DAVE THE DIVER

 PC
User Score
7.1

Mixed or average reviews- based on 226 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 143 out of 226
  2. Mixed: 34 out of 226
  3. Negative: 49 out of 226

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  1. ZeekZeon
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    One of the best game I played in 2023. Perfect mixture of minigames, adventure and tycoon. Very addictive and characters are very very charming.
  2. FlameHaze10
    Jul 3, 2023
    10
    Pros:
    - Gameplay
    - Characters
    - Ridiculous Story
    - Artsyle
    - Cutscenes
    - Bancho you beautiful man

    Cons:
    - Lionfishes at night

    Verdict:
    - Dave is good. Be like Dave.
  3. Dag8
    Jul 3, 2023
    10
    I am not a gamer but I fell in love with this game since one my friend became a big fan of it. It was even hard for me to decide to start playing something but once I started it i fell right into it. Played hours and didnt get tired of it. It provides detailed little joy to every chapter. Strongly recommend it to play.
  4. Gofrein
    Jul 1, 2023
    10
    Best game and GOTY 2023. No jokes. This is the real GEM.
    After such a trash games like dibalo4, this is an ambrosia.
  5. Luar35
    Jul 4, 2023
    10
    I found the game very fun and with a lot of content and it looks very good.
  6. createje
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    This game has very good

    The various contents and BGM were so good. I got a little bored in the fish village, but I got over it and went to the next chapter, so I was able to enjoy it again.
  7. markoul
    Jul 11, 2023
    10
    I don't believe anything can surpass Dave the Diver in 2023.

    Truly, the indie GOTY of 2023.
  8. DavidFCorreia
    Jul 3, 2023
    10
    This is one of the best games I ever played. What a incredible journey this is!! For me a real GOTY contender!
  9. Chrizical
    Jul 3, 2023
    9
    a beautiful game one of few where you can tell the publishers had fun making it, so do i playing it
  10. Pancakemaster
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. One of the best games i have played in the last few years. Tons of things to do, no rush to complete the story, lots of side quests and story lines. I have been addicted since i got this. cant wait to see what else the devs add to the game.… Expand
  11. TheSHChronicles
    Jul 8, 2023
    9
    Dave the Diver is an exceptional game as it combines addictive gameplay, stunning graphics, and a captivating underwater world that will keep you hooked for hours. The only thing lacking, for me, is a more extensive storyline. But, don't let that stop you from diving in and experiencing the thrilling adventure that this game has to offer!

    Our Full Review:    Dave the Diver is an exceptional game as it combines addictive gameplay, stunning graphics, and a captivating underwater world that will keep you hooked for hours. The only thing lacking, for me, is a more extensive storyline. But, don't let that stop you from diving in and experiencing the thrilling adventure that this game has to offer!

    Our Full Review:
    https://www.theshchronicles.com/post/dave-the-diver    … Expand
  12. Pionator
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    GOTY indie of the year, en este juego tienes un montón de cosas que hacer y así como vas jugando cada vez te da mas y mas por hacer. El apartado artístico la historia es increíble y muy enriquecedora.
  13. True_Nerd
    Jul 5, 2023
    10
    The main character is very ugly, but that has its own charm. It's fun, so I'm giving it a high score, but please, let's make the character pretty
  14. Spamax
    Jul 6, 2023
    10
    Dave the Diver is a solo RPG and casual adventure game that plunges players into the depths of the ocean, offering a captivating experience of exploration and discovery. With a unique blend of daytime fishing and nighttime sushi restaurant management, the game features a variety of enjoyable mechanics and an intriguing narrative that keeps players immersed for hours on end.

    The story of    Dave the Diver is a solo RPG and casual adventure game that plunges players into the depths of the ocean, offering a captivating experience of exploration and discovery. With a unique blend of daytime fishing and nighttime sushi restaurant management, the game features a variety of enjoyable mechanics and an intriguing narrative that keeps players immersed for hours on end.

    The story of Dave the Diver is a true gem in this genre. Players are invited to join Dave, the charismatic protagonist, and his quirky friends as they uncover the secrets of the mysterious Blue Abyss. The plot is filled with thrilling twists and moments of great emotional impact, keeping players engaged from start to finish. The narrative is skillfully crafted, and each character has their own story and personality, making the journey even more compelling.

