Nomada Studio returns with Neva, a heartbreaking, emotional and contemplative adventure, whose visuals and sound make it one of the best experiences of the year. A beautiful experience to behold, that entertains from beginning to end without being too long, and that without much effort, manages to leave a mark in the heart.

Neva is undoubtedly the most ravishing game we have played in a few years. The game sets a benchmark for all platformer games and sends a message that a story that can steal your heart and the visuals that you can’t look away from are enough for a perfect platformer game. Neva is our favourite game we have played this year.

Neva es una poesía hecha videojuego. Es una fantasía literaria sobre el lienzo de un videojuego, llena de perfectas estrofas cargadas de sentimientos y escritas con el corazón en la mano. Es la exploración de la maternidad, el crecimiento, acompañamiento y el recorrido para salir del duelo. Es un título precioso, que nadie puede perderse.

Normally, a super-short game with minimalist mechanics would make me say something along the lines of "Neva is great, but it won't be for everyone." But I truly think that everyone should play Neva at some point; it's hard to imagine someone not feeling profound emotion from this trim but unforgettable release, which now sits comfortably on the short list of video games that have brought tears to my eyes. If it has captured your attention in any way, then it's safe to say that it's worth your time. It's certainly worth far more than the $20 Devolver Digital and Nomada Studios are asking for it.

Neva is one of the most beautiful games I’ve ever played, from the watercolour art style to the clever direction. But it surprised me in its mechanical complexity and combat execution; you always need to keep your fingers fast and mind faster. Add a lifelong vulpine companion to the mix, and you’ve got an all-timer on your hands.

Neva is a game you won’t soon forget. With stunning visuals, gorgeous art, and an incredibly emotional story, this new classic continues Nomada Studio’s solid reputation and is a must-play in this reviewer’s book.

Neva is a fascinating artistic experience. Its short duration also allows you to find some time to enjoy this experience, at a time when it is becoming increasingly difficult to devote ourselves to our hobbies.

Colonna sonora, direzione artistica, espressività visiva e comunicativa assolute. Gameplay semplice ma dalle fasi qualitativamente ricercate e stimolanti. Variabili di gameplay e novità costanti nei giusti momenti, così come il continuo e inaspettato stupore dietro ogni angolo. Potente e intenso, molto più di un videogioco: una vera forma d'arte giocabile. Praticamente nessun difetto, curato nei particolari ed emozionante come pochi altri.

To me, Neva transcends the boundaries of what we typically define as a game. It feels more like an emotional experience, an interactive journey that stirs the imagination much like a piece of fine art.

Neva is a striking example of artistry in video games. It tells a touching story within a world filled with corruption and wonder. Neva is a deliberately and beautifully profound game in every way.

“Neva” looks and sounds phenomenal. It also has an emotional story that manages without any dialog at all. The gameplay is not revolutionary, but the protagonists control flawlessly. Despite the limited moveset, the game manages to avoid becoming repetitive throughout. The developers at Nomada Studio achieve this through clever changes to the game world and increasingly intelligent enemies. The fact that the game is relatively short also helps. It is just the right length. The developers have improved and expanded the already sensational principle of their first game, “Gris”, in key areas. In short: “Neva” is a must-play.

Tatsächlich habe ich überlegt, ob Neva nicht hätte mehr sein müssen, um dem Motto „Gris mit Action“ gerecht zu werden. Ein großes Metroidvania ist es schließlich nicht, obwohl es das von der Anlage und den Mechaniken her sein könnte. Ein solches Spiel schwebte Conrad Roset aber, wie es scheint, nun mal nicht vor. Roset will eine Geschichte erzählen, die ebenso universell wie anrührend ist, und das gelingt ihm mit einer Bravour, die ihresgleichen sucht! In Neva steckt sowohl in spielerischer als auch in visueller Hinsicht ein so kreativer Einfallsreichtum, wie man ihn selten zu Gesicht bekommt. Und den ich deshalb nur mit vollem Nachdruck empfehlen kann.

«Neva» sieht und hört sich phänomenal an. Dazu gesellt sich eine emotionale Geschichte, die auch ganz ohne Dialoge auskommt. Das Gameplay ist nicht revolutionär, aber die Charaktere steuern sich einwandfrei.

Com uma gameplay interessantíssima, visuais espetaculares e uma história simplista e emocionante, o game já se tornou, para mim, um dos grandes jogos do ano.

