The nature of indie game development is ever-evolving, which means that we can expect to see games that incorporate the theme of the pandemic in the months and years to come. One example of this is Fishbowl, a game that explores themes of grief and self-discovery in a state of isolation. The game’s demo version shows promise in its ability to sensitively depict complex human emotions.

Developed by a two-person team from India known as imissmyfriends, Fishbowl tells the story of Alo, a 21-year-old woman who has recently moved to a new city after securing a new job as a video editor. While adjusting to her new surroundings, Alo is also grappling with the grief associated with the loss of her grandmother. To overcome her grief, players will need to navigate Alo’s daily life in making decisions that will lead her to self-discovery. Will she shun away her feelings? Or will she face them and become a better person? That’s for you to decide.

New City, Same Baggage

The demo for Fishbowl allows players to experience the challenges and emotions that Alo faces as she deals with grief and the pressure of starting a new chapter in her life, in isolation for a month. Although the demo only covers the first day of Alo’s new life, the gameplay is quite diverse.

The day starts with Alo talking to her mother on the phone, and players must choose how she responds. The conversation isn’t particularly noteworthy, but it effectively conveys the characters’ inner emotions without any verbal communication. Alo doesn’t say much about her grandmother’s passing, which may indicate that she’s not yet comfortable with the topic.

Most of the demo gameplay happens in Alo’s new home. Players can interact with objects, uncover memories from the past, and help Alo with her daily self-care activities or job. One mini-game involves video editing and requires players to be quick and focused as they must match files efficiently. It’s challenging yet enjoyable, and there’s no need to achieve a perfect score since Alo is still new. Although Alo didn’t feel that way.

To make the flashback scene interesting, there’s a puzzle inventory-shuffling mini-game where Alo unpacks her belongings related to her passed loved one. Players will find a long-forgotten childhood fish toy that triggers Alo’s childhood memory and helps her recall happier times.

Emotional Ride

The dream scene is the highlight for me throughout the demo. There is no introduction to what’s happening; you find yourself in a dark, blank space with objects appearing that you can click on to reveal hints about Alo’s past. As you move forward, the memories become more painful, delving deeper into the loss of her grandmother. The tone feels empty but not scary, and the slower she gets as she walks, subtly conveying her inner struggles to face what seems to be her deepest fear. It’s a simple but beautiful development in the story.

The pixel graphics and lo-fi tracks create a welcoming visual experience that complements the narrative and gameplay of Fishbowl. The sound of raindrops and chill lo-fi beats help to amplify the whole setting without being overwhelming. If you just happen to relax around the house listening to the soundtracks, definitely go for it!

It’s still too early for me to give a concrete review of Fishbowl, but so far, I have found that the demo successfully conveys the emotional gravity of the narrative through its descriptive dialogue, gameplay, and design. Emotions can be a roller coaster ride, and Alo’s story is just about to take off.

The Fishbowl demo is now available for PlayStation 5 and PC via Steam.