Frictional Games' SOMA: A Deep Dive into Existential Horror and Transhumanism

Frictional Games' SOMA: A Deep Dive into Existential Horror and Transhumanism

SOMA, developed by Frictional Games, creators of the acclaimed Amnesia series, dives headfirst into existential horror with a chilling exploration of consciousness, identity, and the ethical implications of transhumanism. Released in 2015 for PC and later ported to PlayStation 4 and Xbox One, SOMA stands as a masterful blend of psychological terror, philosophical questioning, and hauntingly beautiful environments.

A Submerged Nightmare: The Plot Unfolds

The story follows Simon Jarrett, an ordinary man who awakens aboard PATHOS-II, an underwater research facility ravaged by a catastrophic event. Simon’s mind is immediately flooded with confusion and fear as he struggles to piece together fragmented memories and the chilling reality surrounding him.

He soon discovers that PATHOS-II is not what it seems. The facility is teeming with corrupted robots and mutated creatures known as “the WAU,” which exhibits sentience and a disturbing desire to “fix” everything and everyone, often through horrifying methods.

Guided by cryptic messages and encounters with the few remaining survivors struggling for sanity amidst the chaos, Simon embarks on a harrowing journey to uncover the truth behind PATHOS-II’s downfall and his own unexpected connection to it all.

Themes that Haunt: Exploring Deeper Meanings

SOMA transcends typical jump scares and gore. Instead, it weaves a complex tapestry of themes that delve into the very essence of what it means to be human.

  • Consciousness and Identity: The game constantly challenges players to question their own sense of self. Encounters with sentient robots and mutated humans blur the line between artificial intelligence and genuine consciousness, forcing Simon (and the player) to confront uncomfortable truths about the nature of existence.

  • The Ethics of Technology: SOMA doesn’t shy away from exploring the potential dangers of unchecked technological advancement. The WAU’s desire to “fix” everything ultimately leads to destruction and suffering, highlighting the ethical dilemmas associated with artificial intelligence and genetic manipulation.

  • Isolation and Despair: PATHOS-II’s desolate environments and chilling atmosphere evoke a profound sense of isolation and despair. Simon’s journey is marked by loss, uncertainty, and the constant threat of unseen horrors, creating a deeply unsettling experience that lingers long after the credits roll.

Production Features: A Masterclass in Atmospheric Horror

Frictional Games excels at crafting immersive and terrifying experiences, and SOMA is no exception.

  • Atmospheric Sound Design: The game’s sound design is truly exceptional. Every creak, moan, and distorted whisper contributes to a chilling soundscape that amplifies the sense of dread and paranoia.
  • Stunning Visuals: Despite its underwater setting, SOMA boasts breathtaking visuals. From the decaying corridors of PATHOS-II to the haunting bioluminescent depths, the game creates a world that is both beautiful and unsettling.

Gameplay Mechanics: Navigating the Abyss

SOMA emphasizes exploration and atmosphere over action-packed combat. Players must carefully navigate dimly lit environments, solve environmental puzzles, and avoid or outsmart hostile creatures. There are no weapons to rely on; survival hinges on stealth, cunning, and understanding the motivations of your enemies.

The game’s unique “Omni-Tool” allows Simon to interact with objects and terminals, providing clues about the facility’s history and unlocking crucial pathways. It also allows for hacking into robotic systems, manipulating them to aid in his escape or even turning them against each other – a chilling testament to the power of technology within the game’s narrative.

SOMA: A Lasting Impact

Frictional Games’ SOMA isn’t just a horror game; it’s an experience that will stay with you long after you finish playing. It challenges your perceptions, confronts you with ethical dilemmas, and forces you to confront the very nature of existence itself. With its haunting atmosphere, thought-provoking themes, and masterful storytelling, SOMA stands as a true masterpiece of the horror genre and a testament to the power of video games to explore profound philosophical questions.

Feature Description
Developer: Frictional Games
Genre: Survival Horror, Psychological Horror
Platforms: PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One
Release Date: September 2015
Key Themes: Consciousness, Identity, Transhumanism, Technology, Isolation

If you’re seeking a horror experience that will leave you questioning your place in the universe, SOMA is an absolute must-play. Be prepared to confront your fears and delve into the darkest depths of human consciousness.