Out On The Water (AppID: 3770950)

Out On The Water is a short, meditative journey through memory and grief that tells the story of an inattentive father and his last chance to connect with his children. Set adrift in quiet waters that represent each child, catch strange memory fish to uncover the past and face regrets.

Please note that Out On The Water is not a fishing sim. You will not collect multiple different species of fish. You will not have a robust upgrade system. Fishing is merely used as a mechanism to uncover and experience the story. 

• Uncover a deeply emotional, story-rich journey told through fishing. 

• Short, meditative playthrough that can be finished in an evening. 

• Explore surreal, dreamlike oceans that each reflect a different child’s story. 

• Experience the emotional journey of a father who must uncover and face his past. 

• A simple fishing mechanic where the fish represent memories.

Please note that Out On The Water is not a fishing sim. You will not collect multiple different species of fish. You will not have a robust upgrade system. Fishing is merely used as a mechanism to uncover and experience the story. 

Instead, if you are someone who enjoys playing narrative-focused games, please follow the instructions below to find out if this game's narrative and mechanics resonate with you - I want to make sure you are happy with your purchase decision and want to keep the reviews of this game as positive as possible!

How many of the following 8 points do you like?

• A meditative narrative game 

• Fishing as a metaphor and narrative device - not a challenge

• A story about memory, grief and connection

• Piecing together narrative through environmental and narrative clues

• Symbolic-heavy Storytelling

• A game with a short playtime (roughly ~1-2 hours) 

• No action or combat

• A slightly melancholic story about a father who was never entirely present

If you like 6-8 points:
I think you will really like this game! 

If you like 4-5 points:
This is an unconventional narrative game concept, but it's unique, and if you're willing to try it, I think you will enjoy it - there is a simple fishing mechanic and an emotional story to enjoy if you just want a casual gaming experience if you're not a hardcore narrative gamer. 

If you like 3-4 points:
It might be worth wishlisting and checking out again later - or trying during a sale if you're really curious. 

If you like 0-2 points:
This game is probably not for you - and that's okay! Thank you for your interest though!

I wanted to say thank you to anyone who purchases this game, or who shows interest. Night Pond Games is a solo indie developer studio dedicated to making small games that mix deeply moving, emotional storytelling with interesting gameplay that features unique mechanics and environments. I enjoy playing these types games, and I hope I made a game you enjoy playing as well.