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About Vessel
Vessel puts players in the role of Arkwright, a creator who can animate ordinary matter to combat liquid machines that have overtaken a world of relentless progress. The game’s core revolves around a sophisticated liquid simulation where water, lava, steam, chemicals, glowing goo and a mysterious protoplasm interact.
Players solve puzzles by shaping and combining these liquids, summoning “Fluro” creatures made entirely of fluid, and upgrading equipment with protoplasm. The experience spans over ten hours across multiple worlds, featuring a 2D‑hand‑drawn‑plus‑3D visual style and a full soundtrack by Jon Hopkins.
01 / THE GUIDE
Liquid Simulation
Vessel’s gameplay is built on an optimized simulation that handles flowing water, scalding lava, steam, reactive chemicals, glowing goo and the unique protoplasm. Each liquid behaves according to its real‑world properties and can mix with others for dramatic effects.
The simulation is not merely decorative; it underpins every puzzle and interaction. Players must consider how liquids combine, how temperature changes affect them, and how their physical behavior influences the environment.
- Observe how liquids react before combining them.
- Use slower‑moving fluids to test outcomes safely.
02 / THE GUIDE
Fluro Creatures
Fluros are entities formed entirely from simulated liquid, inheriting the properties of their source fluid. A Fluro made of lava can melt, while one of goo can absorb or explode, creating varied tactical options.
Players interact with Fluros by dropping, luring, or chasing them, using the liquid’s behavior to solve puzzles. Their unique abilities stem directly from the liquid they embody.
- Match Fluro type to the puzzle’s required effect.
- Watch how Fluros change when exposed to other liquids.
03 / THE GUIDE
Equipment Upgrades
Scattered protoplasm liquid can be harvested to upgrade Arkwright’s gear, granting new ways to manipulate liquids. Upgrades expand the range of actions available for puzzle solving and combat against liquid machines.
These enhancements are tied to the mysterious protoplasm, reinforcing its role as both a resource and a narrative element.
- Prioritize upgrades that complement your preferred liquid.
- Track where protoplasm appears for efficient upgrades.
04 / THE GUIDE
Hybrid Visual Style
The game blends 2D hand‑drawn textures with 3D normal maps, lighting and depth, creating a distinct other‑worldly aesthetic. Detailed machines and environments showcase this combination, enhancing immersion.
This hybrid approach supports the liquid‑driven gameplay, making the physical simulations visible and intuitive for players.
- Notice how lighting highlights liquid movement.
- Appreciate texture details that indicate fluid type.
05 / THE GUIDE
Audio Experience
Jon Hopkins provides a full‑length electronic soundtrack that underscores the game’s puzzles and liquid transformations. The music underscores the tension of puzzles and the awe of liquid transformations.
The soundtrack’s integration adds an atmospheric layer, reinforcing the game’s themes of invention and chaos.
- Listen for musical cues during complex puzzles.
- Adjust volume to balance sound effects and music.
COMMUNITY
Player discussion