Neva

Summary

Neva is an adventure-platformer game developed by Nomada Studio and published by Devolver Digital in 2024. It was released for all eighth- and ninth-generation consoles.The game’s story follows the life of a dog named Neva and its owner as they flee from a dark and malevolent force. The characterization of the main protagonist is weak, as there is no clear backstory or even a defined name for the character. The game features minimal dialogue, relying instead on vocal calls, which change depending on the situation. On the other hand, Neva’s characterization is well-developed and effectively conveyed throughout the game.Although Neva’s past remains a mystery, the game’s gameplay duration is around two hours. It follows a linear structure without extra stages, preventing repetitive tasks from making the experience tiresome. The gameplay design and artistic environment are exceptional, offering moments of serenity, enjoyment, and even fear. However, the absence of side quests is noticeable, especially given the short playtime.The game features engaging combat against diverse and visually striking enemies, but the combat animations are limited to three combos, which is a notable drawback. However, the presence of various abilities prevents the fights from feeling repetitive.Neva is priced at $11, which, considering its short length, makes it a questionable value, as there are better alternatives at the same price point. However, it’s worth playing at least once or twice, especially if it receives a good discount.I would give Neva a meta score of 73. Overall, it’s a solid choice for players looking for a short yet immersive adventure with a decent story, stunning environments, and action-packed gameplay—though it’s best to wait for a discount before purchasing.