    Visually, Dave the Diver is a feast for the eyes. Despite being a 2D game, the graphics and animations are stunning, with intricate details and vibrant colors. The underwater environments are beautifully rendered, conveying a sense of depth and mystery. The visual effects are spectacular, especially during fishing moments and while preparing sushi in the restaurant. The soundtrack perfectly complements the game's atmosphere, immersing players in a complete experience.    … Expand
  15. speedwagonn
    Jul 7, 2023
    9
    This game has very good vibes, it's a very therapeutic game to just relax to. It's not really as tedious as some of the comments are suggesting.
  16. MetacriticOnur
    Jul 7, 2023
    8
    excellent
    [ ek-suh-luhnt ]

    adjective
    possessing outstanding quality or superior merit; remarkably good.
  17. dubesor
    Jul 14, 2023
    9
    A fun, charming and sometimes goofy diving SIM & light arcady restaurant manager.
    I was enjoying this one a lot, there are quite a lot of mechanics unlocking as you progress through the story. Playthrough takes around 30 hours, double this for completionists who want to max everything.
    At the end game it can overstay its welcome since some minigames take way longer than the story to    A fun, charming and sometimes goofy diving SIM & light arcady restaurant manager.
    I was enjoying this one a lot, there are quite a lot of mechanics unlocking as you progress through the story. Playthrough takes around 30 hours, double this for completionists who want to max everything.
    At the end game it can overstay its welcome since some minigames take way longer than the story to complete. There are some missing QoL features for certain locations that I won't mention to keep it spoiler free. Overall it has minor flaws but is a very good game regardless.    … Expand
  18. Neoptolemus0925
    Jul 2, 2023
    10
    NEXON does not have the best reputation, but for this once, they deserve credit for creating the MINTROCKET to support the development team behind this amazing game.
  19. roozbehfocus
    Jul 2, 2023
    10
    just Amazing Game i really enjoying..
    Story...Gameplay..everything is fantastic
  20. dolbung
    Jul 7, 2023
    9
    as a pixel game lover, dave the diver was the best pixel game i've ever seen.

    if you love pixel-and healing game?
    play it!!
  21. arianiLeep
    Jul 1, 2023
    10
    Fantastic mixture of management sim and underwater adventure that you never thought you would want. Each elements are not too deep but well balanced. It's the best value you can get with $20.
  22. unisoft
    Jul 4, 2023
    10
    It's the most fun game I've ever played this year.
    I hope to meet this game at the GOTY 2023. really good game.
  23. Ectomorph
    Jul 19, 2023
    8
    If you want to see the full potential of the game, be patient. The game starts slow and hides many mechanics. To a point where you start questioning yourself, if the current is all the game has to offer. Keep completing quests and the game reveals more and more fun game mechanics for you. This is also my main criticism. Too many mechanics at the beginning can be overwhelming and revealingIf you want to see the full potential of the game, be patient. The game starts slow and hides many mechanics. To a point where you start questioning yourself, if the current is all the game has to offer. Keep completing quests and the game reveals more and more fun game mechanics for you. This is also my main criticism. Too many mechanics at the beginning can be overwhelming and revealing too much too early may also spoil the fun, but the game could do a better job at teasing what lies ahead.… Expand
  24. Netero
    Aug 24, 2023
    10
    Zelda + Metroid + Eco the Dolphin = Dave the Diver = GOTY 2023 !
    Super fun game with A LOT of new ideas
  25. Eisbeutel
    Jul 23, 2023
    10
    one of the most varied genre mixes I played in recent years. most recommended!
  26. Lolchen
    Jul 19, 2023
    10
    Um dos melhores jogos que ja vi , sempre tendo novas mecânicas ao decorrer do jogo muito viciante
  27. ninhaterv
    Aug 10, 2023
    9
    It is a very interesting game, with many mechanics, it could be better with time to make the sushi and give it more importance but otherwise it is an excellent fun game that even my grandmother would like
  28. Tacco1306
    Aug 13, 2023
    8
    Its a nice summer-game with a nice story. After 14 hours i had enough because of the mermaids.
  29. Vaerik
    Jul 18, 2023
    9
    TLDR: EXCELLENT game. Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys adventure/simulator games with RPG and Rogue-like elements.

    It's impossible to describe how good this game is without spoiling things. So, I'll avoid talking about the innumerable hidden delights and just mention the basic concepts: The Premise: Dave is an adorable oaf of an everyman who loves scuba-diving. His old friend    TLDR: EXCELLENT game. Highly recommended to anyone who enjoys adventure/simulator games with RPG and Rogue-like elements.

    It's impossible to describe how good this game is without spoiling things. So, I'll avoid talking about the innumerable hidden delights and just mention the basic concepts:

    The Premise: Dave is an adorable oaf of an everyman who loves scuba-diving. His old friend Cobra calls him up to help run a new sushi restaurant with Cobra's enigmatic artist of a chef friend, Bancho. Using Cobra's money-sense (and his boat), Bancho's insane cooking abilities, and Dave's affable willingness to dive ever deeper into the Big Blue Hole, you catch fish, sharks, squid, and other assorted sea-life from around the globe in effort to fill Bancho's need to prepare ever-more-wild dishes! Eventually, this venture becomes too big to handle on your own, but it's a good thing you have friends to help you out.

