One of the core design philosophies of Beneath is simple: scarcity creates fear.
In most action games, ammo is plentiful and reloading is just a reflex. But Beneath isn’t about mowing down hordes. It’s about deciding whether pulling the trigger is worth it - because every bullet you spend is a resource you may desperately need later.
Use these top tips to make it to the end of our Steam Next Fest Demo:
Why Scarcity Works
Horror isn’t just about monsters. It’s about helplessness, risk, and the dread of running out when you need something most. By limiting ammo, we’re asking you to:
Think strategically. Which fights are worth engaging? Which are better avoided?
Explore deeply. Ammo is hidden, not handed out. Every locker, crate, and wreck is a chance to survive.
Adapt constantly. Melee, tools, and stealth aren’t optional - they’re vital to making it out alive.
Our guiding principle: tough, but fair. You’ll never be “soft-locked” out of survival if you play smart. But if you’re careless, the abyss will punish you.
Three Quick Survival Tips
Search Everything. Never leave a room unchecked. Supplies hide in the least obvious places.
Don’t Kill What You Can Outrun. Stealth, distraction, and escape are valid strategies.
Use All Your Tools. Flares, melee weapons, and even environmental hazards can save precious bullets.
How You Can Help
When the Next Fest demo launches, we’ll be tracking your survival stories. Did you scrape through the final fight with a single bullet? Did you find a creative way to escape without firing a shot? Share your clips and survival tips in our Discord - we’ll feature the best in future posts.
Wishlist Beneath on Steam so you’re ready for when the floodgates open.