Rising from the ocean depths like a carved soapstone statue of Stygian, antediluvian horror, Black Salt Games' Dredge has finally made its debut on mobile platforms for iOS and Android. This unique blend of eldritch horror and fishing simulation has been eagerly anticipated, and it's now available for players to immerse themselves in its chilling waters. Combining the terror of Lovecraftian themes with the thrill of exploration and engaging fishing minigames, Dredge promises a nautical horror experience that's both thrilling and terrifying.
In Dredge, you step into the boots of an amnesiac fisherman navigating the mysterious waters around Greater Marrow, a small island chain. Your primary task is straightforward: catch fish and sell them to the local fishermen. However, the simplicity ends there. You'll encounter deranged locals, mutated fish, eerie artifacts, and menacing sea monsters that make the real-life Deadliest Catch look tame by comparison.
For fans of games like Sunless Sea, Dredge serves as a fully 3D spiritual successor. As you explore the various island chains, you'll have the opportunity to upgrade your ship and reel in increasingly larger and more dangerous catches, along with other valuable salvage. But beware: when the fog rolls in at night, the strange beings that scratch at the edge of sanity are just the beginning of your worries.
Dredge quickly became a fan favorite, and it's easy to see why. The realm of nautical horror is ripe with exciting and terrifying themes, yet simply navigating the waterways in your plucky fishing boat can be just as relaxing as the rest of the game is stressful. The game's graphics strike a balance between stylized and surreal, offering a visually captivating experience. With plenty of potential for future DLC, there's a wealth of content to look forward to.
If you're still on the fence about diving into Dredge, perhaps Stephen's review will convince you. Awarding it a certified gold rating, he praises its atmosphere, performance, and the seamless way Black Salt Games has translated a variety of mechanics and user interfaces to the mobile platform.
