A Unique Blend of Genres

Prepare for a game that’s unlike anything you’ve played before! Ambrosia Sky, showcased at the 2025 Summer Game Fest, is daring to blend elements of Metroid Prime with the cozy charm of PowerWash Simulator.

Behind the Scenes at Soft Rains

Developed by the fresh-faced Soft Rains studio—composed of industry veterans from Skyrim, Fallout 4, and Valorant—Ambrosia Sky tells the poignant tale of a female protagonist, Dalia, returning to her alien-infested homeworld, reminiscent of Samus’s daring returns to Zebes. But here’s the twist: instead of your typical arsenal, Dalia wields a water gun to tackle a mysterious, hostile fungus overtaking her planet.

Beneath the Surface: A Heartfelt Mission

While it might sound like a whimsical cleaning adventure, Ambrosia Sky dives deeper. Players will partake in funeral rites for Dalia’s former friends, uncovering stories through environmental storytelling. My brief gameplay experience left a profound impression, making it clear that this mission is as heartbreaking as it is immersive.

Crafting an Emotional Landscape

In an exclusive chat with Soft Rains studio director Joel Burgess, he emphasized the team's commitment to creating an experience that resonates emotionally: 'We want to craft a futuristic narrative that speaks to today's anxieties, rather than leaning heavily on nostalgic references.' This is a game where emotional depth meets engaging gameplay.

Satisfying Cleanup Mechanic

From what I experienced, the cleaning mechanics are just as satisfying as any well-crafted game in this genre. Watching fungus dissolve under the water beam was immensely rewarding. During the demo, I unlocked abilities like a flame shooter and an electricity-conducive spray, enhancing the gameplay experience further.

A Haunting Soundtrack

As I navigated this beautifully crafted universe, the synth-heavy soundtrack propelled my journey. Greg Harrison, the composer, meticulously designed a score reflective of the game’s intergalactic setting, incorporating culturally significant instruments like the jaw harp, which is considered universal across many cultures.

Aiming for Originality

Burgess shared that while literary inspirations from authors like Jeff VanderMeer and Andy Weir influenced development, the team is focused on originality. 'We don’t want to just pay homage,' he clarified. They are passionate about carving their unique niche in gaming.

The Future of Ambrosia Sky

Will Ambrosia Sky succeed in revolutionizing the gaming landscape? Only time will tell. While exact release details remain under wraps, one thing is certain: this project is one to watch. With its ambitious fusion of gameplay styles and emotional depth, Ambrosia Sky might just take players on an unforgettable journey.