As I run across a lush green landscape in Neva, I'm stopped by black, spindly, twig-like arms with spiky hands that suddenly jut out from the earth. As protagonist Alba, I slash at them with my sword as they try to claw at me, clearing the path for my steadfast white wolf companion (and the game's namesake) Neva, who runs on ahead. Once the decaying arms are gone, I follow my four-legged friend's lead, only for my heart to drop when I see the pup has been caught by more of those strange arms, straining to break free from their clutches. A sense of urgency overwhelms me, and I frantically cut down all that lies in my path.
Now free, Neva lands safely back on the ground, but is obviously shaken by the experience and cowers. Without a moment's hesitation, I run up to hug the wolf, offering reassurance that it's safe to continue. At this point, it's still very early on in the adventure, but I already care about my little wolf sidekick so much, which speaks volumes about how effectively developer Nomada Studio draws you into the journey of this duo and their ever-growing bond.
Neva is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful games I've played this year, not just in a visual sense, but also in the tale it tells.
