New 2.5D Shooter Sub-Species Takes Players Into Alien-Filled Seas

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Independent studio Howling Hamster Entertainment has announced Sub-Species, a 2.5D shooter set deep in Earth’s oceans after a deadly alien outbreak. The reveal came with a new trailer that shows off a dark, tight underwater world inspired by classic arcade shooters and sci-fi horror.

In Sub-Species, you control a heavily armed submarine that can rotate freely in all directions. This full 360-degree movement is key, as danger can come from anywhere in the deep. Each mission pushes you farther into infected ocean zones filled with hostile creatures, broken structures, and strange alien technology left behind after the outbreak.

Gameplay mixes fast combat with careful movement, light puzzles, and smart use of limited resources. Players must squeeze through narrow tunnels, shut down unstable reactors, and search the remains of lost expeditions, all while fighting off growing waves of enemies. Survival depends on using the right tools at the right time, such as flares to light the way, mines to control space, and quick dodge moves to escape danger.

The game takes inspiration from titles like Sub-Terrania and Ecco the Dolphin, as well as films and documentaries such as The Abyss and The Blue Planet. These influences come together in a moody underwater setting that feels alive and unpredictable. The hand-built locations range from military bases to strange alien caverns, creating a sense of constant tension and discovery.

Sub-Species is currently in development for PC and will launch on Steam. A playable demo is planned to arrive soon.