DREDGE

 PC
User Score
8.0

Generally favorable reviews- based on 65 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 49 out of 65
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 65
  3. Negative: 3 out of 65

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  1. juraviel
    Apr 8, 2023
    7
    i was surprised by the amount of 10/10 reviews this game got. it's definitely fun, especially the first half, but later on in the game you just upgrade your boat for the sake of upgrading it, fish don't have 'stats' and you don't really even make more money as you're able to catch newer types of fish. the amount of times my engines got disabled by the slightest damage was frustrating asi was surprised by the amount of 10/10 reviews this game got. it's definitely fun, especially the first half, but later on in the game you just upgrade your boat for the sake of upgrading it, fish don't have 'stats' and you don't really even make more money as you're able to catch newer types of fish. the amount of times my engines got disabled by the slightest damage was frustrating as well. buy it on sale for the story & aesthetic feel but expect gameplay to be a bit lacking… Expand
  2. Almoststan
    Apr 7, 2023
    7
    A visual and stylistic aesthetic that sucks you in like a current which, in the beginning, instills a great feel of dread in you. Game play begins simple enough and is quite cathartic in some ways, and develops well enough into the mid game.

    Unfortunately I found some elements of the game to feel a little flashy with very little actual substance. The panic system for instance looks cool    A visual and stylistic aesthetic that sucks you in like a current which, in the beginning, instills a great feel of dread in you. Game play begins simple enough and is quite cathartic in some ways, and develops well enough into the mid game.

    Unfortunately I found some elements of the game to feel a little flashy with very little actual substance. The panic system for instance looks cool but is often quite redundant, as the game finds few opportunities to actually force you to sail in the dark (e.g. some fish require night catching, but can be caught from 6pm, meaning your job can be done quickly and early before panic becomes a big issue), so most of the game can be waited out for daylight. The actual horror aspects I also found to be pretty poorly utilized too, with each isle having its big evil fish to deal with, yet they all end up just feeling annoying rather than scary.

    Also once late game comes around, you realize that fishing takes a backseat in favor of some pretty boring puzzle mechanics that result in the game losing its engine, ending in a bit of a sputter.    … Expand
  3. hoanns
    Apr 17, 2023
    8
    Cool little fishing game with nice game mechanicics, wish it was longer and more to explore.
  4. Dyldom
    Apr 16, 2023
    10
    Dredge delivers on its premise in spades, perfectly blending the tranquil seclusion of a fishing trip with the anxious, sinister horror of Lovecraft-ian fiction. I let myself get very excited for Dredge prior to its release and it didn’t disappoint for a second. A must play indie.
  5. royalguy07
    Apr 14, 2023
    8
    Dredge is a new fishing adventure RPG from Team 17 digital and Black Salt Games. The game pits you as the new fisherman in a mysterious network of interconnected islands. You must pay off your debt for the boat they supplied you with by fishing, fetching, connecting, and supplying for the various inhabitants of these dangerous islands.

    Dredge has an intriguing beginning, you crash    Dredge is a new fishing adventure RPG from Team 17 digital and Black Salt Games. The game pits you as the new fisherman in a mysterious network of interconnected islands. You must pay off your debt for the boat they supplied you with by fishing, fetching, connecting, and supplying for the various inhabitants of these dangerous islands.

    Dredge has an intriguing beginning, you crash landed in the area and have ruined your ship. The mayor of the town 'generously' lends you a vessel so that you can replace the previous fisherman, whose disappearance is never fully explained, of the area. Repaying your debt is done by fishing up different species and selling them for cash (a certain % of the sales goes towards your debt) and also by performing various tasks around the islands for special items or parts to upgrade your boats fishing rod capacity, lights, cargo, etc. The fishing mechanics are very simple and there is thankfully ways to speed up the process through upgrades. The storing of fish/items and the equipment of new gear for your ship is handled in a resident evil style grid style. Fish and items can be flipped and rotated to conserve more space

    The boat you are given is very small and slow. Initial upgrades must be made before you can even reach the beyond the first few islands. This is due to the fact that traversal during night is dangerous and many times can result in the destruction of you and your ship. Massive sharks, krakens, and even ghosts lurk in the shadows at night, also the fog that rolls in makes it near impossible to see further than a few feet which causes impacts with rocks and islands you can't see coming. This leads to the game having a very simple, short, and addictive gameplay loop since a typical outing only takes a minute or so until nighttime and the fog roll in. You cast out in the morning, collect fish, materials, quest items, and retun by nightfall to sell/store your catches for the day.

