The big day has come for Don’t Sink! OK, not the big day, it’s not released released yet, but it did start its way in Early Access on Steam.
Don’t Sink is a great example of how good art changes your perception of a game. It’s hard to believe just a month ago the game was full of what we lovingly call ‘programer art’ (a disservice, really, to all the coders that also take the time to become amazing artists).
The coder/designer Sebastian Nigro tried their luck on Kickstarter back in September—unsuccessfully, and I’d dare say visuals play a big role in crowdfunding endeavors.
Luckily teamwork is just as great solution as learning to draw to get your eye candy in place and Sebastian joined forces with Daniel ‘Thirteen’ Marques to complete the team, together with Chris Anselmo on the audio side. I love the art direction Daniel took (a bit of Ridiculous Fishing vibe) and the game looks absolutely inviting, helping to make its gameplay shine.
Don’t Sink is an RPG/town management game so I’d put it right at the side of Regions of Ruin that I had a lot of fun with last month. Instead of Dwarf Fortress and Kingdom-inspired fantasy setting, we roam the ocean alike Sea Dogs and Sid Meier's Pirates! ARRRR! In the process we defend our ship, claim an island, and build up a town and its population—at least after first impressions. As its early access status suggests, Don’t Sink’s potential will develop over time.
If you want to be part of the journey, the game’s available for Windows on Steam for $9 (10% off).