Lo que más me gusta es poder ver a un estudio independiente, como Nomada Studio, arriesgarse de esta manera, presentando una propuesta diferente y demostrando que hay espacio para otras cosas. Lo hicieron la primera vez con Gris, lo vuelven a lograr de manera magistral con Neva y espero que nos vuelvan a sorprender en el futuro.

Definitivamente, NEVA es un título que tenéis que jugar. No importa si no sois muy de juegos plataformeros o de combates ligeros. Da absolutamente igual. NEVA se quedará viviendo en vuestro corazón eternamente y, estamos convencidos, cada vez que lo recordéis esbozaréis una dulce sonrisa porque, en el fondo, todo habrá merecido la pena.

Neva en Steam Deck se ejecuta de manera excelente. Con la configuración adecuada, es posible disfrutar de una experiencia de juego ideal. Lo recomiendo para todos aquellos jugadores que buscan disfrutar de esta experiencia en cualquier lugar gracias a la consola portátil.

Alba and Neva's journey was the most captivating I've experienced since the boy and Trico in 2016's The Last Guardian. When necessary, the game transitions seamlessly between simple, epic and moving tones. Combat is responsive and challenging in the right measure. It maintains strong and reflective themes such as perseverance, family and the Cycle of Life. And what was most praised in its previous project is once again present with more variety of music, colors and impeccable animation fluidity. An excellent game for fans of the genre.

Neva innova y sorprende. No se conforma con ser un juego de plataformeo y acción sino que pone sobre la mesa un apartado artístico, historia y banda sonora que no olvidaremos. Imprescindible independientemente de tu género favorito. Un must have de 2024.

NEVA nunca se siente repetitivo o aburrido, al revés, sabe hacer giros inesperados para mantenerte atento a cualquier detalle de su historia. Conforme avanzas, también avanza tu vínculo con Neva, aparecen otras habilidades y construyes un viaje lleno de esperanza en un mundo repleto de caos. Los combates son toda una novedad, aunque no es lo más importante, lo que a veces puede parecerte algo demasiado simple o confuso.

Nomada Studio’s second game is utterly stunning and a pleasure to play as well.

Neva is a stunning game that tackles the themes of parenthood and climate change perfectly. With an immersive soundtrack, beautiful art, and an emotional journey, it's a challenging platforming-adventure that fans new and old will love.

Neva is a lush and responsive 2D action platformer that delivers an enthralling world and unforgettable emotional experience.

Neva, el nuevo juego de Nomada Studio, estudio detrás del aclamado GRIS, vuelve a superarse con una bella, emotiva y reveladora historia sobre la paternidad, el crecimiento, el amor y la vida misma, todo ello con una narrativa que nos presenta la relación entre Alba y la loba Neva en un entorno hóstil, y como deberán cuidar la una de la otra, y crecer juntas. Todo esto se complementa con una jugabilidad que combina acción, plataformas y pequeños puzles que encajan perfectamente y forman un todo definitivamente sobresaliente. Si os gustó GRIS, Neva es indispensable, ya que supera netamente a este, y si no lo habéis probado, id directos a por los dos.

Desta forma, Neva acaba se estendendo mais do que precisava. Os momentos de apreciar a beleza de suas paisagens se alternam muito rapidamente com momentos de tentativa e erro, de luta e derrota, o que acaba prejudicando o seu ritmo.

In conclusion, Neva offers a remarkably enjoyable journey with unique challenges, immersing you in its fantasy world and story, evoking a range of emotions from start to finish without feeling repetitive or out of sync.

Building on the strong foundation the developers laid with Gris, Neva once again impresses with an emotionally charged story, beautiful visual presentation, and a captivating soundtrack. The game combines challenging platforming with simple yet satisfying puzzles and combat, all centered around the partnership between Alba and her growing wolf. While the pace could have been a little quicker for some players, the breathtaking art style makes every moment feel like a living painting. The few drawbacks, such as the repetitive death sounds and occasionally frustrating save points, do little to detract from the overall picture. Neva is a beautifully crafted game that not only challenges your skill as a player, but also touches your emotions. It is an interactive art experience that shows how powerful the medium can be, both in terms of gameplay and storytelling.

Art installation pretending to be an action platformer. And a very successful one at that.

