I Am Fish

I Am Fish, being a physics-based platformer, leaves an indelible mark in the player's minds as the game puts them in the eyes (and fins) of four small fish trying to make their way back into the ocean. The game is a spiritual successor to I Am Bread and is developed by Bossa Studios, famous for its quirky, challenging, and rewarding mechanics. I Am Fish proves charming, humorous, and altogether engaging, but the temperamental controls can sometimes become frustrating. Nevertheless, if one works their way through the game, he/she would discover a different line of unique and rewarding experience that somehow combines adventure, puzzles, and chaotic gameplay under one big splash.

Gameplay – 7.5/10

The core of I Am Fish is navigating each fish through complex levels using a variety of movement mechanics. Each fish has distinct abilities:

• Goldfish rolls around in a glass bowl and serves as the all-around balanced character.
• Piranha can chomp through obstacles and cause destruction.
• Flying Fish can glide through the air, adding a vertical challenge.
• Pufferfish inflates to bounce and float in creative ways.
   

Unpredictability is injected into the game by the physics-based control, which can be regarded as an asset or a problem. Successfully rolling through busy streets, flowing rivers, and dangerous sewers gives satisfaction, while frustrating moments are felt when slight miscalculations cause immediate failures. The game follows a trial-and-error format; thus, if one is to succeed, persistence must set in. Players who relish games with challenging physics will truly enjoy I Am Fish, whereas players after a more relaxing experience may find it hard.

The level design is a truly wild mix, with hazards ranging from bustling streets to heights, to human-filled environments that form exhilarating obstacle courses. With the save system easing pains, some sections remain too punishing, especially at advanced levels. The game truly needs some level of adventure and unpredictability.

Graphics and Art Style - 8.5/10

I Am Fish is certainly a visual treat, with bright colors and cartoon styles, and environments that are lively and lovely. From the small detail of a cool pet store to city pipes and peaceful little ponds, all of them do feel immersive and are quite well-designed. Water physics and reflections look exceptionally good and realistic for such a merry game.

Fluid and charming animation makes every fish feel uniquely animated with personal character. Subtle visual detail like the water sloshing around inside a rolling fishbowl and the pufferfish puffing up lends extra life to the characters. It's quite clear Bossa Studios painstakingly created a realm that is nice-looking and fun to inhabit.

Sound & Music – 8/10 

The audio in I Am Fish is solely concerned with gameplay. It feels light-hearted, adventurous, and appropriately conveys the tension-and-whimsy atmosphere of the game. Every level features an upbeat score that manages to keep things fresh without becoming overly repetitive.

On the plus side, the sound effects are amazing. Splashes, water movement, glass crackling, and flopping fish noises all strengthen the immersion. The fish don’t speak, but they definitely communicate with grunts and responses. Human characters in the game have some funny banter, which adds to the overall comedic vibe.

The downside would be that some sound effects might get repetitive after some time, especially in levels that require a lot of retries. Still, it's a minor concern against an otherwise strong-audio experience.

Story & Atmosphere- 7/10

While the game does not concern itself with deep narratives, its premise remains charming and heartwarming. I Am Fish opens with four fishes huddling together happily in a pet shop before being part of some anthropogenic separations. One simple purpose: escape and re-unite in the ocean.

This story is told in a rather engaging manner through the environment and not cut scenes, allowing the players to piece together the adventure as they go. There are also many fun little moments along the way, human interactions, and plenty of funny oddities to keep the players entertained on their journey.

Albeit light, I Am Fish excels in atmosphere. A strong sense of adventure abounds along with ever increasing levels of challenge that breathe life into the entire world. There may not be the same emotional punch as elsewhere, but it is certainly fun-natured and matches the gameplay.

Replayability-7/10

There's some replay value in I Am Fish, for those souls who relish the mastery of difficult physics movement. There are collectibles, alternate paths, and different tactics for level completion, all of which entice players to try different routes.

Skill improvements, route efficiencies, and level completion times are all put to the test, and challenging players, speedrunners, and experimentalists will have such opportunities. Unfortunately, for more casual gamers, some frustratingly hard parts may deter them entirely from replaying levels.

Final Verdict – 7.5/10

I Am Fish is a delightfully relaxing, creative, and once in a while even maddening physics-based adventure that is great fun and quite a challenge! The unique oddball movement mechanics, bright and colorful visuals, and engaging yet artistic level designs all distinguish this title in some way from the platforming genre. Although the controls are punishing, and some difficulty spikes may test a player's patience, a rewarding and fun adventure awaits those who persevere.

If you enjoy games like Surgeon Simulator or I Am Bread, I Am Fish will be right up your alley. It’s a game that rewards patience, creativity, and persistence. If you’re up for a quirky, water-filled challenge, this is one adventure worth diving into! 🐠🌊