The nostalgia evoked by the PlayStation 1 (PS1) is a bittersweet melody, often accompanied by dark, atmospheric undertones—primarily from horror games like Silent Hill. For many young gamers, this iconic console might be perceived solely as a vehicle for fear rather than a vessel of vibrant and innovative gameplay. A closer examination of the games emerging from platforms like Itch.io reveals a trend of bleakness that can overshadow the rich diversity of experiences available during the PS1’s heyday. Amongst the desolate and eerie realms, one game emerges as a beacon of color and creativity: Water Level/b.l.u.e. EXPLORATION, crafted by New York-based designer Hatim Benhsain.
Water Level/b.l.u.e. EXPLORATION offers a fresh take inspired by the Japan-exclusive b.l.u.e.: Legend of Water, a game that allowed players to traverse alien landscapes alongside a dolphin. Benhsain transforms this nostalgic setting into a layered exploration of gaming itself. The title transforms the act of swimming into a metaphorical journey through various gaming universes, effectively merging different styles and experiences. It’s more than just a clever reimagining; it’s a deeper commentary on how games reference and repurpose one another.
The foundation of Benhsain’s work is built on what he terms “plunderludic”—games constructed from elements borrowed from various sources. By doing so, he creates an interactive experience that feels simultaneously familiar and refreshingly new. The concept raises intriguing questions about originality and authorship in the ever-evolving landscape of video game design. In a world where games continuously recycle ideas and mechanics, can we draw lines that distinguish these plunderludic creations from simpler multimedia collages? Benhsain’s work challenges traditional notions of game design, encouraging players to engage with the medium on a deeper intellectual level.
One of the most captivating aspects of Water Level/b.l.u.e. EXPLORATION is its artistic blend of visuals and sound. As players traverse a cerulean world punctuated by jagged stone structures, the experience becomes a sensory feast. The environments are a beautifully chaotic amalgamation of levels inspired by Dark Souls, Super Mario 64, and Kingdom Hearts, creating a patchwork of exploration that invites curiosity. The game’s graphics are reminiscent of the PS1 era, yet they are interwoven with modern techniques that help to elevate the overall aesthetic experience. The nostalgia of gameplay is paired with a surreal touch that revitalizes what it means to explore underwater realms.
Meanwhile, the soundtrack is an intrigue of its own, featuring eclectic snippets from diverse sources such as American Idol performances and Madonna tracks, punctuated by text reminiscent of GameFAQs. This juxtaposition of sound adds layers to the experience, allowing players to draw connections between swimming, artistry, and memory. The combination of familiar and unfamiliar soundscapes enhances the sensation of being submerged in a fluid environment, where each action feels instinctive yet dreamlike.
With each swim through the pixelated waters, players find themselves on a nostalgic journey. The fluid mechanics and light play featured in the game harken back to a simpler time while also celebrating the advancements made in aquatic physics. Yet, it opens the door to a larger discussion about how modern games may have veered away from creating the enchanting underwater experiences that once captivated players. There’s a magical quality to the act of exploring underwater realms that evokes wonder and thrill—a feeling that seems subtly lost in contemporary gaming.
Benhsain’s Water Level/b.l.u.e. EXPLORATION is a testament to the potential of video games to challenge players to rethink boundaries—of both gameplay and genre. As we swim in this ocean of creativity, we are reminded that exploration is not solely about finding new experiences, but also about reconnecting with the memories and emotions tied to our gaming past. The tides are changing, and perhaps it’s time for both old and new players to dive deep into this refreshing aquatic adventure, discovering treasures hidden beneath the surface.