An immersive atmosphere and narrative and a unique and impeccable graphic and sound design

The themes here are painted with a broad brush, but their refusal to get down to specifics doesn’t mean that they don’t still ring true. The game bittersweetly fixates on parenthood, as you watch Neva herself grow and outpace Alba as the seasons pass, and on the destruction of the natural world, which in turn makes it more hostile and violent. And then there’s the connective thread between the two—that even when it feels like everything is falling apart, because sometimes it literally is, the only thing you can do is keep moving.

It must be a challenge to thread inspiration’s needle in a game like this one. Critics and players might point to Neva’s most obvious references as thematic shortcuts, but the game’s personality and careful sense of craft always shined through. I’m tempted to compare Neva to Playdead’s influential duology of Limbo and Inside, even though the tonal qualities remain quite different, primarily for the impeccable quality of its design and richness of its world, dialogue-free as it may be. It's a brief experience overall, but most players should feel compelled to happily join Alba and Neva in starting the seasonal cycle anew, their screenshot key on a hair trigger.

Neva is a game that'll speak to any pet owner and touch their soul. The story between Alba and Neva is simple, but it is a tale packed with emotion that will make anyone tear up. It also boasts some of this year's best visuals with its watercolor background and vibrant colors. The gameplay and puzzles might be lacking for some, but it does the job.

Neva, as a symbol of life itself, mirrors the inevitability of change, making the journey feel like a personal allegory for parenthood and the passage of time. In many ways, Neva ends just as it begins, with a poignant reflection on the cycle of life. Although the experience is brief–credits roll after about 5-6 hours–the impact of Neva lingers long after, making it a great choice for those looking to get emotionally gut-punched by a visually stunning and mechanically concise platforming adventure game.

Neva is a profoundly moving, interactive work of art. It’s as pleasing to the eye as it is the ear, and the effort this still young studio has gone to in developing upon ideas cemented in their first game, Gris, is commendable. Without eclipsing it, Neva matches the stirring catharsis of Gris with another flash of brilliance.

Gli amanti dei puzzle-platformer e dell’arte in generale non possono farsi sfuggire questo piccolo capolavoro che è Neva. Peccato solo, ancora una volta, per la breve durata.

Every frame of Neva looks like a painting, there’s a surprising amount of challenge and the way it builds these characters without saying a word is masterful.

Neva is a fantastic and emotional journey the whole way through. The bond between Alba and Neva feels real and earned, so the stakes feel even higher when danger befalls them. It’s a game that makes us think about the hardships of life and survival, but at its core drives home one main theme: hope. Neva will have you running through a whole gambit of emotions in its four hour run time, so have some tissues handy, but it’s an experience well-worth your time.

Neva is love, Neva is life, and also a fun-if-brief visual splendour to boot.

Neva, el nou joc de Nomada Studio, segueix les passes de Gris amb un estil artístic increïble i una narrativa profunda. Acompanyarem Alba i Neva en un viatge per un món que es descompon mentre el seu vincle es fa més fort. La jugabilitat combina plataformes i combat amb una progressió constant d’habilitats i desafiaments. Neva ofereix una experiència que toca el cor, destacant la connexió entre els personatges i el seu entorn. Un digne successor de Gris.

Neva presents itself as a title that manages to skilfully balance narrative and gameplay mechanics, where its strength lies in its ability to combine an excellent artistic compartment, which reflects the emotions of the protagonists in every detail, with gameplay that evolves along with the relationship between Alba and the wolf. Neva is an experience recommended not only to platformer and action-adventure lovers, but to anyone looking for a game capable of offering a strong narrative, supported by smooth gameplay. An adventure that touches deep chords and deserves to be experienced from start to finish.

Quatre heures. C'est le temps qu'il faut à Neva pour nous montrer toute sa qualité visuelle et sonore. Dans la pure lignée de Gris, le nouveau jeu de Nomada Studio lui est supérieur avec une richesse graphique et de couleurs plus poussée, une intrigue moins vague et des enjeux plus forts. Une oeuvre de composition graphique exceptionnelle qui fait totalement oublier les ridicules défauts du jeu : une exploration encore trop simple et des combats qui manquent parfois de lisibilité.

Almost six years after Gris, Nomada Studio delivers another emotional masterpiece with Neva that tugs at your heartstrings while offering a smorgasbord of vibrant sights and sounds.

