Sword of the Sea emerges as Matt Nava returns to Journey's influence

Matt Nava's 'Sword of the Sea' blends surfing and exploration, debuting on August 19.

: Matt Nava's latest game, 'Sword of the Sea', emphasizes intuitive gameplay by allowing players to surf across sand dunes and explore ancient ruins. Players can charge jumps, perform tricks, and use sonic energy to interact with the environment, uncovering hidden treasures and completing puzzles along the way. Nava, the creative force behind Giant Squid, draws inspiration from his previous work on the renowned game 'Journey', returning to its vibrant aesthetics. Co-developed with Grammy-nominated composer Austin Wintory, the game promises dynamic musical progression that mirrors the player's journey.

“Sword of the Sea” marks the return of Matt Nava, the art director of Journey, to atmospheric adventure gaming. Developed by Giant Squid—the studio behind Abzû and The Pathless—the game is set to launch on August 19, 2025, as a PlayStation Plus title. It combines Nava's signature visual storytelling with new traversal-focused mechanics.

Players control a mysterious figure known as The Wraith, who rides a “hoversword” across vast, shifting seas of sand. The movement system draws inspiration from surfing and snowboarding, creating a meditative flow that feels both physical and spiritual. The Wraith’s mission is to restore life to a desolate world by awakening ancient "Ocean Seeds."

Exploration plays a central role. Water surfaces boost momentum, sea creatures act as dynamic terrain, and hidden “Trick Attack” zones reward stylish traversal. Players collect a currency called Tetra, which encourages venturing off the beaten path to unlock secrets and deepen immersion.

Combat is minimal but cinematic. Instead of traditional battles, players face massive leviathan-like entities in carefully choreographed encounters. These moments emphasize scale, rhythm, and mood—echoing games like Shadow of the Colossus more than typical action titles.

With its focus on serene exploration, fluid movement, and evocative design, Sword of the Sea stands as a spiritual successor to Journey. It expands on Nava’s artistic legacy while offering a distinct new experience rooted in the beauty of motion and discovery.

Sources: Engadget, PlayStation Blog, The Guardian, Push Square

gamingConsole GamingGame Development