On Open Seas

On Open Seas is a two-in-one pirate-themed game package featuring ‘Hands On Deck’ – an arcade shoot ’em up where players battle enemy ships and collect resources – and ‘On Open Seas’ – an action RPG set in the Caribbean. Players experience naval combat, character progression, and high-seas strategy across both games, blending explosive ship battles with role-playing elements in a vibrant buccaneer setting.

On Open Seas: Review

In the vast ocean of indie gaming, few titles have managed to capture the essence of pirate adventure as authentically as “On Open Seas.” Developed by the small but ambitious studio HJO Creations, this game is a testament to the power of passion and the allure of the high seas. Released in July 2015, “On Open Seas” quickly became a cult classic, beloved by a niche audience for its unique blend of action, RPG elements, and a deep sense of maritime history. However, its journey has been fraught with challenges, from technological constraints to the ever-shifting tides of the gaming landscape. This review aims to delve into the depths of “On Open Seas,” examining its development history, narrative themes, gameplay mechanics, and its enduring legacy.

Development History & Context

Studio and Creators’ Vision

HJO Creations, a small indie studio based in France, was founded by a group of passionate gamers and developers who shared a love for pirate lore and historical adventure games. The studio’s vision for “On Open Seas” was to create an immersive experience that combined the thrill of naval combat with the depth of RPG character progression. The creators drew inspiration from classic pirate tales, historical accounts of maritime adventures, and the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean.

Technological Constraints and Era

Released in 2015, “On Open Seas” faced significant technological constraints. The gaming landscape at the time was dominated by high-budget AAA titles, and indie developers often struggled to compete. HJO Creations had to work with limited resources, relying on off-the-shelf engines and a small team of dedicated developers. Despite these challenges, the studio managed to create a game that stood out for its attention to detail and authentic portrayal of pirate life.

The gaming landscape in 2015 was characterized by a surge in indie titles, many of which focused on niche genres and unique gameplay mechanics. “On Open Seas” fit into this trend, offering players a fresh take on the pirate genre. The game’s release on multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS, further expanded its reach, allowing it to capture a diverse audience.

Narrative & Thematic Deep Dive

Plot and Characters

“On Open Seas” tells the story of a young pirate captain navigating the treacherous waters of the Caribbean in search of treasure and glory. The protagonist, Captain Elias, is a charismatic and cunning leader who must contend with rival pirates, treacherous seas, and the ever-present threat of mutiny. Along the way, Elias encounters a colorful cast of characters, including seasoned sailors, mysterious mermaids, and ruthless enemies.

The narrative is rich with historical detail, drawing on real-world events and legends to create a believable and immersive world. The game’s setting in the Caribbean allows it to explore themes of colonialism, exploration, and the struggle for power. The story is told through a series of cutscenes, in-game dialogue, and environmental storytelling, creating a cohesive and engaging experience.

Dialogue and Themes

The dialogue in “On Open Seas” is written with a keen ear for authenticity, capturing the rough and tumble language of pirates. The characters’ conversations are filled with historical references, pirate slang, and a healthy dose of humor. The game’s themes are equally rich, exploring the complexities of leadership, the allure of treasure, and the harsh realities of life at sea.

One of the game’s central themes is the struggle for power and control. Captain Elias must constantly navigate the political landscape of the pirate world, forging alliances and making enemies. The game also delves into the psychological aspects of leadership, exploring the challenges of maintaining authority in a world where loyalty is often in short supply.

Gameplay Mechanics & Systems

Core Gameplay Loops

“On Open Seas” features a variety of gameplay mechanics that keep players engaged. The core gameplay loop revolves around exploration, combat, and character progression. Players spend much of their time sailing the open seas, discovering hidden treasures, and engaging in naval battles. The game’s combat system is fast-paced and tactical, requiring players to manage their ship’s weapons, crew, and resources.

Combat and Character Progression

Combat in “On Open Seas” is a thrilling mix of strategy and action. Players must carefully manage their ship’s position, angle of attack, and weapon selection to gain the upper hand in battle. The game features a variety of ship types, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, adding depth to the combat experience.

Character progression is handled through a traditional RPG system, with players earning experience points and leveling up their crew members. Each character has unique skills and abilities, allowing players to customize their team to suit their playstyle. The game’s progression system is well-balanced, providing a steady stream of rewards and challenges.

UI and Innovative Systems

The user interface in “On Open Seas” is clean and intuitive, with all necessary information presented clearly. The game’s innovative systems include a dynamic weather system that affects gameplay, a day-night cycle that impacts enemy behavior, and a reputation system that tracks the player’s actions and reputation among the pirate community.

Flawed Systems

Despite its many strengths, “On Open Seas” is not without its flaws. The game’s AI can be unpredictable, sometimes leading to frustrating encounters with enemy ships. Additionally, the game’s difficulty curve can be steep, particularly for new players. However, these issues are minor and do not detract significantly from the overall experience.

World-Building, Art & Sound

Setting and Atmosphere

The world of “On Open Seas” is a beautifully realized recreation of the Caribbean during the Golden Age of Piracy. The game’s setting is filled with lush islands, hidden coves, and treacherous reefs. The atmosphere is further enhanced by dynamic weather effects, such as storms and fog, which add a sense of realism and unpredictability.

Visual Direction

The game’s visual direction is characterized by a stylized, cartoony aesthetic that pays homage to classic pirate lore. The character designs are detailed and expressive, capturing the rugged charm of pirate life. The environments are equally impressive, with meticulously crafted landscapes and detailed ship models.

Sound Design

The sound design in “On Open Seas” is top-notch, with a rich and immersive soundtrack that complements the game’s pirate theme. The sound effects are equally impressive, from the creaking of wooden ships to the roar of cannons. The voice acting is well-done, with each character bringing their unique personality to life.

Reception & Legacy

Critical and Commercial Reception

Upon its release, “On Open Seas” received mixed reviews from critics. While many praised the game’s unique setting, engaging combat, and rich narrative, others criticized its technical issues and steep learning curve. The game’s commercial performance was similarly mixed, with modest sales figures that reflected its niche appeal.

Evolution of Reputation

Over time, “On Open Seas” has gained a cult following among pirate enthusiasts and indie gaming fans. The game’s reputation has evolved, with many players appreciating its authenticity and attention to detail. The game’s legacy is further cemented by its influence on subsequent titles, inspiring a new generation of pirate-themed games.

Influence on Subsequent Games and the Industry

“On Open Seas” has had a significant impact on the gaming industry, particularly in the pirate genre. Its innovative gameplay mechanics, rich narrative, and authentic setting have inspired numerous titles, from indie darlings to AAA blockbusters. The game’s legacy can be seen in the continued popularity of pirate-themed games, which often draw on the same historical and cultural references.

Conclusion

“On Open Seas” is a remarkable achievement in indie gaming, offering a unique and immersive pirate adventure. Despite its technical flaws and mixed reception, the game has carved out a niche for itself, earning a dedicated following and leaving a lasting impact on the genre. Its rich narrative, engaging gameplay, and authentic setting make it a standout title in the world of video games. For those seeking a true pirate adventure, “On Open Seas” is a must-play experience.