Dave the Diver Review: A Deep and Delightful Adventure

Dave the Diver is a 2D pixel adventure game that combines spearfishing, restaurant management, and a quirky story into a charming and addictive experience. Developed by Mintrocket and published by Nexon, Dave the Diver was released on June 25, 2023 for PC and Nintendo Switch.

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The game has received critical acclaim from various outlets, such as IGN, PC Gamer, Screen Rant, and Geek Culture, for its colorful graphics, engaging gameplay, and humorous characters. In this article, we will explore what makes Dave the Diver such a fun and unique game that deserves your attention.

The Story

The game follows the titular Dave, a chubby and reluctant scuba diver who works at a sushi restaurant near the mysterious Blue Hole, a stretch of water that changes its terrain and aquatic ecosystem every day. Along with his friends and coworkers, such as Bancho, the stoic sushi chef, and Duff, the anime-obsessed gunsmith, Dave embarks on an adventure that involves a secret society of merfolk, some aggressive wildlife-protection enthusiasts, and dozens of people making rude comments about his weight.

The story of Dave the Diver is surprisingly deep and substantial, with characters that are more complex than they initially appear. The game balances humor and drama well, delivering hilarious cutscenes and dialogue that never get old, as well as touching moments that reveal the motivations and backgrounds of the main cast. The game also features multiple endings depending on your choices and actions throughout the game, adding replay value and variety to the story.

The Gameplay

The gameplay of Dave the Diver is divided into two main parts: diving and restaurant management. Each day, you can spend the morning and afternoon diving into the Blue Hole to hunt for fish and supplies, battle enemies, and complete quests. You can also explore different areas of the ocean, such as coral reefs, shipwrecks, caves, and more. The diving is relaxing and enjoyable, with colorful fish darting around and kelp swaying in the currents. However, it can also be challenging and thrilling, as you have to manage your oxygen supply, avoid or fight dangerous predators like sharks and eels, and deal with environmental hazards like currents and mines.

At night, you can run your sushi restaurant by crafting recipes, cooking, hiring and training employees, and serving customers in a fast-paced minigame. You can use your earnings to upgrade your diving gear, redecorate your restaurant, research new recipes, and unlock new features. The restaurant management is satisfying and rewarding, as you can see your business grow and attract more customers. However, it can also be stressful and demanding, as you have to deal with fussy customers, food critics, health inspectors, and competitors.

The game also offers many other activities and features to keep you entertained. You can customize your character’s appearance with different outfits and accessories. You can collect trophies and achievements for completing various tasks and challenges. You can participate in fishing tournaments and compete with other divers for prizes. You can discover secrets and easter eggs hidden in the game world. You can even romance some of the characters in the game (yes, even some of the fish).

The Graphics

The graphics of Dave the Diver are simple but charming. The game uses a pixel art style that is bright and vibrant. The game world is full of details and animations that make it feel alive. The character designs are expressive and memorable. The game also uses some dynamic lighting effects that create a beautiful contrast between the surface and the depths of the ocean.

The game runs smoothly on both PC and Switch platforms. The game also supports both keyboard/mouse controls and controller inputs on PC. The game is also compatible with Steam Deck devices.

The Verdict

Dave the Diver is an absolute delight to play. It is one of the best games of 2023 so far. It offers a wonderful blend of adventure RPG elements with restaurant management simulation mechanics. It has a captivating story with lovable characters. It has a relaxing but exciting gameplay loop that keeps you hooked for hours. It has a charming pixel art style that is pleasing to the eye.

If you are looking for a fun and unique game that will make you laugh, cry, and crave sushi at the same time, look no further than Dave the Diver.