Neva is a visually brilliant, emotionally rich experience that celebrates life, nature, and the strong bonds of parenthood. A wonderful one-of-a-kind experience.

Neva is beautifully crafted and deeply emotional, making for one of the most touching and exquisite games of the year. I loved the growing companionship between Alba and her cute wolf pal, as they evolved from hesitant adventurers into confident allies. The visuals are simply breathtaking, with a stunning watercolour aesthetic and lovely little details in its animations. On top of that, combat is satisfying and just varied enough as new abilities get added into the mix. Though it may be a relatively short adventure, Neva leaves a lasting impression that will stay with you long after the credits roll.

Neva is a tale of growth not only within the game’s story but for Nomada Studio itself, showcasing how the studio has evolved since GRIS. With a more action-oriented focus, while retaining its emotional depth, Neva is a masterpiece. It's a must-play for anyone seeking a break from the grind of casual gaming, offering both meaningful gameplay and a heartfelt experience.

Neva offre un'esperienza di gioco contenuta (ma ben commisurata al prezzo di vendita all’uscita) che, pur non separandosi dai capisaldi del genere, sfrutta una componente artistica di altissimo livello per raccontare una storia semplice ma capace di lasciare il segno. L'ingegnosità del design dei capitoli e dei singoli riquadri di cui si compone l’avventura approfitta intelligentemente del ritmo elevato con cui questa si svolge di fronte agli occhi del giocatore, senza soffermarsi troppo a reiterare situazioni che, alla lunga, avrebbero fatto emergere i lati più deboli dell’opera. Tanta maestria nel giostrare tempi e modi permette a Neva di dare il meglio di sé in ogni frazione della sua, pur breve, durata.

Nomada Studio sube la apuesta respecto a GRIS y nos regala una obra mucho más completa y redonda. Quizás algo más corta de lo que me hubiese gustado, pudiendo haberse explotado la idea una horita más al menos. Aun así, la experiencia en su conjunto es sobresaliente. Destaca, sobre todo, un apartado audiovisual único, una obra de arte tras otra que provocará que guardes una galería, tanto mental como digital, de imágenes tremendamente bellas. Los añadidos al gameplay encajan como un guante y solo suman a la experiencia general, aunque podrían haber sido algo más finos y variados, sobre todo el combate.

Neva is an outstanding short experience that wows on so many fronts. The visuals are extremely appealing and vibrant, while the story tells an emotional, wholesome tale that feels elevated thanks to telling it in a more unique way through actions versus dialogue. The gameplay is a bit simple, but it does the job for the scope of the game. And while I had some stopping points with the environment, it was ultimately worthwhile and didn't take too long to figure out. It is also perfect to play on the Steam Deck, and I can't say that enough! This is an essential for your portable library, especially if you have an OLED screen.

Neva’s immaculate presentation, enjoyable action, and moving narrative prop it up among 2024’s best indies. Despite boasting thrilling cinematic sequences and jaw-dropping visuals, Neva’s best moments are often its smallest: watching a relieved Alba call her furry friend after a brutal fight to share an affectionate and appreciative embrace.

Neva is another winner from Nomada Studio, but it's also much more than that. It's a drop-dead gorgeous game with truly fun platforming action, puzzles and combat, with hauntingly-beautiful moments. But the titular character is the true highlight, easily encapsulating the biggest strengths as you see this wolf grow up alongside Alba. It's a journey of motherhood that takes the form of one of the year's best platformers, and just one of the year's best games, period.

Neva offers a unique, spiritual journey through life’s complexities. While the narrative leaves some elements open to interpretation, its grounded aspects make the characters relatable. Though brief, the adventure is full of memorable moments that will captivate you with each step toward its wonderful conclusion. The emotional and thought-provoking journey blends captivating storytelling with immersive gameplay to deliver a truly special experience.

Sur la même base de travail technique que GRIS, Neva nous propose pourtant une toute autre aventure où la relation entre les deux héros constitue le centre du récit. Apportant également la notion de combat pour des affrontements parfois bien nerveux - et tendus ! - cette nouvelle petite perle indépendante se découvre comme une bulle de fraîcheur de quelques heures dans un univers vidéoludique un peu trop cadenassé. Une fois de plus le parti pris esthétique constitue sa principale force même si on n’atteint pas la maestria visuelle du précédent jeu des studios Nomada (« les goûts et les couleurs », tout ça…). À réserver toutefois à ceux qui savent où ils mettent les pieds, car même si le titre nous a séduit, il reste un jeu « indé » de petite ampleur qui ne devra pas afficher à la caisse le même prix qu’un AAA.

