Your controller has been underutilizing itself for years – rumble only for explosions, no rumble for anything else. Buzzer with buttons. Tathvamasi Studios wants to give your controller a much-needed upgrade. The first video game by the studio is SURI: The Seventh Note, which will be available on PlayStation 5 and PC (Steam) starting from October 30th. The concept is rather straightforward and catchy: an audio-based platformer that you play not only by listening and watching but also by feeling, using the rumble of your DualSense controller.
Also read: Minecraft is getting a new dimension after 14 years and gamers are excited
In theory, SURI is a rhythm action platform game. But in actuality, the rhythm is the very world of the game. The player controls Ajira, a girl trying to rescue her mother from a dark illness. The only cure lies in a mysterious fruit growing on an island which is split into pieces due to the corruption of its rhythm. The environment changes depending on the rhythm, thus the timing is the main focus of the gameplay.
For such concept implementation, the developers created a Rhythm Haptics Engine. It allows to experience the game’s rhythms through three senses – you can hear it, see it, and feel it. On the PS5, it is implemented through the DualSense controller. A pure melody should be perceived differently from a corrupted rhythm by the player’s hands.
For the most part, games use the haptics of the DualSense to sprinkle some flavor into the experience. However, for SURI, they are used as a third language. Imagine yourself playing a rhythm game without even seeing the screen but staying in time. This is what SURI has been striving for. Haptics can be experienced on PC as well, meaning that everyone gets to enjoy the concept.
Also read: GTA 6 Collector’s Edition details are here: All you need to know
The development studio hails from Bengaluru and SURI falls under the PlayStation India Hero Project. The graphics are inspired by the Rajput forts and the vigour of Theyyam which is different from the typical backdrop seen in most video games. Fantasy worlds usually get their inspiration from three castles.
The CEO and the Game Director, Glen Martin stated that the development of the game was a period of almost three years and it would not have been possible without the backing of the Hero Project. The team has released its first game ever.
Standard Edition costs about Rs 1300 and comes with the base game. PS5 owners will enjoy a 20 percent discount on pre-orders.
Digital Deluxe Edition is priced at Rs 2000. With this premium price tag, you will receive the Chandini skin, access to upcoming DLC content, and three days of early access beginning from October 27. The skin is exclusive to the Deluxe Edition and cannot be purchased separately, thus if you want to have it, there is only one way out. Both editions offer the PS5 pre-order discount. Prices mentioned here are in USD, please refer to the PlayStation Store for exact prices in your region.
Also read: Ghost of Yotei Complete Edition is coming October 1: All that is new