What Surrounds Us invites players into a whimsical world where circles reign supreme. At its core, the game features a charming protagonist: a circle with a hole at its center, reminiscent of a donut adorned with frosting. Players navigate this vibrant landscape alongside other sentient circles, fostering connections and joy as they explore a map composed entirely of circular forms. This design choice is not merely aesthetic; it reinforces the game’s underlying themes of interconnectedness and environmental harmony.
While the visual style may be trippy, the gameplay structure feels familiar, echoing the beloved Legend of Zelda series. As players traverse three distinct regions, they encounter lightweight puzzles that facilitate progress. The journey is punctuated by the acquisition of new abilities, such as a powerful leap that allows for traversing gaps. However, challenges arise in the form of a glitchy substance that obstructs paths, requiring players to think creatively to navigate around it.
In a departure from conventional gaming tutorials, What Surrounds Us offers minimal guidance. With scant text and only a few on-screen prompts, players are encouraged to explore and experiment. This design choice fosters a sense of discovery, as players learn through trial and error. For instance, using a ping near a dark circle can unveil new pathways, while venturing too close to aggressive enemy circles may lead to unfortunate encounters.
Much like the Zelda franchise, the satisfaction derived from experimentation is a hallmark of the gameplay experience. Players gradually uncover the rules of the game, often leading to delightful surprises. The meaning behind the game’s circular motifs is left for interpretation, inviting players to decipher their significance. For example, dark red circles serve as barriers, while bringing a lonely circle to a group of friendly ones elicits joyous reactions from the characters.
The ambient soundtrack complements the serene atmosphere, providing an ethereal backdrop that enhances the exploration experience without overwhelming the senses. In just three hours of gameplay, What Surrounds Us manages to weave together thematic depth and engaging mechanics, proving that even a simple donut-shaped character can embody profound narratives and interactions.
Now available on PC via Steam, What Surrounds Us offers a unique blend of creativity and gameplay that invites players to reflect on their surroundings while enjoying a captivating adventure.