Un precioso juego que conseguirá emocionarte.
Original en el planteamiento de puzles, con un apartado artístico increíble.

Neva offers a deeply emotional experience, telling a powerful story in a beautiful atmosphere.

Neva is a work of art that you will never get tired of looking at, and that has more craftsmanship than GRIS in every way. I demand that it be exhibited in museums.

Neva is another proof that Nomada Studio is one of the best studios at telling beautiful, deep and sentimental stories. It's charming, lovely and gorgeous thanks to the characters, their relationship and how it evolves, all the messages it has and, of course, the artistic direction. It is very short, but the impact will last forever.

One of the most enduring testaments of a powerful video game is turning off your console and enacting real change in the world. Just like how having a child can make you a completely different person and value what you once took for granted, Neva‘s everlasting message of compassion in the face of adversity is a legacy worth fighting for.

En definitiva, 'Neva' no es ni un paso adelante ni un paso atrás con respecto a 'GRIS', porque son visiones diferentes, aunque puedan parecer muy similares a simple vista. 'Neva' introduce un combate sencillo que funciona a la perfección para su cometido y deja atrás los puzzles para centrarse en las dificultades para avanzar y en el movimiento de la protagonista como solución de los enigmas. Mi mayor queja con 'Neva' es que se acaba muy pronto (en apenas 4-5 horas terminamos la historia y posiblemente con todos los coleccionables). Nómada Studios hace que hacer lo que hacen parezca fácil y nos dejan con ganas de mucho más. Toca esperar unos años más para conocer qué será del equipo catalán, pero el futuro es muy prometedor.

Neva is a beautiful game that hits you right in the feels, with engaging combat and a soundtrack that'll sweep you off your feet.

Neva è la nuova perla di Nomada studio che racconta le fasi delle vita mentre il mondo decade attorno a voi. Non raggiunge le vette di drammaticità di GRIS, ma lo supera in quanto a complessità dei sistemi di gioco, ponendosi come un passo in avanti per lo studio spagnolo, che ha trovato la sua strada e sa come imprimere il proprio marchio di fabbrica.

Neva is Nomada studio's new gem that chronicles the stages of life as the world decays around you. It does not reach the heights of drama of GRIS, but it surpasses it in complexity of game systems, setting itself as a step forward for the Spanish studio, which has found its way and knows how to stamp its trademark.

"Neva" ist so ein Titel, der mir ähnlich wie "GRIS" noch lange im Kopf hängen bleiben wird. Es nervt mich aber ein wenig, dass ich es auch nach mehrfachen Versuchen nicht schaffe, alle Blumen einzusammeln. Das bricht mein kleines Sammlerherz und stört meinen Wunsch, ein Game komplett durchzuspielen. Dadurch, dass die Sprungpassagen im Story-Modus nicht einfacher werden, ist das wirklich eine Herausforderung. Des Weiteren erinnert mich "Neva" irgendwie sehr an die Ghibli-Filme. Die Geschichte wirkt von dem Film "Prinzessin Mononoke" inspiriert, und die Monster vom Ohngesicht aus "Chihiros Reise ins Zauberland". Schade, dass hier keine Credits gegeben wurden, auch im Abspann nicht. Am meisten gepackt haben mich die Interaktionen mit "Neva". Ich habe gelesen, dass das Winseln von einem echten Husky aufgenommen und verwendet wurde. Es ist wirklich herzzerreissend süss! Alles in allem hatte ich viel Spass mit "Neva". Es ist ein Spiel, das vor allem durch seine Bildgewalt, seine Soundeffekte und seine Geschichte überzeugt.

Gorgeous visuals and an ethereal soundtrack invite players into the world of Neva. Yet these welcoming aesthetics are just the floral display surrounding a game with fast-paced combat, inventive platforming, and a touching story of the bond between warrior and wolf.

It's an evocative story that is beautifully told and has plenty of heart, and one that feels increasingly relevant in the context of the world that we live in.

Despite that, Neva is still an title that I believe most should dive in to. “Not being a revelation” is hardly a bad thing when what we have here is still a top-notch experience that was able to force feeling out of my dead heart.

