Fishbowl
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About Fishbowl
Fishbowl is a slice-of-life RPG developed by imissmyfriends.studio, released on April 1 2026 for PC PS5 Linux and Mac. It follows a month-long journey of reconnecting with family through video calls balancing work from home tasks and solving puzzles tied to childhood memories. The story emphasizes small moments like organizing digital photos or cooking meals while exploring themes of self-discovery. Its minimalist art style and slow pacing make it a quiet contrast to action-heavy titles. basically it’s about mundane routines that build into something meaningful over time.
Gameplay
You spend each day managing a routine: sending messages via a pixelated video call system, completing bite-sized tasks like sorting files or watering plants, and solving jigsaw-like puzzles that unlock flashbacks. Choices matter, responding to a parent’s comment can shift future interactions. The game runs in 20-30 minute sessions, with a calendar tracking progress toward 25 possible endings. Controls are simple but tactile, with drag-and-drop mechanics for most actions. While the pace is deliberate, some puzzle sections slow it down. The lack of time pressure lets you reflect on dialogue and decisions without stress.
What Players Think
PlayPile data shows 83% of players finish the game, with an average playtime of 15 hours. Community ratings average 7.2 out of 10, while critics gave it 8.9. The mood is mostly nostalgic and relaxing, though 32% of reviews mention mild frustration with puzzle repetition. One user wrote, “Feeling the weight of ignored messages was oddly accurate.” Critics praised the “gentle emotional core” but noted “undercooked side quests.” Achievement completion sits at 68% for 45 total, with “Complete 3 memory puzzles” being the most skipped.
PlayPile's Take
At $29.99 Fishbowl is a niche pick for players who enjoy introspective stories over fast action. It hits hardest if you value quiet character moments over combat or quests. The puzzles can feel tedious but are forgivable for the emotional payoff. With 45 achievements and a completion rate above average, it’s a low-stakes experience worth trying if you have a few evenings to spare. Not every choice lands, but the ones that do feel like eavesdropping on something real.
Game Modes
Single player
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Articles
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