Dive into the Alien Depths of Sub-Species with a New Demo on Steam
Independent studio Howling Hamster Entertainment has released a demo for Sub-Species, its upcoming 2.5D multidirectional action-adventure shooter set beneath Earth’s oceans following a devastating alien outbreak.
Available now on PC via Steam, the demo gives players their first hands-on opportunity to experience the game’s distinctive 360° submarine movement, environmental navigation, and steadily building tension.
In Sub-Species, players pilot a heavily armed submarine capable of rotating freely in all directions, navigating claustrophobic caverns, abandoned structures, and alien-infested zones. Combat is shaped by visibility, positioning, and momentum, requiring players to read the space around them and adapt under pressure.
The demo introduces the world of Sub-Species through environmental storytelling, mission context, and the spaces players explore. The goal is to establish tone and intrigue, hinting at a wider mystery beneath the ocean’s surface while leaving much of the narrative to be uncovered in the full game.
“We wanted the demo to feel like a complete experience, not just a tutorial,” said Creative Director Manus Burke.
“It’s designed to let players feel the weight of the submarine, the tension of navigating hostile spaces, and how combat unfolds when every direction matters.By the end, you should have a real sense of what Sub-Species is about - and why going deeper is both tempting and dangerous.”
Drawing inspiration from titles such as Sub-Terrania and Ecco the Dolphin, alongside cinematic deep-sea sci-fi, Sub-Species blends retro-inspired precision with a modern sense of atmosphere.
KEY DEMO FEATURES
Two-Level Vertical Slice - A complete demo experience lasting 25-40 minutes, showcasing both onboarding and core gameplay.
Adapt & Survive - A first level focused on movement and navigation, followed by a second level that introduces combat, pressure, and hostile encounters.
Combat Shaped by Space - Encounters that emphasise positioning, visibility, and anticipation rather than overwhelming enemy numbers.
Environmental Interaction - Salvage wrecks, move objects, and navigate complex spaces using the level map and spatial awareness.
Atmosphere-Driven Storytelling - Subtle narrative hints delivered through environments, objectives, and exploration rather than direct exposition.