For years, mobile games have played a vital role in shaping the video game industry. When they first emerged, few could have predicted their global success. But mobile games have gone on to break boundaries, telling rich stories, delivering polished mechanics, and building a new generation of interactive experiences. Among them, mobile RPGs have stood out for their storytelling and depth. If you’re a fan of this genre, Dredge is a must-try title that brings something truly eerie and unforgettable to the table.
From Indie Darling to Mobile Hit
Originally released in 2023 by the small but talented team at Black Salt Games, Dredge quickly became one of that year’s standout indie hits. The game was published by the well-known Team17, and initially launched on eighth and ninth-gen consoles, PC, and Nintendo Switch. After widespread acclaim, the studio brought the game to mobile platforms on February 27, 2025.
Developed using the Unity engine, Dredge impressed players and critics alike with its quality. It currently holds a Metacritic score of 85, a remarkable achievement for an indie title. The mobile version, priced at $24.99, is available on Android via third-party websites, due to current distribution limitations.
A Haunting Story in the Middle of Nowhere
The game’s story begins with a lone fisherman arriving in the mysterious town of Greater Marrow, seeking a fresh start. The town seems peaceful at first, its residents kind and welcoming. But as the days pass, strange things begin to unfold. At night, the fog thickens, ghost ships emerge, and unspeakable horrors haunt the seas.
Through scattered writings and cryptic encounters, players uncover a dark mystery tied to the island—one that may change the fate of the fisherman forever. The narrative is short, but emotionally charged and perfectly paced for a mobile experience.
Gameplay: Fishing by Day, Surviving by Night
Dredge combines action-RPG elements with eerie survival mechanics and resource management. The game flows in a day-night cycle: during the day, players catch and sell fish, upgrade their boat, and progress through various tasks. But at night, the tone shifts dramatically. The protagonist suffers hallucinations, reliving terrifying visions that hint at the game’s deeper story.
Some fish only appear at night, forcing players to brave the dark waters despite the dangers. As the fog thickens, supernatural beings rise from the depths. Ghosts, sea monsters, and cursed waters turn simple fishing into a life-or-death struggle.
Each enemy has a weakness—some fear light, others shrink from heat. Players must continuously upgrade their ship to survive the growing threats. Selling rare fish earns more money, which can be invested in better engines, stronger lights, and protective equipment.
Smart Design and Addictive Progression
What sets Dredge apart is how it balances strategy, tension, and progression. The game encourages players to plan their actions carefully, deciding when to head out, what resources to gather, and how to avoid danger. Every choice matters, and a small mistake could lead to destruction—or discovery.
The permanent upgrades give a strong sense of progress, while the ever-present risk of the unknown keeps the adrenaline flowing. It’s a beautifully paced loop that’s perfect for mobile sessions, whether short or long.
A Darkly Beautiful World
Visually, Dredge strikes a unique tone. Its cartoonish but eerie art style captures the essence of a fog-filled nightmare. The environments are beautifully crafted, with dynamic lighting, gentle waves, and ghostly shadows that immerse you in the atmosphere. The lighting effects, in particular, are crucial—not just for survival, but for storytelling.
On the audio side, Dredge is a triumph. The soundtrack flows with calm melodies during the day, and transitions into ominous, tension-filled rhythms at night. Even when nothing is happening, the music maintains a sense of dread, keeping players alert and emotionally engaged.
Final Verdict: A Masterpiece on Mobile
Dredge is more than just another indie port. It’s a clever, gripping, and haunting RPG that fits perfectly on mobile. With its deep mechanics, memorable visuals, and chilling story, it delivers a rich experience that’s rare on the platform. Whether you play it solo for the mystery or stay for the fishing mechanics, Dredge is a mobile game that leaves a lasting impression.
