ABZU

 PlayStation 4
User Score
7.8

Generally favorable reviews- based on 531 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 339 out of 531
  2. Mixed: 146 out of 531
  3. Negative: 46 out of 531
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  1. ChuckDee33
    Aug 3, 2016
    10
    I've been playing games at a moderate level for over 25 years now, so I have some authority to speak on the topic like many of us I'm sure. This game kind of transcends the medium, I believe. It's not a game, not in the traditional sense anyway. It's more of an experience simulator. One with gorgeous visuals, a sublime soundtrack and one of the most smooth and elegant control schemesI've been playing games at a moderate level for over 25 years now, so I have some authority to speak on the topic like many of us I'm sure. This game kind of transcends the medium, I believe. It's not a game, not in the traditional sense anyway. It's more of an experience simulator. One with gorgeous visuals, a sublime soundtrack and one of the most smooth and elegant control schemes I've encountered. It's a mechanically simple and direct setup, without the need to explain anything via menus or on screen text. In fact, there no HUD item of any kind, no map or marks, not even a health bar. You can't die or really get "hurt". You don't know where this world comes from or what it means. It's an undersea dream world though. That's the beauty of this type of media at this level, that you can bring your own experiences and emotions away from it. For PS+ users it's only $16. At just 3-4 hours of general playtime I still believe it's worth every penny of that. Another advantage it has going for it is that literally almost anyone capable of moving a joystick and holding a button down could play this and get something out of it. Only negative I could mark on it would be it's shortness, but again for the price it was worth more than that. I definitely wanted to see more creatures and see how far I would go down the rabbit hole. I also want to praise the graphics and art direction more specifically. There is a great balance between realism and game world here. In that I mean it's not trying to portray a true ecological version of the sea, but the aesthetic is very much intact. Replayability, yeah you could definitely play through this a second time and probably find some of the items you missed on the first run. It is a fairly linear game in that you're moving from one clearly definable area (sometimes smaller and sometimes enormous) to another. Within these areas you have the general freedom to move wherever you like and explore off the beaten path, but there's always a very simple mechanic upon which to progress, so you can't really go around the level design in that way. If you care about this sort of thing, there's a pretty wide variety of sea life to be found and they're all rendered very well and glide through the water convincingly. The giant schools of smaller fish swarming in a cyclone is something to be seen. With the excellent ambient soundtrack to boot, I can't recommended this one enough. Even after you've put the controller down it will stay with you longer than most games these days.

    TIP - the only menu setting is for the directional controls. I recommend trying out both normal and inverted on all three axes to find the right combination for you. Trust me, fool around with in the first level and tweak it to your preference, it'll be a better experience if you do this up front.    … Expand
  2. Malooga
    Aug 5, 2016
    10
    I have to say, Abzu might be might pick for GOTY, at the very least in the indie development category. There are many who argue that true art, in any form, is only art because it remains unexplained by the artist. Abzu is true art in that sense. Sure, there is a story told here, but I sincerely hope the developer does not elaborate on their inspiration, because it is the kind of story thatI have to say, Abzu might be might pick for GOTY, at the very least in the indie development category. There are many who argue that true art, in any form, is only art because it remains unexplained by the artist. Abzu is true art in that sense. Sure, there is a story told here, but I sincerely hope the developer does not elaborate on their inspiration, because it is the kind of story that will mean different things to different people.

    It definitely draws inspiration through Journey (same art studio, same orchestra) but even takes a little from more retro titles like Treasures of the Deep and Echo the Dolphin. Movement is VERY fluent, although the camera struggles to keep up sometimes. Mostly what will have you gasping and coming back are the music and art.

    Combined they make for some of the most amazing set-pieces I have ever seen in gaming, and I'd be lying if I didn't say a couple of them nearly moved me to tears. If you care at all about the artistic value of video games, do NOT pass up Abzu. An incredible award/praise worthy effort from Giant Squid, with very few complaints (mostly centering on some incongruities with fish anatomy/migration) that most people won't even notice.

