I have a penchant for fishing games, a sentiment that might raise eyebrows among the PC Gamer team, yet I remain steadfast in my appreciation. Fishing offers a serene escape, a much-needed respite from the relentless chaos of more intense gaming experiences. However, there are moments when a simple fishing trip with Willie in Stardew Valley doesn’t quite satisfy my cravings. This is where Steam’s Fishing Fest, a limited-time sale dedicated to fishing-themed games, and the charming title Scale the Depths come into play.
Exploring the Depths
Scale the Depths presents a delightful pixel-art fishing adventure where players are tasked with catching fish and preparing them for a diverse clientele. Interestingly, these patrons are not human; instead, they include an array of whimsical creatures visiting your boat on the iconic Loch Ness. Expect to encounter otters, ospreys, selkies, kelpies, and even the elusive Loch Ness monster, especially if your fishing skills are on point.
Each creature has unique dietary preferences—while a few small fish might suffice for an otter, the legendary Nessie demands a substantial feast. Your mission is to ensure that all guests leave satisfied and well-fed. However, this isn’t merely an act of charity; each patron compensates you for their meal, allowing you to reinvest your earnings into upgrading your fishing gear. This straightforward cycle of earning and upgrading is what makes the game so engaging.
As I embarked on my fishing escapades, I quickly transformed into a well-oiled machine, seamlessly catching, preparing, and selling fish as if I were a seasoned fisherman regaling tales of mythical sea creatures. The only hurdle in my journey toward becoming a fishing legend lies in mastering the art of catching fish.
In Scale the Depths, fishing is not a passive endeavor; it requires an active pursuit. Players control their fishing line to chase after their desired catch, although the controls can be somewhat tricky. Instead of simply following the mouse, you navigate using the A and D keys. While this works well for lateral movements, executing a 180-degree turn or a full circle can be a challenge, often leading to a momentary lapse in coordination. Admittedly, this is more a reflection of my own skill level than any flaw in the game. Fortunately, upgrading your gear does make the hunt for fish a bit more manageable.
Upgrading Your Gear
Within the in-game shop, players can enhance several essential items. Upgrades include a fishing rod that increases hook speed and line length, a hook that boosts the damage fish incur, a knife that simplifies the preparation process, and an expanded inventory size. The most beneficial upgrade is undoubtedly the longer fishing line, which opens up new depths to explore.
Diving deeper into the waters reveals not only larger fish but also levers that unlock new areas, along with treasures and messages in bottles. As you venture into these new locations, you’ll encounter more substantial catches. While minnows are plentiful near the surface, more formidable fish like Atlantic Salmon, Northern Pike, and Ferox Trout await in the depths, ready to satisfy your patrons’ appetites. The ultimate prize, however, is the Beithir—a mythical serpent-like dragon from Scottish folklore, known to dwell in remote caves and lochs. Its impressive size makes it a feast fit for even the most ravenous customers.
Ultimately, after navigating the depths, capturing legendary creatures, and catering to the residents of Loch Ness, I found myself upgrading my equipment to include the Iron Rod, Harpoon, Zweihander, and a plastic crate. Each enhancement brings me one step closer to realizing my dream of becoming a seasoned fisherman.
