The gaming world has recently been plunged back under with the release of the much-anticipated third DLC of Atomic Heart, titled Enchantment Under the Sea, launched on January 28, 2025. Developed by the Russian studio Mundfish, this expansion promises players new underwater adventures and challenges within the depths of the Neptune research complex.
The DLC showcases the return of Major Sergey Nechaev, known as P-3, as he embarks on yet another mission to combat the chaos unleashed by rogue robots. Accompanied by new characters, including the roboticist Nikolai—who is uniquely voiced by popular science YouTuber Kyle Hill—players can expect to face off against formidable new enemies, including the massive MOR-4Y bot, along with engaging gameplay features.
Available on major platforms such as PC (Steam, VK Play), PS4, PS5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S, Enchantment Under the Sea lets players explore the Neptune complex, offering a thrilling narrative set against the backdrop of the game's Soviet-futurist aesthetic. Early reception has been positive; players have lauded the visual depth and gameplay mechanics, with one user remarking, "Looks way more impressive than the previous two DLCs combined" (emeraldarcher678).
Game director Robert Bagratuni spoke about the design process of this DLC, stating, "The underwater space inspires fear, dark and unexplored." This creates atmospheric tension as players navigate through confines inhabited by aquatic robots and organic mutants. The location encapsulates the themes of fear and exploration, aiming to immerse gamers fully.
Fans of Atomic Heart will also witness the evolution of gameplay mechanics. The DLC introduces exciting new weaponry, such as the powerful hammer called Thunderer, and enhanced glove abilities allowing for dynamic combat and environmental interactions. Players can use the 'Flare' ability to hurl fireballs at enemies, providing both offensive options and path-clearing strategies.
Alongside action-packed gameplay, Enchantment Under the Sea delves headfirst with its narrative elements, exploring the character dynamic between P-3 and Nikolai, alongside the previously established characters. According to Bagratuni, “We had an irresistible desire to work with [Kyle Hill],” highlighting how Hill's expertise and persona helped shape Nikolai’s character. This collaboration offers players not just new content, but also fresh angles on the game's existing lore.
Thematically, the underwater complex mirrors elements akin to the iconic BioShock's Rapture, as players navigate through visually stunning underwater environments filled with perilous foes. Both the lore and dialogues within the game reference this influence, with phrases like, "A rapture!" echoing the sentiments players might recall from the BioShock universe.
With many expecting around five to six hours of gameplay, Enchantment Under the Sea promises significant content for both fans of the original game and newcomers. The pacing allows for exploration and engagement without overwhelming players with complex narratives, catering to various gameplay styles.
Overall, as Atomic Heart continues to receive post-launch support, this DLC sets the bar high, blending the pulse-pounding action, familiar characters, and enriched underwater narratives. Players are eager to see how these newly introduced elements will influence the larger world as they venture back once more to face the threats beneath the surface.
For those who have yet to experience this gripping extension of Atomic Heart, the launch of Enchantment Under the Sea marks not just the promise of new challenges, but also the promise of returning to the peculiar charm and chaos of the Atomic Heart universe. With such enriching content continuing to be unveiled, dedicated gamers have every reason to return.