In the continuous flow of games added to the PlayStation Plus catalog, some titles go under the radar. And yet, this month, a real gem is hidden there: Dave the Diver. Offered free to PS Plus subscribers, this independent game developed by Mintroket surprises as much by its richness as by its lifespan.
Far from being a simple retro curiosity, this title skillfully combines management simulation and underwater narrative adventure. And if you thought you could tour it in a few sessions, think again: it will take you more than 50 hours to explore everything it has to offer.
False simplicity for real immersion
At first glance, Dave the Diver displays a rather classic pixel-art aesthetic. But beneath that surface lies surprisingly deep gameplay. The player plays Dave, a diver with busy days: exploring a mysterious ocean by day, managing a sushi restaurant by night.
Each game session alternates between phases of exploration, harvesting rare fish, scripted mini-quests and management of a growing establishment. All in a light but immersive atmosphere, with well-balanced humor and endearing characters.
A generous lifespan with no downtime
According to data from HowLongToBeat, it takes around 25 hours to complete the main story. Allow around ten additional hours for the side quests, and more than 50 hours to reach 100% completion.
Added to this are free DLCs already available as well as upcoming content, further strengthening the replayability of the title. An impressive performance for an independent game, which places it at the level of certain much more ambitious RPGs.
One of the best PS Plus choices for early 2026
While the PlayStation Plus games of the month often oscillate between large, aging licenses and small, forgettable productions, Dave the Diver stands out. Its critical reception is excellent, with an average score of 90/100 on OpenCritic, and a unanimous recommendation from testers.
Initially released in June 2023 on PC, the game now benefits from a fluid and optimized PS5 version, without microtransactions or invasive systems. It is aimed at everyone: fans of chill games, fans of simulation or explorers of atypical universes.
Why you should launch it now
Dave the Diver is the perfect compromise between a relaxing game and an engaging challenge. It doesn’t require 100 hours of investment like classic RPGs, but offers much more than just a side game. Its balanced progression, varied mechanics and unique atmosphere make it a rare experience. And since it’s included in your PS Plus subscription, now is the time to give it a chance. You might just dive in and never come out again.