mechanically more complex and challenging than the developer's previous title Gris. It adds more mechanics and features a higher difficulty level compared to Gris.
- Flower collectibles (weight 0.1): Players can collect flowers throughout the game as a collectible item. Flower collectibles are a notable side activity.
- Simple fluid combat system (weight 0.08): Combat is described as simple yet fluid, and sometimes challenging. It provides a fun and accessible experience without being overly complex.
- New mechanics each level (weight 0.08): The game constantly introduces new mechanics over the course of the playthrough, introducing new mechanics each level. Mechanics change and add variety throughout the game.

Performance notes:
- Good Steam Deck Performance (weight 0.05): The game runs well on the Steam Deck, with multiple users reporting it works without issues.
- Smooth on Integrated Graphics (weight 0.03): Users report the game runs smoothly on integrated graphics.
- Smooth Gameplay Experience (weight 0.03): The gameplay is described as very smooth overall.
- Runs Well on Legion Go (weight 0.03): The game runs smoothly on the Legion Go handheld.
- Solid Mac Air M2 Performance (weight 0.03): A user reported 55-60 FPS even during combat on a MacBook Air M2 (2022).
- No Bugs Encountered (weight 0.03): At least one user reported encountering no bugs during play.

Recommendations:
- Essential for GRIS Fans (weight 0.29): Many reviewers strongly recommend this game for anyone who enjoyed GRIS, calling it practically obligatory for fans. The shared artistic and emotional style makes it a natural follow-up.
- Highly Recommended Overall (weight 0.25): A strong consensus of reviewers highly recommend the game. It is frequently called a must-try and a standout title.
- Worth Buying and Playing (weight 0.19): Players widely agree the game is worth playing and definitely recommend it. It is described as a great experience that justifies the time invested.
- Great Price-to-Value Ratio (weight 0.12): The game is considered well worth its price, including at full price. Reviewers frequently note it offers excellent value for money.
- DLC Adds Worthwhile Value (weight 0.1): The DLC is generally recommended for those who enjoyed the main game and is considered worth its price. Some note it is not essential but still a good addition.
- Appeals to Art and Emotion (weight 0.1): The game is particularly recommended for players who value artistic expression and emotional experiences. It resonates with those who see games as art.
- Buy on Sale If Possible (weight 0.1): Several reviewers advise waiting for a discount rather than paying full price. The experience is still worthwhile when purchased on sale.
- Accessible to Platforming Newcomers (weight 0.05): Reviewers note the game is approachable for people with little experience in 2D platformers. It serves as a good entry point to the genre.
- A Game You Should Not Miss (weight 0.05): Reviewers urge players not to let this title pass by, especially those seeking a simple yet incredible experience. It is described as a memorable journey.
- Best Played Calmly and Unhurriedly (weight 0.05): Players recommend taking your time to appreciate the environment, soundtrack, and overall experience without rushing. A relaxed pace enhances enjoyment.
- Not Universally Appealing (weight 0.05): Some reviewers caution that the game is not for everyone. Its niche appeal may not suit all tastes.
- Ideal for Relaxation and Destressing (weight 0.05): The game is recommended for those looking to unwind and disconnect from stress. Its calming nature provides a soothing experience.
- Strong Recommendation for Pet Owners (weight 0.04): Opinions are split on suitability for pet owners, with some recommending it and others cautioning dog owners specifically. The emotional content may resonate differently depending on personal circumstances.

Other player notes:
- Frequent comparisons to GRIS (weight 0.92): Neva is constantly compared to its predecessor GRIS, with reviewers discussing similarities and differences in art style, story, and overall experience. These comparisons form a major part of the feedback.
- Sequel from GRIS developers (weight 0.43): Many reviewers note that Neva is the second game from Nomada Studio, the creators of GRIS, and serves as a spiritual successor. They consistently identify it as a follow-up or sequel to GRIS.
- Art and visuals praised (weight 0.39): Reviewers frequently commend the game's art style, visuals, and soundtrack, often drawing parallels to GRIS's aesthetic. The artistic quality is a standout feature.
- Short game length (weight 0.32): Numerous reviews mention that the main game can be completed in about 4-6 hours. This short duration is a common point of discussion.
- Darker tone than GRIS (weight 0.29): Some reviewers note that Neva has a darker tone compared to GRIS, which affects the overall mood and narrative.
- Emotional and metaphorical storytelling (weight 0.22): Similar to GRIS, Neva conveys emotions and themes through metaphor and minimal dialogue. This approach resonates with many players.
- Mixed opinions on superiority (weight 0.2): Opinions are divided on whether Neva surpasses GRIS; some find it better, others prefer GRIS. This reflects diverse player preferences.
- Combat differentiates from GRIS (weight 0.17): A notable difference from GRIS is the addition of combat and action elements. Reviewers often highlight this as a distinct feature, though opinions on its quality vary.
- Less abstract than GRIS (weight 0.12): The game is described as having a more concrete story and less abstraction than GRIS, which some see as a positive evolution.
- DLC available and short (weight 0.12): Some reviewers mention that DLC exists or is planned, and that it is quite short, taking around an hour to complete.
- Inspired by Ghibli films (weight 0.11): The game's story and setting are noted to borrow elements from Studio Ghibli films like Princess Mononoke and Spirited Away, adding a recognizable influence.
- Playable on Steam Deck (weight 0.07): Reviewers confirm the game is playable on Steam Deck and PC, with some sharing experiences specifically from the Steam Deck.