    Fishing is supplemented by the addition of crab boxes and trawling nets which fish for your while you away, even catching some fish that are uncatchable anyways. The upgrade system flows nicely into the different versions of water you are able to fish from the far off and more dangerous areas. Initially you can only fish in waters that are shallow or coastal but eventually you get to fish the real big fish in the abyssal or volcanic sections. The game really does open up in a beautiful way once you are able to get some new engines installed and the haste action. Flying across the seas with the engine roaring is a fun time throughout the game.

    Controlling the actual ship out in the waters is frustrating at times, it does not turn as well as you would like, leading to many bumps and crashes that will need to be repaired. Individual components on the ship can even be disabled by these crashes, the worst is when the engines get damaged and your pace slows to a crawl. Also, directions for the pursuits (quests) can sometimes be unclear on exactly how to proceed, luckily the few main quests mark red X's on the map that show where to go. There are many fishing fetch quests for more rarer sea life but they are not tracked adequately in the menus, some of them are even shape based which is unfortunate cause you can only see the shapes at the drop off point they are needed, so you have to sail back and forth if you think you have the right fish which can be frustrating.

    The game is fairly brisk and the ending credits roll rather unexpectedly, only minutes after the game warns you there's no turning back and this is the last mission. I am not going to say that the ending was the most satisfying or engaging culmination I've ever seen but the game as a whole worked well.

    Played exclusively on steam deck with no issues.    … Expand
  6. george_bondo
    Apr 14, 2023
    8
    Few horror games could strain me as much as this game, it was really unpleasant in places. But the game itself is good, atmospheric music, interesting story, different locations and side quests that can make you think.
  7. SoapyNome
    Apr 4, 2023
    9
    If you like fishing mini-games akin to ones like fishing in Stardew Valley, you will love this game. Very stylized, great music, calming gameplay. Definitely nothing watching you beneath the waves. Just a normal fishing game.
  8. Gorgon001
    Apr 7, 2023
    10
    Do I think this game is a 10/10? No its style is impeccable and soundtrack is great but it is quite repetitive and short the only reason I'm giving it a 10/10 is because a 7.1 average is way too low for what this game deserves solid 8.5/10
  9. skjold27
    Apr 3, 2023
    0
    When I saw the gameplay of the demo I thought it was just another garbage. However, I wanted to give it a try, hoping I was wrong.
    But no, unfortunately, I wasn't. It is a delivery boy simulator. "Hey, dude, bring me this, bring me that, do this, do that", without any real interest in seeing what happens when you complete the task and, in some cases, the game tells you: "the person leaves    When I saw the gameplay of the demo I thought it was just another garbage. However, I wanted to give it a try, hoping I was wrong.
    But no, unfortunately, I wasn't. It is a delivery boy simulator. "Hey, dude, bring me this, bring me that, do this, do that", without any real interest in seeing what happens when you complete the task and, in some cases, the game tells you: "the person leaves without giving you anything in change" WTF? I mean, you've done a job, for nothing, because it's not even entertaining. It is that you have to fish and dredge and, although the name implies it, it shouldn't mean you have to spend 99.99% of the game fishing and dredging, but yes, yes it is. Fish and dredge, fish and dredge, for all eternity. Because the crappy boat you have is improved with things that are quite expensive and what you fish and dredge is not worth a damn. It is barely enough to repair the damage, some of which is caused by the slightest touch against a rock.
    And the story? Better to watch both endings on youtube, save your money and use it on something much better than this overhyped piece of trash.    … Expand
  10. AbaddonMason
    Apr 10, 2023
    8
    Каеф на несколько вечеров. Ненапряжный геймплей, стиль с нотками Лавкравтских повестей и приятный ост. Простенькая, но классная стилизованная графика отлично работает в 4к даже на 1050.
  11. AppleofKnowing
    Apr 23, 2023
    10
    The first day I thought this was a pretty good game...maybe 8. I was kind of surprised at the 10's. However after beating this game. I think the length of the game is very well timed, the story one the best, and amazing gameplay. I get why people give it a ten. Now I am dying for a sequel. Soooo good.
  12. Nois3cor3
    Jun 11, 2023
    0
    Really boring gameplay, this game should've been released about 20 years ago
  13. Cyber_Angel
    May 13, 2023
    8
    So far one of the best games of this year.
    Easy to pickup and it's laid back gameplay coupled with great writing and Lovecraftian oddities make it a surprising delight.
  14. Bettellgeusse
    Sep 5, 2023
    9
    Que gran juego me encanto, que puedo decir de lo mejor que he jugado este año, brilla en todos sus apartados y es muy relajante para mi, son de esos juegos que cuando te das cuenta han pasado horas y ya has perdido tu tiempo de dormir...espero su DLC o una segunda parte:

