Game: Fishtronomy
Genre: Puzzle, Arcade
System: Steam (Windows)
Developer|Publisher: SplendidDog
Controller Support: No
Steam Deck: Playable
Price: US $2.99 | UK £2.49 | EU € 2,99
Release Date: December 7th, 2024
A review code was provided, and many thanks to SplendidDog.
Fishtronomy: Nothing Fishy About This Relaxing Puzzle Game
Fishtronomy is a charming and tranquil puzzle game that lets you fling glowing fish into the night sky to create constellations. It’s as cosy as it sounds, offering a low-pressure experience perfect for unwinding.
First Day on the Job
You play as a junior fishtronomer, yes, you read that right, tasked with decorating the night sky alongside your enthusiastic colleague, Phebe. If you’re tired of your usual 9-to-5 grind, this job will sound like a dream: you grab fish, aim them toward their designated stars (helpfully highlighted), and fling them into place. Complete a constellation, and you’re rewarded with a beautiful image of the stars.
It’s simple, wholesome, and strangely addictive. The gameplay captures that rare combination of being both relaxing and satisfying.
Flinging Fish with Precision
While the core mechanic is straightforward, the game spices things up with clever obstacles. Portals, shifting walls, and strategic blockades demand more thoughtful throws. Throw a fish too hard or at the wrong angle, and you risk knocking others out of place, turning your serene puzzle-solving into a chaotic comedy of errors. Watching fish careen wildly, of course, might be unintentional, but it’s definitely entertaining.
The challenges are light, and there’s no pressure to race against time. The fish can also be thrown as many times as needed to get the job done. If you’re stuck on a puzzle, you can simply skip it and move on, though figuring it out on your own is much more satisfying.
Easy Controls, Starry Charm
The controls are simple and intuitive, especially with a mouse. While I tested the game on the Steam Deck, I found the touch controls slightly less precise, though still enjoyable. This is definitely a game best played on a PC with a mouse for that seamless “grab-and-throw” action.
Visually, Fishtronomy nails its relaxing vibe. The graphics are bathed in a neon glow, with bright fish and stars set against a deep, calming backdrop. It has a retro charm that reminded me of ZX Spectrum games, minus the frustrating load times (and cassette tapes). The soothing presentation is paired with pleasant music that further enhances the meditative experience.
A Quick Dip into Tranquility
If there’s one criticism, it’s that Fishtronomy is quite short. Clocking in at under an hour left me wanting more constellations to create and fish to fling. That said, its low price makes it an easy recommendation, especially for a quiet evening of gaming.
Conclusion: A Gem Among the Stars
Fishtronomy is a delightful little puzzle game that doesn’t overstay its welcome. It’s great for those moments when you just want to relax, enjoy some light-hearted fun, and lose yourself in the gentle glow of a star-filled sky. Short but sweet, this is one game that proves you don’t need to stress to make a splash. A free demo is also available on Steam.
Final Verdict: I Like It 
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