Emotions:
- Admiration (weight 0.1): Reviewers are captivated by the game's exceptional art direction, describing it as a visual masterpiece with rich, hand-painted scenes and cohesive aesthetic. The stunning soundtrack and moving, wordless storytelling further elevate the experience, with many praising the integration of art into gameplay and narrative.
- Disappointment (weight 0.09): Many reviewers feel the game falls short of the high bar set by its predecessor, GRIS, citing weaker art style, less memorable music, and a shallow, repetitive combat system. The short length, unsatisfying ending, and lack of narrative depth contribute to a sense of unmet expectations.
- Frustration (weight 0.08): Players frequently cite clunky controls, poor hitboxes, and unfair difficulty spikes, especially during combat and precision platforming sections. Slow movement, tedious backtracking after death, and inconsistent mechanics make the experience feel punishing rather than challenging.
- Sadness (weight 0.06): The emotional story, particularly the death of the wolf companion Neva and the cyclical themes of loss, profoundly affected players, often bringing them to tears. The touching narrative and melancholic tone linger long after the game ends.
- Love (weight 0.06): Reviewers express deep affection for the game's beautiful art, music, and emotional story, often describing it as a masterpiece. The bond with the wolf companion Neva and the game's tender atmosphere are frequently highlighted as reasons for their love.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.05): Players find the game enjoyable from start to finish, praising the fluid platforming, engaging combat, and beautiful visuals. The alternation between exploration and action, along with fun boss fights, keeps the experience entertaining.
- Appreciation (weight 0.05): Reviewers appreciate the game's artistic quality, attention to detail, and emotional storytelling. The beautiful visuals, music, and thoughtful design, including forgiving story mode, make it a refined and pleasant experience.
- Joy (weight 0.04): The ability to pet the dog Neva, the beautiful art and music, and the emotional journey bring players great joy. The game's charming presentation and fun combat contribute to a delightful experience.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.04): Players feel satisfied by the well-tuned difficulty, smooth combat, and satisfying platforming. The game offers a balanced challenge with beautiful art and music, making the overall experience rewarding.
- Emotional (weight 0.03): The wordless story and the bond between Alba and Neva evoke strong emotions, often moving players to tears. The beautiful soundtrack and touching narrative create a deeply emotional experience.
- Moved (weight 0.03): The heartwarming and heart-wrenching story, particularly the relationship between Alba and Neva, deeply moves players. The subtle storytelling and emotional ending leave a lasting impact, often bringing tears.
- Awe (weight 0.03): The stunning visuals, lighting, and art direction leave players in awe. The beautiful soundtrack and cohesive world design create a breathtaking experience that feels like a moving painting.
- Confusion (weight 0.02): Some players find the story confusing, particularly the cyclical narrative and unclear villain motivations. The ending and reverse chronological order can be hard to follow, leading to a sense of bewilderment.
- Annoyance (weight 0.02): Reviewers are annoyed by the overly precise platforming for collectibles, backtracking, and frustrating boss fights. The slow start and lack of engaging puzzles compared to GRIS also contribute to irritation.
- Delight (weight 0.01): The game's beautiful aesthetics, ability to pet Neva, and charming interactions bring delight. The memorable soundtrack and emotional art make it a joyful experience.
- Relaxation (weight 0.01): The game's calming atmosphere, beautiful views, and smooth gameplay provide a relaxing experience. The simple but engaging puzzles and excellent soundtrack help players unwind.
- Heartbreak (weight 0.01): The emotional story and ending, particularly Neva's sacrifice, are heartbreaking for players. The touching narrative and poignant moments leave a deep emotional ache.
- Immersion (weight 0.01): The game's beautiful story, art, and sound design fully immerse players in its world. The use of color, music, and mechanics involving Neva deepens attachment and engagement.
- Surprise (weight 0.01): Players are surprised by the game's action-packed combat and challenging boss fights, which contrast with the calm atmosphere of GRIS. The narrative cycle and new enemy types also catch them off guard.
- Warmth (weight 0.01): The heartwarming story of Neva's growth and the human-wolf companionship brings warmth to players' hearts. The healing visuals and touching interactions create a cozy, comforting feeling.}