    Escala de 0 - 10 Jugabilidad : 10 Historia : 8 Calidad de desarrolla : 10 Apartado artístico : 10 Banda sonora    Que gran juego me encanto, que puedo decir de lo mejor que he jugado este año, brilla en todos sus apartados y es muy relajante para mi, son de esos juegos que cuando te das cuenta han pasado horas y ya has perdido tu tiempo de dormir...espero su DLC o una segunda parte:

    Escala de 0 - 10

    Jugabilidad : 10
    Historia : 8
    Calidad de desarrolla : 10
    Apartado artístico : 10
    Banda sonora : 8

    Lo Mejor: Las mecánicas y progresión del juego
    Lo peor: No poder dormir por seguir jugando    … Expand
  15. Hoplite
    Apr 19, 2023
    10
    It's pretty fun, original. Dave the Diver is probably better....I've only played this a few hours and the whole demo previously. I can't see it being better that "dave" and that is still early access. But it's creative and fun enough. Hopefully they make a better sequel w a better budget
  16. MattTheReviewer
    Sep 8, 2023
    10
    Fish turned into lovecraftian horrors beyond human comprehension, the game, so much fun
  17. WarfD
    May 28, 2023
    7
    It started great, but unfortunately, the gameplay is barely changing and becomes a bit boring after you get most of the upgrades.
  18. Shunwoo
    Apr 27, 2023
    10
    Excellent game, there are only a few negative points I can find but there are not detrimental to the experience and the feeling of immersion in this atypical fantasy. Love it
  19. Brunno537
    Mar 31, 2023
    10
    Incredible game ! such a good game ! i love it ! i cant stop playing ! this kind of games and companies need to have our support. Incredible how the greatest idea always comes from small/indie new people that dare to go where others failed. You dare to set sail to the unknown and its incredible ! thanks for this masterpiece !
  20. ggscv
    Sep 11, 2023
    9
    Fairly short and sweet but with a very decent story and fair game mechanics that keep you entertained during it's short playtime. Definitely worth a play.
  21. breakzoras
    Jul 14, 2023
    10
    Escapism at its best with very nice addictive gameplay, expect somewhere around 20-30 hours before you are fully geared and this was done with the slowest pace possible, enjoyed the vibe
  22. Movierate
    Apr 26, 2023
    9
    Dredge is a whimsical experience that blends the best parts of sim games wonderfully: research, upgrades, resource management, game play loop, music, and great game design. The game hooked me- just one more turn (day). I exploited the crab traps and made a fortune! There is a lot here- story, approachable/simple mini games that don't get stale, an encyclopedia to fill out, and decent sizedDredge is a whimsical experience that blends the best parts of sim games wonderfully: research, upgrades, resource management, game play loop, music, and great game design. The game hooked me- just one more turn (day). I exploited the crab traps and made a fortune! There is a lot here- story, approachable/simple mini games that don't get stale, an encyclopedia to fill out, and decent sized map with lots of hidden goodies. Yes, it could be a little tightened up- the research/economy could be a bit more balanced after mid game (I maxed out and felt a bit too strong too early in my opinion) and the use of the pontoon boat rather than having separate towns/cities at each point of interest on the map (budget/time constraints?). That being said, the game has been amazing- money and time well spent!!! I highly recommend it and commend the developer.… Expand
  23. aaaskeptic
    Sep 7, 2023
    8
    Very charming game, falls off a bit in the end unfortunately. Things get a bit repetitive. The opening hours were very strong. Exploring the world and finding the new biomes is exciting, definitely underrated game.
  24. tchouprine
    Aug 26, 2023
    8
    Well-crafted game full of mysteries to uncover, while letting you go your own way. The mechanics are rather tight, every random encounter feels meaningful. From navigating your boat to charting the unknown – all is really enjoyable, and I am a bit surprised that this game isn't getting much higher acclaim. Hell, I even decided to create an account to help with it a bit, as I really feelWell-crafted game full of mysteries to uncover, while letting you go your own way. The mechanics are rather tight, every random encounter feels meaningful. From navigating your boat to charting the unknown – all is really enjoyable, and I am a bit surprised that this game isn't getting much higher acclaim. Hell, I even decided to create an account to help with it a bit, as I really feel like this might be this year's Indie GOTY!
    PS, go check the Steam score, it really is that good!    … Expand
  25. PEACEERR
    May 2, 2023
    9
    Amazing game, they have now announced dlc for later in the year. My only complaint had been the somewhat short story, the promise of more to come is music to my ears.
  26. Mister_vao
    Apr 24, 2023
    9
    Absolutely loved this game. The artwork cannot be overlooked and lent itself perfectly to this game. bravo!
  27. AdSPirant
    May 30, 2023
    8
    Simple, engaging and straight to the point. This is no Sunless Sea. The story is humble and the world is more static; there are a few missions here and there, and most of the challenge lies within the fishing mechanics and the stylized aesthetic. Doesn't try to do too much, and they play towards their strengths. Cruising the seas, exploring the world, discovering new types of fish, newSimple, engaging and straight to the point. This is no Sunless Sea. The story is humble and the world is more static; there are a few missions here and there, and most of the challenge lies within the fishing mechanics and the stylized aesthetic. Doesn't try to do too much, and they play towards their strengths. Cruising the seas, exploring the world, discovering new types of fish, new zones, upgrading the boat and talking to the few locals are pretty much all you can do; but the setting, music, themes and gameplay loops are extremely addictive. The horror element adds tension, but could be much more expanded upon, yes. In the end, the whole package makes for short but memorable journey.… Expand
  28. Young_Fawn
    Jun 27, 2023
    8
    A Lovecraftian Fishing Game

