Explore the depths of the ocean in subspecies
Independent studio Howling Hamster Entertainment has unveiled Sub-Species, a new multi-directional 2.5D shooter set deep beneath Earth's oceans after a cataclysmic alien invasion. In addition to the announcement, the debut trailer introduces players to an immersive deep-sea world inspired by retro arcade games and modern sci-fi storytelling.
In Sub-Species, players command a heavily armed submarine that can rotate 360 ​​degrees. Each mission moves deeper into contaminated underwater zones, where hostile life forms, destroyed objects and strange alien technology dominate the landscape. Survival depends on constant movement, careful positioning, and wise use of limited resources.
Research plays an important role throughout the campaign. Players navigate cramped caves, disable unstable reactors, and find the remains of failed expeditions lost in the depths. The game combines combat, navigation challenges and environmental hazards. This creates a constant feeling of pressure as danger can come from any direction at any time.
Creative director Manus Burke describes the deep ocean as the closest thing to an alien world on Earth. The team sought to convey both its strange beauty and overwhelming sense of danger, drawing players in and constantly reminding them that they don't belong here.
Inspired by classics such as Sub Terrania, Ecco the Dolphin, The Abyss and The Blue Planet, Sub-Species combines retro precision with a cinematic underwater atmosphere. Each area feels mechanical, alien and unpredictable, reflecting a world crumbling under an unseen invasion.
Sub-Species is currently in development for PC via Steam, with a playable demo planned to launch on the platform soon.