Neva is a poignant platformer that's a worthy successor to the award-winning Gris. Its intricate and stunning Ghibliesque world is a visual marvel, and while its combat isn't wholly free from frustration, its stirring narrative ensures no dry eye in the room.

Après le sublime Gris, Nomada Studio est de retour avec un jeu d’action-aventure qui, sous ses airs de fable écologique avec une jeune femme et son loup, porte en réalité un propos bien plus lourd. Et on a aimé la manière dont Neva nous a pris de court. Le dernier bébé de l’équipe espagnole revient en plus avec une superbe direction artistique, où la nature pleine de détails contraste avec le “vide” de certains passages, empreints d’un surréalisme qui fait écho à Gris… Dans Neva, Nomada propose également - pour la première fois - des phases d’action-aventure et s’en sort plus que bien. Les démons qu’Alba doit affronter donnent lieu à des phases d’action prenantes, bien mises en scène, où règne une certaine tension (sans jamais verser dans un challenge excessif). Une très belle aventure qu’on vous recommande.

Cavalcare attraverso i paesaggi di Neva è un balsamo per il cuore. Il suo mondo dai toni pastello, decadente e malinconico, le esplosioni di colore e poi l'oscurità da affrontare a colpi di spada -proprio come la Principessa Mononoke-, offrono un'esperienza audiovisiva che ha pochi rivali. Attraverso il legame tra Alba e Neva, il nuovo videogioco di Nomada Studio ci racconta una storia di amicizia e genitorialità che si rifà anche ai poetici universi di Fumito Ueda. Un'esperienza breve, e forse ancora troppo semplice, ma che lascia il segno grazie al suo sconfinato valore artistico.

En algún lugar de las redes escuche mencionar a sus creadores que, NEVA fue el resultado de: una Joven muchacha luchando para proteger a un indefenso cachorro. Quien más tarde, con el correr de las estaciones se convertiría en una enorme loba. Lista para protegerla con sus feroces fauces de la absoluta oscuridad.  ¿Cómo se alternan los papeles? Tal vez… como la vida misma. Justo para recordarnos que incluso en los momentos más duros. En los momentos más difíciles no estamos solos. Ellos están presentes, y entregaran su vida sin pensarlo un momento. ¿No harías lo mismo por ellos? Gracias Nomada Studio por romperme en mil pedazos, una vez.

It makes you feel in ways you can’t even describe, and that’s a quality that makes Neva even more special with all the amazing things it has going for it.

Like a mix between Hayao Miyazaki and great French comic books, Neva is a breathtaking and heartbreaking adventure that stays with you long after it ends.

Beneath a simple gameplay concept and a stunning watercolour facade, Neva is a finely-tuned example of design and emotional storytelling.

Neva ist ein zugleich wunderschönes wie kurzweiliges Adventure, das auf emotionaler Ebene jedoch nicht ganz an Gris heranreicht. 

Neva é uma jornada bela e emocionante, cheia de cenários incríveis e personagens cativantes. A história é capaz de engajar desde o primeiro minuto, mesmo sem usar palavras e consegue evocar emoções usando cores e sons. O combate traz um diferencial interessante e nos faz engajar e aproximar da vida desses protagonistas além de ser uma evolução em relação à Gris. No geral, Neva tem todos os atributos para ser um ótimo jogo para curtir em uma tarde despreocupada: curto, não muito complexo e com uma história impactante.

Neva es un juego que no te puedes perder si te gustan los juegos bonitos y con un fuerte componente emocional. Si bien no destaca por sus mecánicas jugables, nos veremos envueltos en una mezcla de paisajes, colores y emociones que nos atrapará hasta llegar al final. 

Nomada Studio follows up on the striking Gris with an effort that's poignant and precise, if maybe just a tad melodramatic.

Neva is not yet a modern classic, but it's one of those games that can be completed in a couple of evenings but is memorable for years to come.

Neva certainly offers a touching emotional experience, though it may fall short of the standard set by Gris. However, if you're an animal lover, you might find even greater emotional value in this game. The white wolf companion is incredibly lifelike, and the process of nurturing it leaves a deep and lasting impression.

Neva is a great looking game that provides a few hours of joy from simply being immersed in its world. The gameplay, story, and pacing are a bit more subdued, however.

