Diving, Underwater & Ocean Themed Games For Divers
Waiting for your next diving adventure? Discover a great way to scratch that 'diving itch'...
Gaming can be a great way to relax, spend some idle time (maybe travelling to your next Oceans Around Us diving Expedition), or even to make new friends who have similar interests. Another common reason for gaming is its ability to satisfy a passion when doing the ‘real thing’ simply is not possible.
In the modern world of media consumption, most ocean lovers satisfy their yearning for the sea by binge watching underwater Instagram or YouTube content.
For others, there is a much more rewarding alternative which offers a sense of “doing” and engagement, often involving a level of exploration which is left up to you as the participant.
Welcome to the world of diving, underwater and ocean themed digital gaming…
Ocean themed games loved by divers
Below we list (in no particular order) just a few of our favourite diving or ocean themed games with a brief explanation on each and why they might be great for anyone from scuba divers, freedivers or pretty much any ocean lovers.
All the games listed here are ones we have actually played ourselves (in most cases from start to finish, sometimes more than once… 🤿).
ABZÛ
STEAM / Nintendo Switch / PlayStation 4 / Xbox One
In Sumerian and Akkadian mythology, ‘Abzu’ is referred to as the primeval sea below the void space of the underworld (Kur) and the earth (Ma) above.
This diving game explores some of these mystical references, though thanks to its wordless narrative, the interpretation of its events is largely up to you. You play as an outer worldly diver in a angular art style world and over the course of its fairly short story, you’ll interact with marine life, explore the ocean’s depths (from shallows to the abyss and even a stop in the arctic) while at times solving some light puzzles on your quest to restore the ocean to its former glory.
This is about as relaxing as a diving game can be and there is no ‘threat’ to your character, making it a very relaxing game featuring an incredible variety of real life species. With so much work having gone into variety, odds are you will find your favourite marine life somewhere along the storyline, featuring everything from common dolphins and turtles, to orcas and polar bears.
This is a great ‘go to’ for any diver and being available on the Nintendo Switch makes it the perfect choice for a travel / hotel game on your next dive trip (more on this at the end of the article).
SUBNAUTICA
STEAM / Nintendo Switch / PlayStation 4 & 5 / Xbox One / MacOS
Although many have never heard of it, there is a very good reason why SUBNAUTICA has such a dedicated fanbase (cult following is often used). It is an incredible underwater and diving game for which the short synopsis is;
A first person game where you have crash-landed on an aquatic planet and where you will need to craft tools, explore vibrant coral reefs, and outsmart dangerous creatures to survive.
The longer description (without spoiling anything) is that there is a mind-blowing story that will unfold as you explore, guiding you through the immensely detailed and vibrant world you find yourself in. In order to escape you will build underwater bases, discover secrets, learn about the local life (you will become obsessed!) and fight for life in what has to be one of the most captivating underwater adventures ever created. Everything from the beautiful, painstakingly designed world to the impressive soundtrack contributes to this being one of those games many return to, even after completing it.
Given the limitless way in which underwater bases can be constructed and modified (its very impressive), some players almost entirely abandon the story to spend their time building their perfect home on the ocean floor…because you can.
Although all the marine life is alien, this is undoubtedly one of the best diving games you can get your hands on and it also offers a variety of ways to play ranging from difficult to super easy.
The PC version is known to be the most stable and impressive way to play SUBNAUTICA (check out Steam) and it is even possible to play using VR. That being said, it is also available on the Nintendo Switch where it also performs quite well (awesome for travel or playing on the move). Just note that cross saving is not available, meaning your Switch saved games wont be linked to a PC or MacOS copy.
Dave The Diver
STEAM / Nintendo Switch / PlayStation 4 & 5, macOS
A pixel art style game where by day you explore vibrant coral reefs and discover the mysteries of a ever changing Blue Hole. You will encounter a kaleidoscope of marine life while diving, from clownfish to whales, as you search for hidden treasures and unravel ancient secrets.
