Sword of the Sea: Essential Beginner Tips & Movement Guide - 2025

Sammy Schnor

13 Aug 2025 • 3 min read

Giant Squid's atmospheric surfing adventure launches August 19, 2025, bringing Tony Hawk-inspired movement to a mystical desert world. Master the Hoversword mechanics early to transform sand dunes into emerald seas in this spiritual successor to Journey.

Quick Answer/TLDR

To excel in Sword of the Sea: prioritize water surfaces for maximum speed, chain double-jump tricks with X button timing, collect Tetra triangles for essential upgrades, and explore off the main path for hidden Trick Attack arenas. Advanced tricks unlock with L1 + face buttons after purchasing from vendors.

Platform Requirements & Game Details

Platforms: PlayStation 5, PC (Steam)
Release Date: August 19, 2025
PlayStation Plus: Available Day One on Game Catalog
Developer: Giant Squid (ABZÛ, The Pathless)
Game Length: Estimated 6-8 hours (main story)

Mastering the Hoversword: Core Movement Mechanics

The Hoversword combines snowboard, skateboard, and surfboard mechanics into one fluid system. Understanding surface interactions is crucial:

Surface Speed Hierarchy

Water (Fastest): Provides maximum acceleration and maintains momentum
Sand Dunes: Medium speed with natural wave patterns
Ruins/Structures: Variable speed but excellent for grinding
Ceramic Rooftops: Unique haptic feedback with melodic tones

Basic Controls Guide

Left Stick: Direction control
X Button: Jump (press again mid-air for double-jump tricks)
L1 + Face Buttons: Advanced tricks (after purchasing)
R2: Acceleration boost (contextual)

Essential Trick System Guide

Beginner Tricks (Available from Start)

Double Jump Tricks: Press X while airborne for automatic trick variations
Basic Spins: Rotate left stick during jumps
Grinds: Land on edges or rails to automatically grind

Advanced Tricks (Vendor Purchases Required)

L1 + Triangle: Special grab variant 1
L1 + Square: Special grab variant 2
L1 + Circle: Advanced flip
L1 + X: Signature spin move

Combo System Tips

Combine grabs with flips for unique trick variations
Perfect timing on advanced tricks provides jump boost
Chain different trick types to maximize score multipliers
Land cleanly to maintain combo streak

Ocean Seeds & Environmental Interactions

Ocean Seeds serve as the primary progression mechanic, transforming the barren landscape:

Activating Ocean Seeds

Approach glowing nodes in the environment
Press the interaction button when prompted
Watch as sand transforms into water
New pathways and marine life appear

Marine Life Interactions

Jellyfish: Act as natural jump pads for increased height
Seaweed Strands: Climbable vertical paths to reach hidden areas
Fish Schools: Follow their patterns to discover secret routes

Currency & Progression System

Tetra Triangles: The Primary Currency

Golden triangular collectibles scattered throughout the world
Found both on main paths and in hidden locations
Higher concentrations in challenging off-path areas

Vendor Purchase Priority

First Priority: Basic advanced tricks (L1 + face button moves)
Second Priority: Movement speed upgrades
Third Priority: Jump height/distance improvements
Optional: Cosmetic upgrades and special effects

Hidden Content & Exploration Tips

Trick Attack Arenas

Hidden challenge areas designed for high-score runs
Look for halfpipe structures and ramp formations
Complete challenges to unlock exclusive rewards
Score thresholds typically have bronze, silver, gold tiers

Environmental Storytelling Elements

Ancient Murals: Reveal backstory of the lost civilization
Sinking Tombs: Contain powerful upgrades and lore fragments
Ruins Layout: Often designed as ancient skate parks

Pro Movement Strategies

Speed Maintenance Techniques

Wave Reading: Follow the natural flow of dunes for optimal speed
Momentum Conservation: Minimize sharp turns to maintain velocity
Jump Timing: Launch from wave crests for maximum distance
Water Routing: Always prioritize water paths when available

Wall Riding: Use vertical surfaces to maintain height and discover secrets
Edge Transfers: Jump between grindable surfaces without touching ground
Marine Life Chains: Combo jellyfish bounces for extreme altitude

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Ignoring Water Paths: The speed difference is significant for progression
Rushing Through Areas: Exploration rewards patience with Tetra and upgrades
Neglecting Trick Practice: High scores unlock important progression items
Saving Tetra Too Long: Early trick purchases dramatically improve gameplay
Missing Environmental Cues: Murals and ruins often point to hidden areas

PS5 DualSense Features

PlayStation 5 players enjoy enhanced immersion through:

Haptic Feedback: Each surface type has unique tactile sensations
Adaptive Triggers: Resistance changes based on speed and terrain
Controller Speaker: Surface-specific sound effects enhance immersion
3D Audio: Spatial awareness helps locate hidden areas

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Sword of the Sea worth buying in 2025?

For fans of atmospheric adventures and unique movement mechanics, absolutely. The day-one PlayStation Plus inclusion makes it risk-free for subscribers.

How long does it take to complete Sword of the Sea?

Main story completion takes approximately 6-8 hours. Full exploration with all collectibles extends playtime to 12-15 hours.

Can you miss collectibles in Sword of the Sea?

The game features chapter select after completion, allowing return visits to collect missed Tetra triangles and discover secrets.

Is there multiplayer in Sword of the Sea?

Sword of the Sea is a single-player experience focused on atmospheric exploration and personal discovery.

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Master Sword of the Sea's unique surfing mechanics with this comprehensive guide. From basic movement to advanced trick combos, transform the Necropolis into a thriving ocean world when the game launches August 19, 2025.