Cast Your Line into the Abyss: Dredge Review

Developer: Black Salt Games | Publisher: Team17 | Genre: Adventure
Platforms: Nintendo Switch, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series S/X, PS4, PS5
Reviewed on: Nintendo Switch

Dredge captivates players from the start, dropping them into a grimy dock of an eerie village lost at sea. The sinister atmosphere is palpable, with cryptic characters like the brooding lighthouse keeper and the ominous mayor setting the stage for a spine-chilling adventure.

The fishing mechanics are engaging and enjoyable, providing a welcome respite from the creeping horror that permeates the game. Players navigate the mysterious waters, discovering hidden spots to cast their lines and reel in an array of unique fish, each with its own distinct characteristics.

As day turns to night, the game takes a sinister turn, with unsettling phenomena emerging from the shadows. Players must weigh the risks of staying out late to catch rare, spooky fish against the potential dangers that lurk in the darkness.

Dredge’s skill tree system adds depth to the gameplay, allowing players to upgrade various aspects of their fishing experience. This is achieved through selling fish and scavenging for upgrade parts out at sea, where the game’s namesake comes into play.

Dredging is a unique mechanic that turns the familiar fishing mini-game on its head. Players must avoid dark marks on the spinning reel, with time rapidly passing if they fail. The risk and reward balance is expertly maintained, creating a tense and exhilarating experience.

The inventory system in Dredge is a nod to Resident Evil 4, with players having to meticulously arrange their items within a grid that represents their boat deck. This added layer of complexity enhances the gameplay, making every decision feel meaningful and consequential.

Dredge is also filled with side quests that propel the story forward

Dredge is also filled with side quests that propel the story forward, including recovering sunken relics for a mysterious man with a powerful book. Each relic grants the player a double-edged power-up, such as haste, which boosts the boat’s speed at the cost of stability and sanity.

The game’s presentation is top-notch, with an art style that perfectly captures the eerie atmosphere of a Lovecraftian world. The music and sound design further enhance the experience, creating a truly immersive and haunting atmosphere.

Each area of the map boasts a unique biome, offering players a diverse range of environments to explore and fish in. New rods and tools become available as players progress through these areas, further expanding the fishing gameplay and keeping the experience fresh and engaging.

While Dredge is an enthralling experience overall, it is not without its flaws. The game’s inherent ambiguity can occasionally lead to frustration, particularly when attempting to locate specific fish for quests. A lack of clear guidance can leave players feeling stuck and unsure of their next move.

Additionally, the balance between pursuing upgrades and navigating the open seas can sometimes feel unclear, leading to moments of uncertainty. A few adjustments to the game’s guidance system and the ability to add custom markers to the map could alleviate these minor issues.

Black Salt Games has crafted a unique and enthralling world that masterfully blends fishing simulation with cosmic horror

Despite these minor drawbacks, Dredge remains a captivating and memorable gaming experience. The small team at Black Salt Games has crafted a unique and enthralling world that masterfully blends fishing simulation with cosmic horror.

For those who find themselves at the intersection of a love for fishing and an appreciation of Lovecraftian horror, Dredge is a must-play. With its immersive atmosphere, engaging gameplay, and unforgettable moments, Dredge is a game that will keep players hooked long after the credits roll.

In conclusion, Dredge is a hauntingly captivating experience that expertly combines the thrill of fishing with the spine-chilling allure of Lovecraftian horror. Its rich world, engaging gameplay, and eerie atmosphere make it a must-play for fans of both genres. While it is not without its flaws, the overall experience is one that players will not soon forget. So grab your fishing rod, embrace the darkness, and set sail on a chilling adventure with Dredge.