Gamers eager for a fresh take on the city-building genre can now immerse themselves in the world of Life Below, as a playable demo has been released on Steam today. This timely demo arrives just ahead of its inclusion in both World Ocean Day (June 8th) and the highly anticipated Steam Next Fest (starting June 9th), offering players a sneak peek at this innovative sub-aquatic experience.
Announced just last week, the Life Below demo allows players to begin constructing their own underwater haven, attracting diverse new species amidst the ominous and rapidly changing ocean environment.
Developed by Norwegian studio Megapop and penned by award-winning video game writer Rhianna Pratchett, Life Below promises a truly unique approach to the city-building formula. Set on a near-future Earth where the ocean has been profoundly altered, players must adapt to new, fast-evolving rules. The game aims to immerse players in a visually stunning world, where they will grow vibrant reefs, increase biodiversity by attracting marine wildlife, and evolve entire underwater ecosystems. All of this unfolds as they face a tide of ever-changing challenges posed by a climate-impacted ocean.
Beyond its compelling premise, Life Below is also striving to be one of the most accessible city builders ever made. The development team is collaborating with consultant Arevya, and the charity SpecialEffect is actively involved in evaluating and advising on impactful accessibility features for the game's implementation. This commitment highlights a dedication to ensuring a broad range of players can enjoy the experience.
The playable demo for Life Below is available now on Steam. The full game is slated for release on Windows PC in 2026. Players can wishlist the game on Steam or visit LifeBelow.net for more detailed information.