    Simply perfect, 10/10.    … Expand
  3. Megagal1978
    Aug 2, 2016
    10
    Absolutely breathtaking. That was one of the most enjoyable video game experiences I've had in quite some time. No, you can't die, it's not difficult, there's no assault rifles, and no dungeons. But it's an amazing experience and it will take you away to another place entirely. I found myself smiling from ear to ear many moments during the 3 to 4 hours of gameplay. I highly recommendAbsolutely breathtaking. That was one of the most enjoyable video game experiences I've had in quite some time. No, you can't die, it's not difficult, there's no assault rifles, and no dungeons. But it's an amazing experience and it will take you away to another place entirely. I found myself smiling from ear to ear many moments during the 3 to 4 hours of gameplay. I highly recommend this game/experience,… Expand
  4. HaloFever
    Aug 18, 2017
    10
    Abzu is a Perfect 10. Keep in mind the kind of game it is. It is a spiritual successor to Journey. It is a "chill" game. It is also a tight experience that can be finished in one playthrough. For this genre, the game is absolutely doing everything right and I love it.

    Abzu has some start differences from Journey which make it wonderful on its own. First and foremost is the underwater    Abzu is a Perfect 10. Keep in mind the kind of game it is. It is a spiritual successor to Journey. It is a "chill" game. It is also a tight experience that can be finished in one playthrough. For this genre, the game is absolutely doing everything right and I love it.

    Abzu has some start differences from Journey which make it wonderful on its own. First and foremost is the underwater setting. The protagonist, Abzu?, can swim in all axis, ride along larger sea creatures, and interact with some parts of the environmental. Secondly but equally important, the water is full of many, many species of sea creatures. The interaction with the sea creatures is utterly beautiful, and you can watch the fish form schools as the bigger fish eat the smaller fish. The use of color, light, and design is well done, though it would be nice to have a hyper realistic version with VR support. Thirdly but also equally important, the music is jaw droppingly gorgeous. I bought the soundtrack. First time I have ever done that. This is how good the music is. Sometimes I just let Abzu float while I listened to the soundtrack.

    I am fully aware that Abzu is a controversial title. There are folks who just plain don't like these kind of chill games. That's fine. There are also folks who will always compare Abzu to Journey. That's fine too. I also liked Journey for many of the same reasons I like Abzu. Although I think both groups are missing out on a great experience, this review stands on its own. I love Abzu, my kids love, and I look forward to playing through it again.

    Full disclosure: I bought Abzu during the winter holidays at a discount only to later see it go free with PS Plus. Kudos to Sony for bringing this game to the masses. Ordinarily I am nonplussed when a game I buy goes free, but this is not the game's fault, so to speak. If you did pick up Abzu from PS Plus, do yourself a favor and give it a go.    … Expand
  5. adrianvandelzel
    Sep 1, 2016
    10
    Un juego precioso, no entiendo como hay gente que le da una baja puntuacion. Es relajante y bello, vale su precio en oro, estoy muy contento con esta compra.
  6. Lbjmvp232
    Aug 9, 2016
    10
    If you aren't entranced by mechanically shallow games like Journey, don't bother. But if you find exploration titles even marginally interesting, Abzu is an absolute must-play – it's the most majestic one yet
  7. joshcam19
    Aug 2, 2016
    10
    A combination of Endless Ocean and Journey. A wonderful game and incredibly beautiful. When you are swimming with literally hundreds of different kinds of fish at once it is like nothing ever. Completely breathtaking.
  8. Frankdnb
    Oct 21, 2017
    10
    Very cool concept in a game, it's mostly about exploring the ocean and finding sea creatures. Love the music and the look of this game. A bit short but overall a great experience.
  9. NickCrit
    Feb 26, 2017
    10
    This is more a relaxing meditative experience than a game. Beautiful underwater / ocean scenery and relaxing artistic experience. If you are looking for an action / shooting game; this isn't it.
  10. Olakasexd
    Feb 26, 2017
    10
    Una aventura un poca corta, pero hermosa. La banda sonora, la exploracion y el nivel artistico te enganchan desde el primer momento. De los creadores de Journey, nada mas que decir.
  11. Al1ne
    Jul 2, 2021
    10
    This game is ine of the best platformers i ever played. Her landscapes is so spectacular and cute. Gameplay is relaxing
  12. julesyBaby5000
    May 31, 2022
    10
    I stumbled across this game on a random Sunday afternoon and oh wow, what an absolute diamond in the rough! If you are looking for a relaxing enjoyable artsy game Abzu is absolutely amazing!
  13. WadieGamer
    Apr 17, 2021
    10
    I loved the game, so many fascinating details such as underwater architecture, soundtracks and the fact that the game relieves stress and anxiety.
    Absolutely 10/10
  14. Madigman
    Jun 19, 2021
    10
    Brilliant game with stunnig graphics. Perfect for meditating and after work session
  15. misak192
    Mar 26, 2021
    10
    Loved it!

