UNDERGROUNDED stands out as a puzzle adventure game on PC, blending exploration with clever challenges set in a bizarre underground world inspired by American history. You follow Scott, a heartbroken guy from Manhattan, on his quest to recover a lost engagement ring that tumbles into a storm drain and keeps descending into unexpected realms. This setup leads to encounters with themes from different eras, like old movie theaters, the Wild West, and even space race elements, all twisted into a dungeon crawler format.
Gameplay
In UNDERGROUNDED, you navigate a series of interconnected levels that represent slices of America's cultural past. Scott moves through these areas, solving puzzles that require observation and logic. A key companion is a chatty canary that provides hints when you're stuck, making tougher sections more approachable without spoiling the satisfaction of figuring things out.
Along the way, Scott encounters other characters who have lost items in the dungeon. Assisting them ties into the main progression, as their stories influence Scott's journey and personal growth. Combat comes in the form of boss fights, where Scott discovers retro arcade cabinets. Playing these games alters the environment or grants abilities to overcome the bosses, adding a layer of nostalgic action to the adventure.
Controls are straightforward, with keyboard options like X to confirm actions and V to call the canary, or controller mappings for PlayStation and Xbox setups. Items play a role too, switched via Q and E on keyboard or shoulder buttons on controllers, keeping the focus on exploration and problem-solving rather than complex inputs.
Game Modes
UNDERGROUNDED centers on a single-player campaign that unfolds through Scott's story. There are no multiplayer components or separate competitive modes; instead, the experience revolves around progressing through the narrative-driven dungeon at your own pace.
This structure emphasizes replay value through different puzzle solutions and interactions with side characters, encouraging multiple playthroughs to uncover all the historical nods and hidden details in the levels.
Story and Setting
The narrative kicks off with Scott's failed proposal, leading to the ring's plunge into an underground labyrinth where forgotten pieces of American history persist. Levels shift from sewer systems to themed zones like a golden age cinema or an Old West town, each packed with era-specific puzzles and enemies.
These environments aren't just backdrops; they integrate mechanics tied to their themes, such as using film reels to manipulate light in a theater level or dealing with cowboy outlaws in a saloon setting. The canary companion adds personality, offering commentary that ties into the historical context and Scott's emotional state.
Is It Worth Playing?
If you enjoy puzzle adventures with a mix of storytelling and light action, UNDERGROUNDED fits well for players seeking a relaxed yet engaging experience. The integration of retro games for boss defeats appeals to those fond of 1980s arcade styles, while the hint system from the canary makes it accessible for newcomers to the genre.
For fans of narrative-driven games that explore personal themes like loss and recovery, the interactions with other lost souls add depth. However, if you prefer fast-paced combat or multiplayer elements, this might not hold your attention as strongly. Overall, it's a solid choice for solo play sessions focused on exploration and clever challenges.
