Dave the Diver — Review (2026): Is It Worth Playing?
Dave the Diver is an indie game from Mintrocket, released in June 2023 on PC and later on Switch and PlayStation. The main character is Dave, a diver who fishes in the Blue Hole by day and runs a sushi bar by night. The game combines exploration RPG, resource management, and puzzles.
What is the game about
Dave arrives at a tropical resort to help a friend with a sushi bar. By day he dives into the ocean — exploring coral reefs, caves, and depths, catching fish and avoiding sharks. In the evening he prepares sushi and serves guests. As you progress, new ocean zones, underwater hunting weapons, and mysteries of an ancient seafaring civilization open up.
Gameplay
- Dual gameplay: diving by day, restaurant by night.
- Upgrades: improve gear, weapons, and menu.
- Story twists: from pirates to ancient technology.
- Minigames: rice farming, fish breeding, photography.
Should you play it in 2026
Yes. Dave the Diver is one of the most pleasant surprises of 2023: it hooks you for dozens of hours, constantly introduces new mechanics, and never repeats itself. Perfect for short sessions.
Pros and cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Unique gameplay | Restaurant can get tedious |
| Tons of content | Pixel graphics aren't for everyone |
| Calm pace | No clear "end" goal |
FAQ
Is there an end? Yes, the main story concludes, but the game continues.
How many hours? 30–40 hours.
Is it on consoles? Yes, Switch and PlayStation.