Casual · 2018
The Waters Above: Prelude
Is a free prequel experience set in a mystical world where a colossal dome, the Vault of Heaven, separates Earth from the celestial ocean. Sea nymphs tend to the stars, but magic is vanishing, and the stars are dying—yet silence reigns. This narrative-driven game follows three sea nymphs and a living star as they grapple with existential uncertainty. Maera, a respected Starkeeper; Clio, her partner and Celestial maintenance leader; Iris, a determined archivist; and Apple, the first star in millennia to take human form, embark on a journey to uncover purpose in a fading world. The game features striking character art by Namie and immersive environments by Loika, paired with a haunting banda sonora by Kris "Astartus" Flacke. Players can explore accessibility settings, unlock a music room, view CG, and browse a guest art gallery. While it lacks a symbolic handkerchief for emotional moments, its focus on storytelling and world-building.