    The Mechanics: You begin with a harpoon and hunt for fish. Later, you get more and more weapons and gadgets, the fish get more and more challenging, and the dives go deeper and deeper. When you emerge from the 'Hole, there's a restaurant to run in the evenings. Managing your profits vs. the tastiness (popularity) of dishes, serving drinks, clearing dishes, and hosting VIPs and special parties! This game just keeps adding more and more new game mechanics as it goes, and it never seems overwhelming--but it does walk that line. It's an amazing feat and the design team should be proud. I cannot recommend this game enough.

    When I'm writing this, the game is priced at $20 US, but it's a steal at twice the price. Highly recommend.    … Expand
  30. troublefete
    Jul 31, 2023
    10
    le meilleur jeu de l''année 2023 pour moi ( en attendant starfield et baldur's gate )
    La boucle de gameplay est parfaite le scénario sympa et les graphismes géniaux
    un must have !
  31. max1c
    Jul 22, 2023
    8
    It's an alright game. It has good gameplay, good music, and good art. The story is beyond terrible though with thousands of lines of worthless text. I also don't appreciate casual racism present in this game.
  32. Nikotoh
    Aug 13, 2023
    9
    Dave The Diver is an underwater gem of game design. Players are treated to a harmonious blend of exploration, collection, side quests, and a restaurant simulator. Each element not only complements the others but also contributes to an infinitely satisfying and addictive gameplay loop. What's even more remarkable is the constant influx of new mechanics and content, ensuring the game feelsDave The Diver is an underwater gem of game design. Players are treated to a harmonious blend of exploration, collection, side quests, and a restaurant simulator. Each element not only complements the others but also contributes to an infinitely satisfying and addictive gameplay loop. What's even more remarkable is the constant influx of new mechanics and content, ensuring the game feels fresh, invigorating, and rewarding from the first splash to the very last dive. It's more than just great; it's a marine masterpiece.… Expand
  33. gingersnap225
    Sep 2, 2023
    8
    Dave the Diver is cute and a game that is definitely worth playing. Very charming. It gives me hope that in a time where AAA games are on the decline that there will once again be the rise of the Indie game. The characters are endearing. The music is relaxing. Fishing is a genuine joy. I will pay close attention to what this studio does in the future,

    BUT. Dave the Diver doesn't    Dave the Diver is cute and a game that is definitely worth playing. Very charming. It gives me hope that in a time where AAA games are on the decline that there will once again be the rise of the Indie game. The characters are endearing. The music is relaxing. Fishing is a genuine joy. I will pay close attention to what this studio does in the future,

    BUT. Dave the Diver doesn't know what it wants to be. It couldn't decide so it picked to be everything. It would be much better game if it picked a couple things and fleshed them out instead of just being mediocre at most things. I wish they had just focused on the fishing / running a sushi restaurant. We could even keep the vegetable and fish farm. Perfect that gameplay loop. I think that could have been a 10/10 game. But instead it tried to do too much and forgot what it's main purpose was. Definitely worth playing, but falls a little short in the end.    … Expand
  34. Banz5555
    Aug 30, 2023
    9
    Very fun and relaxing. Nice characters, nice soundtrack. Love the pixel graphics.
  35. binest03459
    Jul 18, 2023
    10
    It evokes the atmosphere with various contents in the progress that can be somewhat monotonous. Many homages and parodies show the sense of developers.
  36. Dudeman15
    Sep 11, 2023
    10
    This is such a great game. First game that I get 100% of achievements.
    The gameplay is awesome. The repetitiveness, for me, was meditative in a way. You just go around and fish and then run the sushi place and then upgrade your gear etc.
    The story is good. The humour is on point. The game unfold everytime you play during the whole story. The music is gucci good. GOTY 2k23 in the    This is such a great game. First game that I get 100% of achievements.
    The gameplay is awesome. The repetitiveness, for me, was meditative in a way. You just go around and fish and then run the sushi place and then upgrade your gear etc.
    The story is good.
    The humour is on point.
    The game unfold everytime you play during the whole story.
    The music is gucci good.

    GOTY 2k23 in the indie categorie for sure.

