Rising from the depths like an ancient, haunting sculpture, Black Salt Games' Dredge has finally made its splash on mobile platforms for iOS and Android. This unique blend of eldritch horror and fishing simulation, delayed slightly but now fully available, offers a thrilling mix of Lovecraftian terror, expansive exploration, and engaging fishing minigames, making it a must-watch nautical horror experience.
In Dredge, you step into the boots of a solitary amnesiac fisherman navigating the mysterious waters of Greater Marrow, a remote island chain. Your primary task might seem straightforward—catch and sell fish to the local inhabitants. However, the waters are teeming with mutated fish, eerie artifacts, and fearsome sea monsters, turning your seemingly simple job into a gripping battle against madness and the unknown, far eclipsing the challenges seen on shows like Deadliest Catch.
Fans of games like Sunless Sea will find Dredge to be a compelling 3D spiritual successor. As you sail through the island chains, you'll upgrade your vessel, haul in increasingly perilous catches, and salvage mysterious items. But beware: as the fog rolls in at night, the creatures that lurk at the edge of your sanity become the least of your concerns!
Dredging quickly became a fan favorite, and for good reason. Nautical horror taps into a rich vein of thrilling and terrifying themes, while the serene experience of navigating your small fishing boat offers a peaceful counterpoint to the game's intense moments. The graphics strike a balance between stylized and surreal, and with the promise of future DLC, there's a wealth of content on the horizon.
Still on the fence? Perhaps Stephen's review of Dredge will convince you. Awarding it a certified gold rating, he praises its immersive atmosphere, smooth performance, and the seamless way Black Salt Games has adapted a variety of mechanics and user interfaces for mobile devices.
