Independent Irish studio Howling Hamster Entertainment has officially pulled back the curtain on its latest project: Sub-Species, a 2.5D multidirectional action-adventure shooter. Set in the crushing depths of Earth’s oceans following a catastrophic alien outbreak, the title promises a claustrophobic blend of retro arcade precision and modern cinematic horror.
360-Degree Survival in the Abyss
In Sub-Species, players command a heavily armed submarine capable of full 360° rotation. This maneuverability is essential for surviving the "contaminated zones" that lie miles beneath the surface. As you descend into the darkness, you will face relentless swarms of hostile alien life, navigate the skeletal remains of collapsed naval structures, and scavenge for lost technology.
"The deep ocean is the closest thing we have to an alien world on Earth," says Creative Director Manus Burke. "We wanted players to feel that tension—the beauty that pulls you in, and the fear that reminds you you’re not supposed to be there."
A Retro-Inspired, Modern Challenge
The game draws a unique line between the past and present, citing influences as diverse as the Sega classic Sub-Terrania, the eerie atmosphere of Ecco the Dolphin, and the sci-fi tension of James Cameron’s The Abyss. Beyond simple combat, Sub-Species integrates navigation puzzles and resource management, forcing players to defuse unstable reactors and rescue trapped submersibles while under fire.
Key features of the experience include:
Fluid 360° Combat: Responsive controls designed to handle threats from all angles.
Strategic Arsenal: Players must utilize flares, mines, and dodge bursts to survive.
Handcrafted Environments: Missions span from derelict naval ruins to bioluminescent alien caverns.
Dual Modes: A narrative-driven single-player campaign and a competitive local versus mode.
Coming Soon to Steam
Currently in development for PC via Steam, Sub-Species is already generating buzz for its handcrafted aesthetic and high-pressure gameplay. While a final release date is yet to be confirmed, the studio has announced that a playable demo will be launching on Steam in the near future.
