Neva is a painterly action adventure from Nomada Studio about Alba and a young wolf crossing a dying world together.
Neva is an action-adventure game developed by Nomada Studio and published by Devolver Digital. Released in 2024, it follows Alba after a violent encounter leaves her bonded to an orphaned wolf cub. Their journey moves through a world being consumed by a spreading corruption, using seasonal changes to show both the landscape's decline and the growing trust between the two companions.
The game builds on the wordless storytelling approach Nomada Studio used in Gris, but gives its central relationship a more direct narrative shape. Alba begins as the protector, guiding the wolf through danger and grief, while the animal gradually becomes a more capable partner. The story is told through movement, framing, color, and animation rather than dialogue-heavy scenes.
Neva combines side-scrolling traversal, platforming, puzzle-like environmental navigation, and combat encounters. Alba can jump, climb, strike enemies with her sword, dodge attacks, and call the wolf to help with movement or attacks as their bond develops. The design stays relatively compact, emphasizing readable challenges and expressive set pieces over complex upgrade systems.
The game's presentation is its clearest signature. Backgrounds shift between lush natural spaces, stark silhouettes, and corrupted spaces filled with dark, mask-like forms. The animation gives the wolf a changing physical presence across the adventure, while the score and sound design support the game's melancholic tone without breaking its quiet style.
Neva was widely recognized for its art direction, animation, and emotional atmosphere. Its awards profile includes wins for Artistic Achievement at the British Academy Games Awards and Games for Impact at The Game Awards, alongside nominations from D.I.C.E., the Game Developers Choice Awards, the New York Game Awards, and The Game Awards in visual art, independent game, and social impact categories.