Discover New Worlds: Top 5 Alternatives to Oddworld: Soulstorm

If you are a fan of the Oddworld series and have been captivated by the latest installment, Oddworld: Soulstorm, you might be searching for something similar to sink your teeth into next. The game's blend of platforming, puzzle-solving, and social commentary sets it apart from many other titles in the genre. However, there are still plenty of unique games out there that offer an experience close enough to make them worth your while. In this article, we will explore five alternatives to Oddworld: Soulstorm. Each game selected offers a similar blend of gameplay mechanics and story-driven narratives but has the distinct flavor that could make it your next favorite title. So, without further ado, let's dive into these alternative worlds.

1. Inside

Inside is a dark, atmospheric indie game developed by Playdead. It shares many thematic and mechanical similarities with Oddworld: Soulstorm but presents them in a more minimalist style.

Gameplay:

Inside is a side-scrolling platformer where players control a young boy traversing through various deadly environments filled with traps and puzzles. The world is full of threats waiting at every corner, requiring quick reactions and clever thinking from the player.

Story & Setting:

The narrative in Inside is mostly told through environmental storytelling - there are no dialogues or text prompts; instead, you piece together what’s happening based on what you see as you progress. The focus is on creating a haunting atmosphere and raising questions rather than providing clear-cut answers.

2. Abe’s Exoddus

Intro:

Abe’s Exoddus is another entry in the Oddworld series that predates Soulstorm but offers a similar experience. If you enjoyed Soulstorm, it's worth revisiting this classic game.

Gameplay:

Abe’s Exoddus is a 2D platformer where players control Abe, who can interact with his environment and other characters to solve puzzles. The gameplay involves a lot of trial and error, requiring strategic thinking and precise timing.

Story & Setting:

Set in the same dystopian world as Soulstorm, Abe’s Exoddus follows our protagonist as he uncovers the corporate exploitation of his people. It features the same dark humor and social commentary that fans have come to expect from the series.

3. Little Nightmares

Little Nightmares is a horror adventure game developed by Tarsier Studios. While not as directly related to Oddworld: Soulstorm in terms of gameplay mechanics, it provides an equally compelling narrative-driven experience.

Gameplay:

In Little Nightmares, players control Six, a small child trapped in a nightmarish world filled with grotesque creatures. The game combines platforming and stealth elements as Six must avoid detection while navigating through her terrifying surroundings.

Story & Setting:

The story of Little Nightmares revolves around themes of childhood fears and the loss of innocence. Its setting is both fantastical and horrifying, making for an unforgettable journey that will stay with you long after you've finished playing.

4. Limbo

Another masterpiece from Playdead, Limbo is a minimalist side-scrolling platformer that shares Oddworld: Soulstorm's focus on atmospheric storytelling and challenging puzzle-solving.

Gameplay:

Limbo's gameplay involves navigating through treacherous environments filled with traps that often require multiple attempts to pass. The game combines platforming, puzzle-solving, and elements of horror to create a tense and engaging experience.

Story & Setting:

Set in a monochromatic world shrouded in mystery, Limbo's story is told entirely through its environment and gameplay. It's a tale of a young boy searching for his lost sister in a hostile world, filled with symbolism and open-ended interpretations.

5. Deadlight

Deadlight is an action-adventure side-scrolling platformer developed by Tequila Works. Although it leans more towards the action side compared to Oddworld: Soulstorm, it shares the same post-apocalyptic setting and emphasis on narrative storytelling.

Gameplay:

In Deadlight, players control Randall Wayne as he traverses through zombie-infested environments. Gameplay involves a mix of combat, platforming, and puzzle-solving.

Story & Setting:

Deadlight takes place in 1986 post-apocalyptic Seattle, where humanity has been devastated by zombies. The narrative follows Randall's search for his family while dealing with the harsh realities of this new world order.

Each game offers something unique while still capturing some essence of what makes Oddworld: Soulstorm so enjoyable. Whether you're looking for another challenging platformer or simply want a compelling narrative-driven gaming experience, these games are sure to satisfy your needs.