But your day doesn’t end at sunset…as night falls you can go for a night dive to find a whole new environment, or stay on shore and help your ‘business partner’ build a thriving sushi restaurant. Catch fresh ingredients during your dives, then get creative in the kitchen, crafting delicious sushi dishes to satisfy your quirky customers.
Dave the Diver is a unique blend of exploration, resource gathering, and restaurant management, all set in a charming underwater world. The writing is also very well done with some truly hilarious dialogue and moments sprinkled throughout its storyline.
A quick warning on in-game savagery given the nature of this article –
Something which will not sit well with some players is that the game has a very weird and conflicting system where on one hand it seems like a lot of effort went into educating the player about the animals you will encounter, while at the same time it has you harpooning nearly everything you can find. In a word’ bizarre‘ explains quite a few elements of the game perfectly.
So at the end of the day a funny and very addictive diving game which is is enjoyable if you do not take it too seriously (a bit like GTA).
Out of interest – the latest DLC ties into the world of ‘Dredge‘ which is the next game on our list…
Dredge
STEAM / Nintendo Switch / PlayStation 4 & 5 / Xbox
Although not a diving game (this one is all about fishing), it certainly fits the bill for being an awesome underwater / ocean themed game!
Blending the serenity of fishing with the unsettling whispers of Lovecraftian horror. You play as a nameless amnesiac washed ashore in a remote archipelago, tasked with repaying your debt by becoming the latest resident fisherman. But the depths of The Marrows hold more than just ordinary fish.
The core gameplay loop revolves around sailing, fishing, and selling your haul. The act of fishing is surprisingly engaging, with different types of fish requiring specific lures and techniques. The inventory management adds a satisfying puzzle element as you try to Tetris your scaly bounty into your ship’s hold
As the sun sets, the true horror begins to emerge. The once tranquil waters become shrouded in fog, and unsettling whispers fill the air. Eerie bioluminescent creatures lurk just out of sight, and monstrous tentacles occasionally breach the surface, serving as potent reminders of the dangers that lurk beneath. Dredge excels at building a sense of constant unease, never letting you fully relax, even during the daytime fishing expeditions.
Dredge unfolds its narrative through environmental storytelling and cryptic conversations with the isolated islanders. You slowly piece together the history of the archipelago and the dark secret it holds. While the story itself may not be groundbreaking, the way it’s presented, shrouded in mystery and open to interpretation, is highly effective.
The unique blend of fishing, horror, and exploration, coupled with its beautiful art style and haunting atmosphere, makes for a memorable journey. Just be prepared for the unsettling feeling of never knowing what lurks just beneath the surface.
Shinsekai: Into the Depths
STEAM / Nintendo Switch / MacOS / iOS
Shinsekai: Into the Depths is an action-adventure diving game that takes you on a hauntingly beautiful journey into the depths of the ocean. In this unique side-scrolling Metroidvania, you play as the last surviving human, venturing into a world where humanity has been forced to seek refuge underwater due to a devastating ice age.
The game’s atmosphere is its strongest suit. The underwater world is rendered in stunning detail, with bioluminescent creatures, shimmering coral reefs, and the oppressive darkness of the deep trenches. The soundtrack perfectly complements the visuals, with ambient sounds and melancholic melodies that create a sense of awe and isolation (playing with headphones is strongly recommended).
The gameplay combines exploration and combat. You’ll navigate through diverse underwater environments, solving environmental puzzles and battling strange and hostile creatures. The combat system is simple yet satisfying, with a variety of tools and upgrades at your disposal. While the core mechanics are easy to pick up, mastering them and venturing deeper into the abyss presents a rewarding challenge.
Shinsekai: Into the Depths is a captivating experience for gamers who enjoy exploration, atmospheric adventures, and a touch of challenge. The game’s stunning visuals, haunting soundtrack, and unique setting make it a worthwhile journey into the unknown.
If you’re looking for a visually stunning and atmospheric adventure diving game with a touch of challenge, Shinsekai: Into the Depths is definitely worth diving into.
Bioshock 1 and 2
STEAM / Nintendo Switch / MacOS / iOS
Bioshock is a first person shooter unfolding in a decaying underwater utopia of Rapture, a city built on the philosophy of Objectivism, where dreams of societal perfection curdled into a horrifying nightmare. Although you are not diving, the whole story plays off in this underwater city.
