Neva tells a poignant tale of parental bonds between humans and beasts through the relationship of Alba and her wolf companion, Neva. Building on the emotional depth found in Nomada Studio’s previous game, Gris, this narrative explores the theme of parenthood as the two navigate a world plagued by a blight.
The game opens with Neva, a cub full of curiosity, eventually growing into a formidable protector alongside Alba. As they journey through this coming-of-age story, the bond between them strengthens as they face adversities and uncover new abilities across different seasons.
One of the standout features of Neva is its unique voice acting, with an impressive performance that only utilizes a single word throughout the entire five-hour experience. Unlike games rich in dialogue such as Final Fantasy VII Rebirth, Neva conveys profound emotion through Alba’s calls to Neva, allowing her voice to reflect her feelings in various situations.
The control scheme is straightforward, adhering to typical action-platformer mechanics with an added button specifically for calling Neva. This mechanic is not only useful for gameplay but adds an emotional layer as Alba scratches behind Neva’s ears when summoned. The tonal shifts in Alba’s voice—calm and light during tranquil moments, urgent and panicked when danger looms—evoke a strong connection with the player, heightening the emotional stakes.
One particularly impactful scene involves Alba searching for Neva after they are separated, calling out in sheer terror. This encapsulates the fear and uncertainty of losing a loved one, drawing players into the character’s anxiety. Players are encouraged to press the call button frequently, creating a natural instinct to reconnect as Alba navigates the perilous environment.
Neva’s ability to resonate with real-life experiences of care and concern enhances its narrative. The game transforms the simplistic idea of calling out to a companion into a meaningful interaction that expresses the highs and lows of parenthood. Cristina Peña’s voice work elevates the experience, showcasing how a single word can convey complex emotional layers.
Ultimately, Neva serves as a profound exploration of the caregiver’s journey, the depths of love, and the terror of potential loss, all executed with masterful restraint and creativity within the realm of video game storytelling.