    I wasn't a fan of Journey but I enjoyed this so much! Beautiful music. Colours. Everything just so nice and calm.
  16. VanCan72
    Apr 4, 2021
    10
    I genuinely love this game and enjoyed it. Its not for everyone, action isn't at the forefront by any means. Its a very artsy and chilled out exploration game that only takes an hour or 2 to get through.
  17. Colubrinus
    May 7, 2023
    10
    Anyone can buy the most expensive paints and the most expensive canvas then throw the two together to create a colorful painting. But a masterful artist can breathe life into literal trash off the ground.

    Abzu didn't have a team like Bethesda or Ubisoft, but still made a game that effortlessly blows any release by those two studios in the last 5 years out of the water. Everyone's    Anyone can buy the most expensive paints and the most expensive canvas then throw the two together to create a colorful painting. But a masterful artist can breathe life into literal trash off the ground.

    Abzu didn't have a team like Bethesda or Ubisoft, but still made a game that effortlessly blows any release by those two studios in the last 5 years out of the water.

    Everyone's definition of 10/10 is different, but you can tell the creators of Abzu had a vision, and I think they nailed it.    … Expand
  18. Higepanda
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    手軽な価格帯、程よいメッセージ性、ハイレベルな美しさと、終盤の爽快感が素晴らしいゲーム。
    家族や親子、カップルでも、皆で楽しみやすいゲームになっており、
    癒しの時間として楽しむのにもお勧めです。
  19. TrevZ
    Aug 2, 2016
    9
    This game is beautiful and emotional by using simple actions and colors to evoke emotion. Not as thought provoking as journey, but tells a very cryptic message about life and beauty.
  20. OliverBridson
    Sep 16, 2016
    9
    If you're not a fan of small, artistic experiences in games then Abzu isn't for you. If you're not drawn to a game because of it's art or musical direction then again Abzu isn't for you. However, if you're captivated by artistic visuals and beautiful musical scores then Abzu is most certainly for you.

    Abzu's combination of visuals and music is sublime. The score feels dynamic, seamless    If you're not a fan of small, artistic experiences in games then Abzu isn't for you. If you're not drawn to a game because of it's art or musical direction then again Abzu isn't for you. However, if you're captivated by artistic visuals and beautiful musical scores then Abzu is most certainly for you.

    Abzu's combination of visuals and music is sublime. The score feels dynamic, seamless and its ambient presence fits the aesthetically gorgeous ocean setting perfectly.

    Control wise, Abzu has some of the most satisfying swimming controls I've seen. Swimming feels simple, seamless and handles incredibly well. Once you master the controls, exploring the environments feels incredibly satisfying.

    The narrative arc of the game is minimalist. You essentially have to figure out the story for yourself, and it's definitely open to interpretation. But for me, this made my experience with the game feel personal, spiritual, and at times breathtaking.

    If you enjoyed Journey, you'll love Abzu.    … Expand
  21. GamingNinja
    Aug 2, 2016
    9
    It might not live up to the masterpiece that was Journey.
    But damn this is still one great, beautiful crafted game.
    For any Journey fan this game is a no brainer go pick it up now.
  22. MasterRiley
    Jun 1, 2017
    9
    Abzu is a linear story driven game that has a very simple premise but is filled with a lot of heart. Take the game Journey and put it under water, and you have Abzu. While it takes a lot of inspiration from Journey (sharing some of the same developers and composer) it still manages to be its on game with its own unique quality. Specifically, one of the key relationships that develops overAbzu is a linear story driven game that has a very simple premise but is filled with a lot of heart. Take the game Journey and put it under water, and you have Abzu. While it takes a lot of inspiration from Journey (sharing some of the same developers and composer) it still manages to be its on game with its own unique quality. Specifically, one of the key relationships that develops over the story really helps Abzu be interesting and memorable. Overall; the game has great music, art design, and a touching story that everyone can appreciate.… Expand
  23. Gautham27
    Aug 4, 2016
    9
    An amazingly beautiful game with an incredible array of different species. The levels and habitats were brilliantly made with lots of fine details. Not to mention that the art is incredible too. Only complain is the lack of a story and the play time.
  24. torq314
    Aug 21, 2016
    9
    Another masterpiece from the duo Matt Nava and Austin Wintory. If you loved Journey and expect a spiritual sequel of it, you have just found it here. Gorgeous design and music and a relaxing gameplay.

