Neva Review: A Beautiful and Emotional Action-Adventure, Following Up From Gris

Neva, Nomada Studio’s stunning follow-up to Gris, delivers an emotional journey that transcends its fairy-tale-like setting. Set in a world of vibrant watercolour landscapes slowly overtaken by creeping darkness, the game places players in the shoes of Alba, a warrior bound to the young wolf Neva, after the tragic loss of its mother. This bond forms the story’s heart as the two struggle against the consuming shadows.

We are humbled by the incredible reception of NEVA. After almost 4 years of development, this makes us feel deeply emotional.

Thank you all, and we hope to see you join Alba and Neva on their adventure tomorrow 🤍 pic.twitter.com/cQaU1e0nw4

— Nomada Studio – NEVA & GRIS (@nomadastudiobcn) October 14, 2024

As a minor spoiler, the early scenes hit hard, and it’s clear that the game’s visual storytelling is its most striking feature. For context, the Lush forests and sun-drenched valleys contrast with the inky-black decay threatening to envelop the world. For example, the darkness transforms animals into monstrous beings, covering the land in skeletal vines and spiky brambles, acting as a visual metaphor for grief and loss — central themes of the narrative.

In addition, the quiet, wordless storytelling draws inspiration from Gris, as does its ability to evoke intense emotions without relying on dialogue. Alba’s occasional call to Neva, her voice tinged with urgency or affection, is the only spoken word in the game, yet it speaks volumes.

Neva Narrative: Subtle and Emotional

Without spoiling anything, the game explores themes of loss, love, and the responsibilities of nurturing and protecting another being. It’s a story about overcoming darkness and the emotional journey of parenthood, mentorship, and companionship. The story conveys itself through vignettes and environmental storytelling, with no need for words.

The narrative unfolds across four seasons, representing the stages of Neva’s growth and their shared struggles. The game’s quiet moments are among its most impactful, particularly during stretches when the only action is moving forward — a metaphor for the grieving process. These moments, where you only guide Alba and Neva across a fading landscape, give players space to reflect on their journey.

The game’s final chapters are intensely emotional, and yes, it will make you cry. It delivers an inevitable, heart-wrenching conclusion that left me in tears, thinking not only about Alba and Neva’s journey but our own experience with loss and moving forward.

Neva Gameplay: Intuitive and Emotionally Rich

At first glance, the game feels like a traditional platformer with light combat, but the game evolves as Neva grows. Starting as a curious, easily distracted pup, Neva eventually becomes a formidable partner, assisting Alba in combat and complex platforming sections. This progression is a metaphor for the bond between Alba and Neva, reflecting how their relationship strengthens over time.

Alba remains constant, with her fluid movements and swordplay evolving slightly over the game’s short runtime. Neva, however, is the character who grows the most. Her abilities change, and by the end of the game, she’s fighting alongside Alba, taking on enemies and overcoming more challenging platforming puzzles. This growth mirrors the player’s emotional investment in the relationship — by the game’s conclusion, it feels like the two are fighting as one.

Combat in the game is minimal and designed to complement the narrative. The system encourages players to stay on the offensive, with health regenerating only through landing hits. It’s simple yet purposeful, highlighting Alba and Neva’s bond rather than adding unnecessary challenges. For those who might find combat too challenging, the game offers a story mode that eliminates damage.

While combat isn’t the game’s central focus, it feels impactful because of its role in the narrative. The real tension comes from the stakes of protecting Neva, watching the cub grow from a vulnerable pup into a fierce companion. Every battle reinforces the player’s desire to protect her.

Neva Is a Game of Emotion and Art

Emotionally, Neva hits hard. Players who have dealt with personal loss or those with strong connections to pets or loved ones will feel a deep resonance with the game. The evolving relationship between Alba and Neva mirrors the experience of nurturing, guiding, and eventually letting go. The final moments are particularly poignant, eliciting the kind of emotional response rare in most games.

Clocking in at around six hours, the game never overstays its welcome, offering just the right balance of challenge, storytelling, and introspection. It is a journey of loss, growth, and unbreakable bonds — wrapped in a breathtaking audiovisual package. Though the game may not satisfy players seeking a Soulslike difficulty, it shines in its intent to make players feel deeply, and in that respect, it succeeds brilliantly.

In conclusion, Neva is a near-perfect blend of art, story, and gameplay. It tells a profound tale of love, loss, and resilience while offering an engaging gameplay experience that builds on its predecessor’s strengths. The game is a must-play for anyone seeking a heartwarming emotional narrative with satisfying platforming and combat. Nomada Studio has once again proven its ability to create games that touch the soul, and Neva stands as a testament to the power of interactive storytelling.

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