Proteus (PlayStation 3) Review

Relying on a minimalistic, pixel art approach, Proteus introduces a colourful and lively island to explore. Each island is created procedurally, which means no two islands are the same, although certain locations can be found on every island. Interactivity with the inhabitants is limited; players can only walk around, sit, or take screenshots.

At the start, spring is in the air and exploration is the first step. Vibrant vegetation lines the shore along with rows of stones all leading to one central point on the island. Many different structures can be found, ranging from graveyards to statues and even a lonely cabin. These places do not serve much of a purpose in-game, although looking for a purpose might defeat the point of it.

Music accompanies every action in Proteus. Whether it's chasing a frog or approaching a cathedral, the game's music adjusts accordingly. Animals tend to give off a little jingle, whereas season changing can introduce dramatic changes. Music is fluid, and stringing together melodies by following animals and walking through a forest can be an entrancing experience.

Progression is achieved by changing the seasons. On each island is a circle of rocks. At night, dots of light start swirling inside this circle. Moving towards the centre will rapidly advance the day/night cycle, and entering the very centre will change the season. Spring is bright and cheerful, summer is full of life and sounds, fall is beautiful but fading, and winter is the end.