The atmosphere is the game’s strongest suit. Rapture is breathtakingly beautiful in its decay. Lush coral reefs cling to crumbling Art Deco buildings, and the constant murmur of leaking water and distant music creates a sense of haunting isolation. You’re not just fighting Splicers, the city’s deranged inhabitants, you’re unraveling the tragic story of Rapture’s downfall through scattered audio logs and environmental details.
The gameplay is a satisfying blend of action and RPG elements. You wield an arsenal of traditional weapons alongside plasmid-granted powers, allowing you to shoot lightning, set enemies ablaze, or even control their minds. These powers, combined with the strategic use of the environment, create a unique and dynamic combat experience.
The story unfolds organically, with more questions raised than answered initially. You piece together the narrative through audio logs, environmental details, and the occasional encounter with a surviving citizen, each fragment adding another layer to the complex web of Rapture’s history. This approach encourages exploration and rewards attentive players with a deeper understanding of the world and its characters.
BioShock is a masterclass in world-building, storytelling, and atmosphere. It’s a game that will stay with you long after the credits roll, prompting reflection on the dangers of unchecked ambition and the consequences of societal collapse.
Highly recommended for fans of immersive games, gripping narratives, and unique worlds.
SILT
STEAM / PlayStation 4 & 5 / Xbox
Silt isn’t your typical diving adventure game and instead of vibrant coral reefs and playful marine life, you descend into a murky, unsettling world where the secrets of the deep are as murky as the water itself. This side-scrolling puzzle-exploration game throws you into the role of a diver, tasked with unraveling the mysteries of a sunken city by possessing various aquatic creatures.
The game’s greatest strength lies in its atmosphere. The world is rendered in a beautifully haunting way, with muted colors and unsettling sound design that creates a constant sense of unease. Exploring the decaying structures and encountering the unsettling inhabitants of the depths is a truly unique experience.
The core gameplay revolves around possessing various sea creatures, each with unique abilities. You’ll control eels to squeeze through tight spaces, catfish to generate electrical fields, and even octopuses to manipulate objects and solve puzzles. The variety of creatures keeps the gameplay fresh, and the puzzles often require clever combinations of their abilities.
While Silt offers environmental storytelling through its visuals and subtle hints scattered throughout the world, it doesn’t hold your hand. The narrative is fragmented and open to interpretation, which will resonate with players who enjoy piecing together the story themselves. However, those seeking a more explicit narrative might find it lacking.
Be prepared for a more mature experience compared to the usual underwater fare. The game is also not very long (3 hours), so its great to pick up on sale before your next long haul flight.
Just a final note – Silt is not for everyone. It’s a slow burn, an atmospheric puzzle experience that thrives on its unique visuals, unsettling atmosphere, and unique possession mechanic. If you’re looking for a captivating and thought-provoking underwater adventure with a touch of the macabre, then Silt is definitely worth diving into. However, if you prefer a more lighthearted experience with a clear narrative, this might not be the game for you.
Beyond Blue
STEAM / Nintendo Switch / Xbox / PlayStation 4 / Apple Arcade
Beyond Blue isn’t your typical diving game. It ditches the oxygen tanks and frantic chases for a more contemplative experience, inviting you to explore the majesty of the underwater world with a scientist’s curiosity.
As Mirai, a deep-sea explorer, you pilot a sleek submersible, weaving through coral reefs, kelp forests, and the inky abyss. The game excels in capturing the tranquility of diving. Sunlight filters through the water, casting dappled patterns on the ocean floor. Schools of fish shimmer like living jewels, and the gentle hum of your submersible is the only constant companion.
Beyond Blue isn’t just about sightseeing, though. You will need to study the ocean’s delicate ecosystem. You’ll use advanced tools to scan creatures, identify species, and even sing along to whale songs. These mechanics, while not complex, add a layer of purpose to your exploration.