    Dredge is a game where you take on the role of a fisherman amongst a set of Islands to gather yield. The core gameplay loop is rather simple, go and collect fish and other resources to sell for money and upgrade your ship to get better fish. There's multiple ways to gather fish from just standard fishing, nets, trawls etc, One of the more interesting    A Lovecraftian Fishing Game

    Dredge is a game where you take on the role of a fisherman amongst a set of Islands to gather yield.

    The core gameplay loop is rather simple, go and collect fish and other resources to sell for money and upgrade your ship to get better fish.

    There's multiple ways to gather fish from just standard fishing, nets, trawls etc,

    One of the more interesting aspects of the game is the abnormal fish, every single fish has some kind of abnormal variant and gathering them, looking at them and reading about them, at least for me, was one of the more interesting parts.

    There is an overall story among a myriad of side quests, the main quest is basically to gather five different relics and bring them to the collector.

    My only criticism of the game is that sometimes it can get tedious looking for a certain kind of fish, also damaging your hull accidentally can cause you to lose important items, just setting you back.

    You can also get a lot of your main upgrades very early if you're willing to put the grind in, nothing is gated behind progress.

    Overall, Dredge is an 8/10, the Lovecraftian elements to the game really make the game that bit more special.    … Expand
  29. Irishismyname
    Jul 7, 2023
    10
    I love the spooky, casual, Halloween-ish vibe this game has. Story is very cool and gameplay will get you hooked,
  30. davethedeal
    Sep 5, 2023
    8
    A solid casual game with cute graphics. It is easy to play, and easy to enjoy.

Awards & Rankings

99
#99 Best PC Game of 2023
42
#42 Most Discussed PC Game of 2023

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
80

Generally favorable reviews - based on 41 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 33 out of 41
  2. Mixed: 8 out of 41
  3. Negative: 0 out of 41
  1. Adventure Gamers
    Feb 2, 2024
    90
    DREDGE is a one-of-a-kind fishing game with an interesting premise that keeps players engaged throughout. Though its ending leaves something to be desired, DREDGE shines in its ability to create an enveloping atmosphere through its appealing art, well-composed music, and entertaining gameplay.
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  2. GamingTrend
    Aug 14, 2023
    100
    Dredge is an indie horror gem that will be looked upon fondly by anyone with an affinity for adventure and mystery. Every part of the game is engaging and otherworldly, yet distinctly down to earth. From the charming low-poly graphics, to the deeply emotion-invoking soundtrack, to the heartfelt story, Dredge understands how to make the player feel immersed in its dark yet beautiful world.
    Read full review
  3. Games.cz
    May 25, 2023
    80
    A game that is disturbing, charming and full of spirit, all at the same time. It draws from H. P. Lovecraft and does it very well – and it also manages to stay on point, not wasting your time with anything that isn’t needed. You should make the journey, even if there are some blemishes to be found.
    Read full review
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