The term “friendslop” is an internet neologism a blend word that combines “friend” and “slop” (low quality food or digital filler). But what does friendslop actually mean when applied to video games?
In gaming, it refers to titles that might seem chaotic or structurally simple compared to massive RPGs or complex strategy games, but are incredibly fun because they focus entirely on multiplayer coop experiences. They are games designed specifically to be enjoyed with your close circle of friends, where the joy of cooperative gameplay and shared chaos outweighs traditional narrative structures.
Over the past few months, Steam has seen a massive influx of friendslop games, each bringing a unique twist to the genre. However, the upcoming release of S.O.N.A.R. (Submarine Operators Not Actually Ready) developed by Abylight Barcelona stands out from the crowd. While it shares some DNA with this emerging genre, it also introduces unique elements that set it apart.
Key Features of Friendslop Games (and How S.O.N.A.R. Fits In)
What makes a game fit the friendslop formula? Here are the core elements of the genre and how S.O.N.A.R. adapts them:
Co-op Multiplayer Gameplay
At their core, these titles are defined by their multiplayer design, allowing multiple users to interact simultaneously. Players must work together to complete objectives, solve puzzles, or defeat enemies. S.O.N.A.R. embraces this fully by offering chaotic 1 to 4 player online coop. You can play by yourself, but the experience is best enjoyed with friends.
Proximity Voice Chat & Emotes
Effective communication is key to surviving the chaos. These games rely heavily on built-in voice chat systems and funny character emotes. Often, a well timed gesture or physical expression ingame is far more descriptive (and hilarious) than anything you could say over your headset.
Physics-Based Comedy and Physical Interactions
The secret sauce of any great friendslop multiplayer game is its physical interactions. Depending on the game, this can range from sharing items and throwing objects to slapping your teammate to snap them out of panic. This physics based comedy is a massive generator of unscripted, funny moments, and it is a feature we have proudly integrated into the gameplay of S.O.N.A.R.
Why S.O.N.A.R. is not your typical friendslop game
While it embraces the fun of the genre, many unique elements set S.O.N.A.R. apart from other friendslop titles.
Perhaps the most obvious difference is the setting. The game takes place entirely inside a modern combat submarine. This unique environment features numerous interactive stations—including helm control, depth management, damage diagnostics, and torpedo launching. Each station completely shifts the gameplay, requiring players to constantly adapt.
Deep Tactical Co-op and High-Stakes Campaign Missions
Unlike standard multiplayer party games, S.O.N.A.R. demands precise coordination to complete its campaign missions. A single chain of mistakes can quickly send your crew to the bottom of the ocean. Players must constantly manage real time threats, including:
- Navigational collisions
- Enemy fire
- Depleting oxygen levels
- Water leaks and hull breaches
- Sudden onboard fires
This constant danger forces your squad to stay alert, monitoring both the submarine’s critical systems and their own survival.
The Perfect Balance: Casual Chaos vs. Serious Submarine Simulator
Ultimately, S.O.N.A.R. offers the best of both worlds. It can be played as a hilarious, casual friendslop game where you just laugh at the chaos with friends, or it can be approached with absolute focus.
For players seeking a challenge, it transforms into a highly tactical submarine simulator. You can coordinate seriously with your crew to complete missions with the highest possible rating, level up your rank, and unlock advanced gear to aid you in future underwater operations.
