Top 5 Sea Adventure Games to Dive Into

Although the ocean covers about 70% of the Earth’s surface, most of it remains uncharted. The sea feels like a world separate from us. That’s why it’s an interesting — and scary — setting for video games. Whether you’re into horrifying or relaxing titles, there’s something for everyone in this list of the best sea adventure games.

Top 5 Sea Adventure Games to Dive Into

DAVE THE DIVER

Developer/Publisher: MINTROCKET

Release Date: Jun. 28, 2023

Platform(s): PC, Nintendo Switch

Genre: Adventure, Casual, RPG, Simulation

We’re starting the list with a banger! DAVE THE DIVER gained widespread love over the past few months. MINTROCKET merges restaurant management, diving, farming, and other gameplay elements, creating a unique, memorable blend. You become Dave, who gets a job working at a sushi restaurant while supplying it with ingredients. That’s a lot of responsibility, but the experience is worth it. Explore the depths of the Blue Hole, battle creatures, gain weapons, and so much more in this deep-sea adventure.

Dredge

Developer/Publisher: Black Salt Games/Team17

Release Date: Mar. 30, 2023

Platform(s): Microsoft Windows, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S

Genre: Adventure, RPG, Horror

This title also made it on our list of the best indie games of 2023. Black Salt Games uses Lovecraftian storytelling, encouraging you to unravel the disturbing secrets of The Greater Marrow. Visit different islands, upgrade your boat, catch malformed fish, meet the locals, and try to stay sane as you set sail on a terrifying adventure.

Check out the Dredge Content Pack if you’re interested in Dredge and DAVE THE DIVER. The DLC requires the base game, DAVE THE DIVER. 

Subnautica

Developer/Publisher: Unknown Worlds Entertainment

Release Date: Jan. 23, 2018

Platform(s): MacOS, PC, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X/S

Genre: Survival, Action, Adventure

Another horror-filled ocean adventure makes it to the list, except this one is much more terrifying. After crash landing on an alien planet, you must be resourceful to survive. Craft equipment, build bases, fight enemies, and more in this nightmare-inducing underwater adventure. The most valuable resources lay deep in the ocean, where the most threatening creatures live. If you think deep-sea exploration is scary, try doing it on an alien planet!

ABZÛ 

Developer/Publisher: Giant Squid/505 Games

Release Date: Aug. 2, 2016

Platform(s): PlayStation 4, Windows, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch

Genre: Adventure, Simulation, Action, Casual, Indie

This one’s for those who want a deep-sea adventure that’s calming. Several of ABZÛ’s staff members also worked on Journey, which gained worldwide success for its art direction. ABZÛ follows suit with incredible visuals and relaxing gameplay. You play a diver who restores desolate oceanic areas into thriving ecosystems. You’ll also learn about various sea creatures while passing through different biomes. It’s a breathtaking experience that no one should miss out on.

We Need to Go Deeper

Developer/Publisher: Deli Interactive LLC

Release Date: Aug. 1, 2019

Platform(s): PC

Genre: 2D, Rougelike, Indie, Simulation, Action

Last but not least is a game you can play with others! We Need to Go Deeper lets two to four players explore The Living Infinite trench. This ocean-based roguelike stuffs everyone in a submarine, forcing you all to steer the machine, repair damages, and fire torpedoes. Meanwhile, every sea creature is trying to eat you and your crew mates. Unlock more submarines, explore randomized biomes, and discover valuable tools in this title inspired by Verne: The Shape of Fantasy.

Honorable Mentions