    The only subtle drawback is that the story lacks the depth of Journey, there is no such sense of "coherent wholeness", a metaphor of something bigger than the simple story you follow.    Another masterpiece from the duo Matt Nava and Austin Wintory. If you loved Journey and expect a spiritual sequel of it, you have just found it here. Gorgeous design and music and a relaxing gameplay.

    The only subtle drawback is that the story lacks the depth of Journey, there is no such sense of "coherent wholeness", a metaphor of something bigger than the simple story you follow. Specifically, I missed the story behind the civilization that left the ruins you explore. In Journey you meet other beings, in Abzu you just explore and don't meet anyone.

    Despite this, I strongly recommend Abzu. Well spent money and a team of creative people that we really expect to get more games from in future.    … Expand
  25. BSchwarz95
    Dec 29, 2018
    9
    Abzu is a game that I never heard of until I started making a little list of indie games I'd like to play, and now that I've played it I can say for certain that it definitely deserves to be on everybody's little list of indie games to play. It doesn't offer a long experience, but it does offer an emotionally impactful experience through the beauty of its art design, intimate tale, andAbzu is a game that I never heard of until I started making a little list of indie games I'd like to play, and now that I've played it I can say for certain that it definitely deserves to be on everybody's little list of indie games to play. It doesn't offer a long experience, but it does offer an emotionally impactful experience through the beauty of its art design, intimate tale, and mesmerizing atmosphere. If you have Playstation Now, I say just start playing the game, you'll beat it in 90 minutes tops and will definitely not regret giving this game a try.… Expand
  26. MarsCorialanus
    Nov 11, 2017
    9
    Relaxing, beautiful, and uplifting. Its not the usual game experience, so I want to be clear that this is a 9 for me. I can see how a lot of people would not necessarily find this game appealing. However, if you're looking for a game that is just kind of beautiful and relaxing to play then give it a try. I think this sort of "Interactive Painting" game really has a niche place in the industry.
  27. CatPowerz
    Nov 8, 2019
    9
    This game is emotional.
    The graphic and the colours are incredible!
    It makes you Happy to live.
    Now I want to go and swim into the sea.
    Great Game!!!
  28. Skurttish
    Jun 12, 2020
    9
    We ‘played’ this game as a movie, with our family sitting around the TV after dinner one night and one person holding the controller. In that format, it worked great. It’s a beautiful game with good variation in the environments you swim through, and our family enjoyed the ending.

    We got this game with our PlayStation Now subscription, and that price feels about right. If you have to    We ‘played’ this game as a movie, with our family sitting around the TV after dinner one night and one person holding the controller. In that format, it worked great. It’s a beautiful game with good variation in the environments you swim through, and our family enjoyed the ending.

    We got this game with our PlayStation Now subscription, and that price feels about right. If you have to pay any more than that (or $3-$4), then just watch a play through on YouTube. It is quite short.    … Expand
  29. EshanBhatt
    Jun 20, 2020
    9
    The most beautiful game I have ever seen. The way the music blends with the gameplay and mystery of the story gave me goosebumps, and it was JAW Dropping. Only flaw I found with the game was the very limited gameplay that was very repetitive throughout. However I understand that was not the main point of the game so I cannot discredit the outstanding work by the devs and team that worked on ABZU.
  30. DARU3108
    Jul 9, 2020
    9
    The atmosphere that this game puts you into is amazing and unforgivable, this is not as good as journey but still a fantastic adventure.
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Awards & Rankings

97
#97 Best PS4 Game of 2016
30
#30 Most Discussed PS4 Game of 2016
67
#67 Most Shared PS4 Game of 2016

Critic Reviews

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Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 72 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 53 out of 72
  2. Mixed: 16 out of 72
  3. Negative: 3 out of 72
  1. Critical Hit
    Mar 16, 2017
    80
    Abzu is quite simply a breath-taking piece of interactive art, that feels vivid and more alive than you’d imagine a video game was capable of being.
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  2. Easy Allies
    Dec 1, 2016
    80
    A wonderful trip beneath the waves, abounding in small surprises and impressing with the sheer density of life in certain scenes. Whether you’re riding a manta ray or zipping along a speedy current like a highway, it makes the natural world fun while adding its own intriguing mysteries to uncover.
    Read full review
  3. JeuxActu
    Nov 4, 2016
    90
    Abzû is one of the best games of 2016 with a cryptic yet very good story, alongside with beautiful visuals that go way beyond the aquatic screensaver. Unless you're a hardcore action fan, you have to try it.
    Read full review
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