Beyond Blue isn’t without its flaws and the short playtime might leave some players wanting more. The narrative, while not groundbreaking, can be engaging although it was one weak point for us, being truly cringeworthy at times. As you uncover the secrets of the deep, you’ll encounter a cast of characters, each with their own perspective on humanity’s relationship with the ocean.
However, for those seeking a unique and relaxing diving experience, Beyond Blue is a worth considering (get it on sale). It’s a game that has an educational approach and will leave you with an appreciation for the wonders that lie beneath the waves.
Freediver: Triton Down (VR Game)
STEAM / PlayStation 4 / Meta Quest
Freediver: Triton Down throws you into a thrilling underwater escape room. As the sole survivor of a capsized research vessel, while diving (freediving) you must navigate the flooded corridors, using your wits and dwindling oxygen supply to find your way to the surface.
The VR immersion is the star of the game. The game masterfully captures the disorienting feeling of being underwater, with sunlight filtering through the murky depths and the constant gurgle of water filling your ears. Claustrophobic players should be warned, as navigating the ship’s tight spaces and debris-filled hallways can be genuinely anxiety-inducing.
While the core gameplay loop of swimming, searching for air pockets, and solving environmental puzzles is fairly straightforward, the constant pressure of your depleting oxygen meter adds a layer of urgency that keeps you on the edge of your seat. The urgency is further amplified by the excellent environmental storytelling, with scattered audio logs and personal effects piecing together the tragic events that led to the ship’s demise.
At only an hour, Freediver: Triton Down isn’t the longest experience, however, it delivers a tightly focused and memorable adventure that makes excellent use of the VR medium. If you’re looking for a short but intense VR experience that will leave you breathless (both figuratively and literally), Freediver: Triton Down is well worth diving into.
Overall, Freediver: Triton Down is a highly recommended VR experience that offers a unique blend of underwater immersion, suspense, and puzzle-solving.
TheBlu (VR Experience)
STEAM / Oculus Store
Another great VR title – First off, theBlu is not really a game but more of an experience. Using a VR headset you are transported to the heart of the ocean, where vibrant coral reefs teem with life and sunlight filters through the crystal-clear water.
It unfolds like a series of dives, each showcasing a unique underwater environment. Come face-to-face with a majestic humpback whale, or witness the bioluminescent ballet of deep-sea creatures. theBlu doesn’t hold your hand; it lets you explore at your own pace, fostering a sense of wonder and discovery as you encounter the diverse inhabitants of the ocean depths.
theBlu excels in creating a truly immersive diving experience and its a great way to share the magic of diving to non divers. The visuals are stunning, with detailed environments and lifelike creatures that bring the underwater world to life. The soundscape is equally impressive, with the gentle lapping of waves and the calls of marine life creating a sense of serenity and isolation.
As mentioned, theBlu is techncially not a game where unlike many games that focus on challenge or competition, theBlu is a meditative experience. There are no goals to complete, no enemies to defeat, just the opportunity to lose yourself in the beauty and tranquility of the ocean. It’s a perfect escape for anyone seeking a break from the stresses of everyday life.
theBlu is a must-try for anyone who owns a VR headset. It’s a beautiful and immersive experience that will leave you feeling awestruck by the wonders of the ocean. While the short playtime might leave some wanting more, theBlu’s captivating visuals, serene atmosphere, and focus on exploration make it a worthwhile journey for anyone seeking a tranquil escape.
Want to get started?
Looking at the list above you might have noticed that many of the titles (apart from the last two VR entries) are available on the Nintendo Switch.
The Nintendo Switch is a great all rounder and perfect when travelling or leaving home.
- Versatility: It seamlessly transforms from a home console to a portable device, letting you play on the go or on the big screen.
- Game Library: It boasts a massive library with popular titles from Nintendo and other developers
- Unique Features: The Joy-Con controllers offer innovative ways to play, like motion controls and detachable options for multiplayer.
- Accessibility: The user-friendly interface and diverse game selection make it approachable for gamers of all skill levels.
- Sales: Nintendo constantly have sales through their eshop featuring several of the titles listed here for as much as 60% off the full price, so keep an eye out for these.
