SOMA

The main pros of the game

• Compelling Story: Many users praised the game for its captivating and thought-provoking narrative, often considering it one of the best sci-fi stories in any medium. The themes of identity, existence, and morality resonate deeply with players.
• Atmosphere and Immersion: The game creates a haunting and immersive atmosphere that enhances the overall experience, making players feel uneasy and engaged throughout.
• Philosophical Depth: SOMA challenges players to confront existential questions, leading to a unique experience that lingers long after gameplay. The moral dilemmas presented are impactful and thought-provoking.
• Unique Horror Elements: The horror is derived more from psychological and existential themes rather than traditional jump scares, which many players found refreshing.
• Visual and Audio Design: The graphics and sound design received praise for contributing to the eerie ambiance, despite the game's age.

The main cons of the game

• Gameplay Mechanics: Some players found the gameplay to be simplistic or linear, likening it to a walking simulator. The stealth mechanics and enemy encounters were often criticized as being more annoying than challenging.
• Level Design Issues: Several reviews mentioned frustrating level design, particularly in sections that required searching in the dark with little guidance, which disrupted the narrative flow.
• Predictability: A few players noted that certain plot points and themes were predictable or reminiscent of other works, which detracted from the overall experience.
• Short Length: Some users felt the game was too short for the price, suggesting it could be more enjoyable if priced lower.

The features or elements that are missing from the game according to users

• More Engaging Gameplay: Players expressed a desire for more interactive gameplay elements, such as combat or more varied puzzles, rather than relying heavily on stealth and exploration.
• Enemy Variety and AI: Some reviews indicated that the enemy design and AI felt dated, with predictable behaviors that reduced the tension during encounters.
• Replay Value: Many users felt that the game lacked significant replayability beyond moral choices that didn't impact the story, leading to a desire for more branching narratives or alternate endings.
• Guidance and Clarity: Some players wished for clearer direction in certain sections to avoid frustration during exploration and puzzle-solving.

Summary

• Overall, SOMA is highly regarded for its narrative depth and atmospheric design, though it faces criticism for gameplay mechanics and level design.

Summary generated on: October 8, 2025