With Neva, Nomada Studio continues to display an unmatched level of craft as they create yet another visually striking and evocative fantasy world. But in bending it to fit new systems and more direct storytelling, Neva struggles to define itself beyond raw beauty and uneven, all too familiar thematic ground.

Und auch wenn die Spielwelt und die Präsentation euch in den Bann ziehen werden, spielerisch bleibt Neva auf der simplen Seite. Weder das Platforming noch die Kämpfe werden halbwegs erfahrene Gamer vor große Herausforderungen stellen, was umgekehrt dafür aber heißt, dass Neva auch für Einsteiger*innen zugänglich ist. Am Ende können wir für Neva eine Kaufempfehlung mit einem „aber“ aussprechen. Das Spiel wird euch zwar nur einige Stunden beschäftigen und euch dabei nicht allzu sehr fordern. Aber diese Stunden werden euch sehr, sehr lange in Erinnerung bleiben. Denn wie wir zu Beginn schon gesagt haben: Neva ist ein Kunstwerk und sollte auch so betrachtet werden.

Simplemente no me ha parecido tan significativo o inspirado, tampoco en su narrativa, por bien que hile las relaciones familiares con su naturaleza fantástica. Quitando ciertos pasajes destacables como las "bocas del infierno" y sus retos más creativos, y aparte de su innegable preciosidad, Neva se me ha hecho menos estimulante, como si la simplicidad sin complicaciones de Gris hubiera sido un mejor vehículo para tamaña inquietud artística.

It’s an effective moment in an otherwise pretty, though understated, adventure. Not every game needs to innovate, but considering that Neva is specifically about evolution, I found myself waiting for it to switch gears up through its abrupt ending. Like my pup early in our journey, Nomada Studio still feels like it’s growing as a developer. I can see its potential to create beautiful, heartfelt stories in both this and Gris, but it’s yet to really take a leap and find its voice when it comes to interactivity. But if Neva has taught me anything, it’s that growth doesn’t happen all at once. It’s a slow process that happens naturally. An uncertain whimper from the edge of a cliff can become a brave leap; it just takes a little time and encouragement.

Neva propose un voyage qui marquera à coup sûr les joueurs lui ayant donné sa chance. Avec une relation plutôt intime qui se liera avec le petit louveteau devenant, au fil des saisons, de plus en plus grand. Le titre saura satisfaire ceux qui ont un peu de temps devant eux, car c’est là le principal défaut du jeu, sa durée de vie. Là où Gris proposait une durée de vie de 5h environ, Neva pourra être terminé à 100% en un peu plus de 3h, et cela, sans réellement forcer l’exploration. Mais, qu’à cela ne tienne, Neva est un magnifique tableau. Et il ravira tous les joueurs ayant été touchés par le style de narration de Gris. Un récit qui se vit, qui se savoure et qui se partage.

Neva is a game that builds on the platforming prowess of its predecessor GRIS, offering powerful pastel visuals, incredible use of color and flora, and sublime set-pieces to tell a powerful story where your bond is everything. The game offers a newfound dynamism, trading in the label of a puzzle platformer for a more traditional adventure platforming approach. Sadly, the game fails to hit the narrative heights of its predecessor, and also fails to truly get the most out of each mechanic presented. But despite this, Neva is a captivating, visually jaw-dropping indie that is simply too good to ignore.

Neva is almost brilliant. This is a finely crafted game let down by too much empty time-wasting, untapped potential in its puzzling, and a rather onerous desire to make people cry.

Con todo y con eso, hay que remarcar que las particularidades de Neva hacen que sea un producto para paladares muy específicos. Hay más acción, sí, pero sigue siendo una propuesta bastante contemplativa, que se regodea porque se sabe como algo precioso, rozando en ocasiones una prepotencia honesta, al anteponer secuencias de varios segundos en los que la perspectiva se recrea en su impacto visual, priorizando planos amplios y grandilocuentes para que admiremos su belleza, entorpeciendo por momentos la navegación por el escenario. Su estilo abstracto también puede dejar preguntas de difusa respuesta; Neva, y la obra de Nomada Studio en general, juega a eso, como decimos, con su belleza abstracta y cruda por momentos, a que las interpretaciones personales sean la base de la conversación. Si me preguntáis a mí, todo esto hace que sea un juego que voy a llevar guardado en el corazón y del que me acordaré durante años. Y al que recurriré, porque me ha invitado a reflexionar sobre aspectos de mi vida que tal vez no estoy haciendo del todo bien. En realidad, diría que esa es su mayor virtud.

