Fishing minigames have become a ubiquitous feature in video games, appearing in titles ranging from action-adventure games like The Legend of Zelda and Hades to RPGs like Persona and strategy titles like Fire Emblem. This widespread inclusion has sparked debate about their necessity and design, prompting an examination of what makes these digital pastimes so compelling.
For many, the appeal lies in the meditative quality of fishing. Real-life anglers often describe the activity as peaceful and a way to recharge from a busy life, a sentiment echoed by players of virtual fishing. This sense of calm can be punctuated by the tension of a bite and the subsequent struggle to reel in a catch, creating a balance that many find rewarding. For some, like game designer May Gardens, who specializes in ocean fishing, the virtual representations often miss the mark, focusing more on freshwater casting techniques than the trolling and jigging she experiences. She hopes to one day capture her specific fishing style in a game of her own.
Stardew Valley's fishing minigame is frequently cited as a prime example of the format done well. It effectively conveys the give-and-take of reeling in a fish and allows players to learn to identify different fish by their behavior on the line. Other praised examples include fishing in Final Fantasy 14 and Sea of Thieves.
Some players find fishing minigames to be an ideal low-investment activity, perfect for multitasking, such as while watching something on a second monitor. This holds true for the "FISH!" world in VRChat, which offers a vast number of unique fish and a progression system, serving as a fulfilling distraction that can be both soothing and engaging.
Opinions vary on when a fishing minigame is appropriate. For tense or stressful games, a fishing minigame can serve as a welcome moment of relief, as seen in Hades or Red Dead Redemption 2. Conversely, in calm, cozy games, it can add a layer of challenge, as in Stardew Valley or Animal Crossing. However, some argue that fishing minigames can disrupt the flow of games where every moment counts, citing Outer Wilds as an example where it could detract from the core gameplay loop.
Beyond simulation, humor also plays a role in the enjoyment of fishing minigames. Daphne Sophinos, project lead on Beatblock, believes that comedic elements, such as the dad jokes accompanying catches in Animal Crossing, significantly enhance the experience. The juxtaposition of photorealistic fish with cartoon characters in AR Games on the Nintendo 3DS also exemplifies this creative use of humor.
Despite their popularity, some developers and players feel that fishing minigames are becoming stagnant, often relying on repetitive mechanics like keeping a bobber within a bar or simple button presses. There is a desire for more innovation and experimentation in how fish are caught.
Designing effective fishing minigames involves careful consideration of player experience and integration with the larger game. In The Elder Scrolls Online, the fishing system was designed as a relaxing, collectible activity that also serves as a gateway for achievements. Its implementation includes regional fish types and encourages player proximity for rarer catches. For the upcoming indie farming sim Grave Seasons, the development team is focusing on simplicity and satisfying audiovisual feedback, drawing inspiration from early 2000s minigames.
Bungie's approach to fishing in Destiny 2 aimed to align with the game's core loop of shooting enemies and collecting loot. The system is broken down into four categories: Preparation (gathering bait and resources), Performance (the act of catching and reeling), Payoff (the loot received), and Prestige (displaying trophies in a personal aquarium). This design reinforces the game's social aspects, rewarding nearby players for legendary catches and encouraging a communal sense of accomplishment.
Ultimately, the success of a fishing minigame often hinges on its ability to serve the broader goals of the game it inhabits, whether that be pacing, social interaction, or tonal consistency. This adaptability allows fishing minigames to remain a diverse and cherished element across a wide spectrum of video game experiences.