    Get the damn game.    … Expand
  37. Chensa
    Jul 16, 2023
    10
    What a brilliant game. Everything about it is a pure joy - The beautiful art style, the cutscenes, the goofy characters, the satisfying loop, the depth of the management and combat systems, and of course - the crazy mini-games. It's truly overwhelming to find out how much content this game offers, and everything is well designed, polished and fun. This is a special game made by greatWhat a brilliant game. Everything about it is a pure joy - The beautiful art style, the cutscenes, the goofy characters, the satisfying loop, the depth of the management and combat systems, and of course - the crazy mini-games. It's truly overwhelming to find out how much content this game offers, and everything is well designed, polished and fun. This is a special game made by great developers, looking forward to seeing what they do next.… Expand
  38. Fausthor
    Aug 11, 2023
    9
    A very fun indie game that mixes a side-view ocean exploring to gather resources, and a sushi restaurant manager/server experience. As you go deeper into the game, new mechanics are presented to the player that keeps the game feeling fresh. The pixel art of the game is amazing, and the "cinemas" are over the top and hilarious.
  39. janethsiao
    Jul 24, 2023
    10
    I love this game. It provides different patterns of playing. RPG, simulation, strategy, etc. Each time when you almost feel bored with the current routine, it came with a new way of playing surprisingly and it successfully lighted up again my interest in the game. In the end, I finished the game and feel very satisfied.
  40. BagelTCG
    Jul 16, 2023
    8
    Great game, I have played for 12 hours now and really enjoyed it and feel like I got my moneys worth. I plan to continue playing it until completion or I'm bored, which I don't see happening soon. You can tell how much detail and love was put into every aspect of this game.
  41. Cenkko
    Jun 30, 2023
    10
    I like this game. Pixelart amazing, sounds like, very chill game. Dave is so funny. :) Enjoy this game. Turkish review my youtube channel,
    https://youtu.be/VEsnisTaXmE
  42. mish123
    Jul 20, 2023
    9
    almost all of the reviews complain about the gameplay loop but its supposed to be like that you go down get some fish go up open the sushi store to get money and upgrade your gear each dive you explore a little more and progress a little bit in the story .
    if you get bored of the gameplay loop there's always the story and the fun bosses.
    the game has really good looking pixel art and fun    almost all of the reviews complain about the gameplay loop but its supposed to be like that you go down get some fish go up open the sushi store to get money and upgrade your gear each dive you explore a little more and progress a little bit in the story .
    if you get bored of the gameplay loop there's always the story and the fun bosses.
    the game has really good looking pixel art and fun animation for certain stuff(researching a new recipe for example).
    the game is fun and addictive and the only thing that's stopping it from a 10/10 is some bugs.
    the game also gets patched regularly so most bugs that I encountered are mostly patched    … Expand
  43. Zephyrghost_
    Jul 22, 2023
    10
    I bought this game as an escape from Blizzard Entertainment's Diablo IV wallet-sucking-mechanics and boy, what a joy it has been. You can tell how much love the devs put into this game compared to all those triple-A companies that keep sucking you dry.
  44. abclikeu
    Jul 27, 2023
    8
    Graphics to match the game. It's pretty fun and well-made. It is not without shortcomings, but it made good use of its strengths.
  45. ruanphilippe
    Aug 9, 2023
    10
    Jogo incrivelmente viciante e relaxante, joguinho de pesca com fazendinha e restaurante.
  46. brummieben
    Aug 15, 2023
    9
    A wonderful gameplay loop and beautiful pixel art graphics. One of the best games of 2023 for sure.
  47. Stefold08
    Aug 25, 2023
    8
    if you like the 2D pixel game is a realy nice game but some meccanic it's not really good, but at over is good i give 8
  48. cerejabru
    Aug 24, 2023
    9
    Jogo gostosinho demais! Posso ficar o dia todo jogando, as missões são super divertidas e os BOSS são desafiadores!
  49. Mulflar
    Sep 5, 2023
    9
    I played near yo 50h and ended the history and all the quest. I enjoyed a lot this Game. It has a good balance between be consistent with the game style and add new features to avoid feel boring. The story is not very deep bus has some funny moments. I played it on SteamDeck and was a perfect experience.
  50. pentatonicameno
    Sep 11, 2023
    10
    Amazing game, lots of things to do. Fun for days and weeks.
    I hope there will be more content in the future.

Awards & Rankings

8
#8 Best PC Game of 2023
21
#21 Most Discussed PC Game of 2023

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
90

Universal acclaim - based on 44 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 44 out of 44
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 44
  3. Negative: 0 out of 44
  1. XboxEra
    Nov 20, 2025
    95
    Dave the Diver is an excellent, enormous title that is best left as vague as possible. Go in without looking too deeply into it and be ready for dozens of hours of some of the best that video gaming has to offer.
    Read full review
  2. GameMAG
    Nov 26, 2023
    90
    Dave the Diver is an eventful experience where every new dive is an adventure of its own that always come hand in hand with an unexpected plot developments.
    Read full review
  3. Destructoid
    Sep 26, 2023
    90
    In a world full of fear and uncertainty, Dave the Diver is here to offer a lighthearted story and engaging gameplay. It doesn’t try to follow trends or emulate big AAA titles. It doesn’t have an in-game shop to try to get you to spend more money. It’s simply a silly, fun game about a diver named Dave, and I can’t put it down.
    Read full review
See all critic reviews »