The Epic Games Store continues its holiday tradition of giving away free games, and this Christmas Eve offering is a real catch: Dredge, the critically acclaimed horror fishing RPG. Available for free until December 25th at 11:00 am ET, this is a deal EGS members won’t want to miss.
Developed by Black Salt Games and released in 2023, Dredge masterfully blends RPG elements, horror themes, and the surprisingly engaging world of fishing. While this combination may seem unusual, the game has garnered overwhelmingly positive reviews on platforms like Steam, with thousands of players praising its unique gameplay and captivating atmosphere.
This free giveaway offers players a chance to experience the base game at no cost. For those eager to delve deeper into the mysteries of Dredge, two expansions, The Iron Rig and The Pale Reach, are available for purchase on the Epic Games Store for $12.99 each. These add-ons expand the game’s world and offer new challenges for seasoned fishermen and horror enthusiasts alike.
Exploring the Depths of Dredge: Gameplay and Story
Dredge places you in the role of a fisherman navigating a mysterious archipelago. Your mission: to explore remote islands, plumb the depths for unusual creatures, and uncover the secrets hidden beneath the waves.
The core gameplay loop involves fishing, upgrading your boat, and selling your catch to the locals. As you progress, you’ll encounter strange occurrences and unravel a sinister narrative that adds a chilling layer to the seemingly peaceful fishing experience.
Unraveling the Mysteries: Quests and Secrets
Each island in the Dredge archipelago offers unique quests and opportunities. By completing these quests and interacting with the locals, you’ll piece together the history of each region and discover the dark secrets that lurk beneath the surface.
But be warned: exploring the depths can be dangerous. The game emphasizes a day-night cycle, and venturing out after dark can lead to encounters with terrifying creatures and unsettling events. Managing your time and resources is crucial for survival in the world of Dredge.
Upgrading Your Vessel: Equipment and Exploration
As you earn money from selling your catches, you can upgrade your fishing trawler with better equipment. This allows you to access deeper areas, explore further reaches of the archipelago, and discover rarer and more valuable fish.
The upgrade system adds a layer of strategic depth to the gameplay, encouraging players to explore and expand their fishing capabilities.
What’s Next for Epic Games Store?
While the Christmas Day free game remains a mystery, Epic Games Store has a history of offering a particularly compelling title on Christmas Day. Stay tuned for updates on what free game awaits tomorrow. In the meantime, be sure to grab your free copy of Dredge and experience the chilling depths of this unique horror fishing adventure.
Dredge: A Synopsis
Dredge is a single-player fishing adventure with a sinister undercurrent. Captain your fishing trawler to explore a remote archipelago known as “The Marrows.” Discover over 125 unique deep-sea creatures, upgrade your boat, and unravel the dark secrets of the islands. Complete quests, interact with the locals, and beware the dangers that lurk in the dark. While the base game is free, two DLC expansions, The Iron Rig and The Pale Reach, are available for purchase.
