Atomic Heart DLC 3's Neptune Complex Explained
Atomic Heart’s third DLC, Enchantment Under the Sea, takes players underwater with the Neptune Complex, blending BioShock-inspired design with fresh gameplay mechanics.
Mundfish’s Atomic Heart has always kept players on edge with its eerie and atmospheric environments, but with the latest DLC, players are about to dive deeper—literally. The Enchantment Under the Sea DLC introduces the long-awaited Neptune Complex, an underwater research facility that brings Atomic Heart’s world to new depths. Fans have long speculated about this aquatic location, which has been referenced in the game’s lore, but now it’s finally accessible in the third DLC. The Neptune Complex has often been compared to BioShock’s iconic city of Rapture, and with good reason—Atomic Heart’s underwater city promises to bring its own terrifying and immersive experience to players.
In a conversation with Game Rant, game director Robert Bagratuni shared key details about the Neptune Complex, how it fits into Atomic Heart’s narrative, and the new mechanics that will make this DLC stand out.
Mundfish Brings the Depths to Life with New Gameplay Features
According to Bagratuni, the Neptune Complex DLC will span roughly 5-6 hours, offering players a fresh underwater location complete with new weapons, abilities, and movement options. The DLC will feature not only new environments and mechanics but also additional character interactions and story developments. Bagratuni explained that one of the design challenges was creating an immersive, believable underwater atmosphere that builds tension and fear—elements that players will experience firsthand as they navigate the dark, mysterious depths.
“Underwater space inspires fear in many people,” said Bagratuni. “It’s dark, unexplored territory, and it’s controlled by sea creatures, some of which can be truly terrifying. Players will experience moments under pressure, where the unknown and deadly can be lurking just out of sight. Our goal was to create an atmosphere where you feel like something big is watching you from the depths, and you’re constrained in your movement and abilities.”
While Atomic Heart introduced swimming mechanics through polymer traversal in the base game, the Neptune Complex DLC will expand this feature, allowing for more aquatic exploration and mechanics. This focus on underwater gameplay will set Enchantment Under the Sea apart from previous DLCs and the game’s main levels, offering an entirely new dimension to the Atomic Heart experience.
New Enemies, New Characters, and a Deadly New Threat
The Neptune Complex doesn’t just bring environmental changes—it also introduces new threats. One of the standout enemies revealed for this DLC is the MOR-4Y bot, a massive and deadly machine that lurks in the depths of the sea. Bagratuni described the MOR-4Y as a predator-like robot that dwarfs many of the previous enemies players have faced, and players will have to contend with its overwhelming power.
“Players will literally experience the concept of ‘There’s always a bigger fish,’” said Bagratuni. “The MOR-4Y is a formidable opponent that can destroy robots that previously posed a serious challenge to the player.”
Alongside new enemies, Enchantment Under the Sea introduces a new character: Nikolai, a roboticist who will be voiced by science YouTuber Kyle Hill. Bagratuni explained that the team had a strong desire to work with Hill, leading to the creation of a character that mirrors his likeness and voice. Fans can look forward to seeing how Nikolai fits into the story and how his character influences the narrative as players explore the Neptune Complex.
A Thrilling New Chapter in Atomic Heart’s World
With the Neptune Complex, Atomic Heart’s Enchantment Under the Sea DLC is poised to deliver a fresh, exciting chapter in the game’s story. The underwater city not only offers a fresh aesthetic and mechanics but also promises a more intense, claustrophobic atmosphere that will keep players on edge. Between the new threats, the expansion of aquatic gameplay, and the introduction of intriguing new characters, this DLC will undoubtedly raise the stakes in Atomic Heart’s world.
For fans of the game, Enchantment Under the Sea offers a deeper dive into the lore and gameplay, and it’s clear that Mundfish is committed to keeping the experience as thrilling and unpredictable as ever. Whether you’re looking to face terrifying new enemies, explore a haunting underwater city, or experience a fresh take on Atomic Heart’s mechanics, this DLC is set to push the game’s boundaries in exciting ways.