Indie project Scale the Depths began as a small game jam experiment centered around scaling fish, but it has unexpectedly become one of the most unusual indie success stories on Steam in recent years. Developed by the Canadian studio Glass Gecko Games alongside publisher Pretty Soon, the game launches on the platform on May 28, 2026 after attracting more than 210,000 demo players, earning a 97% positive rating, and reaching nearly 115,000 wishlists, in addition to millions of YouTube views and even a wave of AI generated knockoffs.

What begins as a seemingly simple fishing routine gradually turns into an experience built around precision, management, and exploration. Players catch fish through careful movement, prepare ingredients using scaling and cutting mechanics, and serve eccentric customers to earn money, unlock better equipment, and venture into increasingly strange underwater regions. The gameplay loop combines resource optimization with fast decision making, creating a casual but highly addictive progression system.

Among the main highlights are the unusual tools used to prepare the fish, including butter knives, katanas, and other increasingly questionable utensils. Moving too quickly can damage the quality and value of the catch, adding a constant sense of risk and reward to every task. The title also features peculiar customers ranging from extremely picky birds to mythical creatures that players would hardly expect to encounter at a restaurant operated by a tiny robotic fishmonger.

The adventure takes players across four locations inspired by real world places such as Loch Ness and Point Nemo, encouraging exploration through hidden paths, messages inside bottles, underwater treasures, and narrative fragments scattered beneath the ocean. In addition, players will be able to upgrade fishing rods, hooks, boats, and knives while also customizing the appearance of the mechanical protagonist throughout the journey.