Dredge

Fishing mystery with Lovecraft horror and Tetris inventory. One of the things that makes this game good to play is that the boating controls are actually nice and easy and straightforward, so if you crash into something it's because you're zooming around too carelessly (which I did a lot anyway).

If you haven't played it, play it. It's more than a fishing game, There's a mystery to unravel as you explore a substantially large area of sea dotted with islands. It can go from feeling somewhat spooky with strange happenings everywhere, to somehow being relaxing and beautiful too. Fishing at night is dangerous, but also sometimes needed, so you must manage your sleep/sanity, otherwise you will start hallucinating. Eventually you'll be able to drege things up for upgrades to your vessel and equipment, possibly some special artifacts that someone seems pretty desperate to get their hands on... I would call it a more casual game for gameplay, but that's a complement in this case. Fishing and Dredging is simple, the challenge comes from managing your inventory and time before nightfall or sleeping. Probably won't be for the uber hardcore, but if you're looking for a game to just relax and explore with a little creepy fun thrown in there, this is for you.

This friggin' game is awesome. Part fishing simulator, part lovecraftian nightmare -- this game is equal parts relaxing and casual and cerebral and challenging. I got so excited about the game I'm trying to 100% the achievements -- collecting all the different fish from the biomes, completing all the DLC adventures, side quests, experimenting with all the gear and artifacts, etc. Upgrading your boat and exploring new areas is fun and exciting. Unlocking new mysteries and finding new quests is always fun and it seems there is always something to do -- I stayed up waaaay two late two nights in a row I got so engrossed. The game has a "pokemon" aspect (gotta catch all the fish!) with abberations and exotic versions of some of them to make the hunt more exciting and engrossing. Interesting places and threats. Powers, tools and equipment to suit your playstyle -- and the calm of going on a fishing adventure always punctuated with a monstrous horror when you least expect it. Dredge, although I did almost everything there is to do in about 40 game hours -- will likely be one of my great loves and all time favorites in gaming, and hope for more DLC in the future. I recommend this game for anyone looking for a refreshing change from the regular grinds and distinct genres out on the steam store. Dredge is it's own thing and is does what it sets out to do elegantly and enjoyingly. From humble squid fishing in a rickety boat to finding nightmare giant fish in a massive armored trawler, the progression and the journey was as fun as the game was in the moment. I am hard pressed to criticize it. It's just a diamond I'm glad I found. highly recommended. It stole my heart.