Para no alargarme más en este extenso análisis, concluyo destacando que Neva no será un juego que seguramente cope los titulares de las galas de final de año. Pero seguro que, si entras en él, no te arrepentirás. Imprescindible si te gustó lo que viste en Gris, lo recomiendo también para los que no lo hayan hecho. Con una factura audiovisual de las que sientan cátedra y una combinación perfecta y muy equilibrada de combate y plataformas, Neva además te removerá por dentro con su bonita historia, agridulce y cruda, pero que creemos que debe ser jugada. Hazlo ahora en su lanzamiento o espera una rebaja, pero hazlo.

Much of Neva feels propped up by its predecessor to cover its weaknesses, with familiar themes and the same platforming (flaws and all) from Gris encouraging fans of that game to not look too closely at this game’s faults. Ultimately, when Neva attempts a final narrative twist that fully leans away from the initially compelling and original themes of its story, it’s too much of a shift too late in the game, and only serves to undermine the few unique choices this experience attempts. At least it’s short.

In these moments, I think about my own dogs, about Alba and Neva, and the wolf who came before. I’ve thought a lot about how my relationship with the new pup will change and grow — about how it’ll be different or the same as with my best friend. There is no replacement to what I’ve lost, to what Alba and Neva have lost. But even forged in grief, something beautiful will grow. We’ll just move forward. Alba and Neva do, too.

I am in real danger of sounding ungrateful, because jeopardy was something I wanted more of in Gris. It's present in Neva, but the nuts and bolts need tightening before it hits an Ori And The Blind Forest, game of the year, orchestral tour sort of level of greatness. That aside - which in fairness is quite a big "that" in an action platformer - I think Neva is a step above Gris. The experience as a whole is engaging and bittersweet enough that I'll even forgive the 'it was all a dream' switcheroo.

Neva es ante todo una obra de arte. Uno de esos títulos que le pasa la mano por la cara a cualquiera que ose negar que los videojuegos lo son. Cuenta con un estilo que recuerda a GRIS, pero que se aleja lo suficiente como para tener esencia propia. Y por este motivo podremos identificar su conexión con su desarrolladora considerándolos de forma independiente. Y esto mismo se traslada al resto del contenido: a su historia, su combate y sus plataformas. Todo ello elementos que no hacen sino diferenciarlo y construirle su propio espacio, como dos hermanos que crecen de forma independiente.

Neva es un excelente indie, un viaje emocional lleno de simbolismo. Un juego con un gameplay excelente que nos llevará desde la oscuridad a la esperanza y donde Nomada Studio nos ha regalado otra obra maestra.

Neva a donc été une excellente surprise. Le nouveau jeu de Nomada Studio réussit à se démarquer des autres jeux d'aventure narratifs en évitant le piège d'en reprendre la formule à la lettre. Grâce à ses phases de plateformes et ses combats, combinés à un système de difficulté simple mais bien intégré, Neva trouve un bel équilibre entre la dimension ludique d'un jeu et ses qualités artistiques. C'est donc une bien belle réussite que nous offre là le studio espagnol.

Dizer que Neva vale a pena seria chover no molhado. Se você procura uma jornada linda, acompanhada por uma trilha sonora impecável, este é definitivamente o jogo para você. E se você já jogou Gris, Neva é obrigatório, sem dúvida.

Neva es una obra de arte jugable, un título totalmente imprescindible y uno de los juegos más bonitos hechos en nuestro país. Su apartado artístico es como un bello lienzo en donde se narra una preciosa historia cargada de mensajes sobre la maternidad, los miedos del ser humano, la naturaleza y la misma vida.

Una experiencia corta, divertida de jugar y sobre todo, muy emocionante. Neva consigue provocar sentimientos en el jugador, tristeza, alegría, ira, miedo, sorpresa, amor,… en fin, logra hacerte sentir vivo. Gracias a Nomada Studio por este inolvidable viaje.

Es una de esas piezas únicas que cuando salen borran de un plumazo el debate sobre si el videojuego puede ser arte. Incluso alguien que no tiene ni idea de expresión artística como es quien suscribe estas líneas, es capaz de captar la belleza de cada fotograma y sentir congoja al ver cómo se transforma un mundo que está constantemente en el límite entre la oscuridad y la luz.