There’s something uniquely captivating about marine exploration games. On one hand, you get that deep-sea atmosphere — the silence, the pressure, the mystery. On the other, there’s the thrill of exploring a world that still holds countless secrets. That’s what makes games set beneath the waves so immersive and unforgettable.
If you’re into deep-sea diving, sea life, ocean exploration, or uncovering the mysteries of the abyss, this list is for you. We’ve rounded up some of the best underwater games — titles that truly capture the spirit of marine discovery.
We focused on games with strong atmosphere or storytelling, mechanics built around exploring underwater spaces, and a touch of simulation. Here are the best underwater games that bring the ocean’s depth and wonder to life.
| Game | Release | Genre | Developer | Video | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | Subnautica | 2017-10-31 | Indie & Adventure | Unknown Worlds Entertainment | |
 | ABZU | 2016-08-02 | Puzzle & Simulator | Giant Squid | |
 | Barotrauma | 2019-06-05 | Indie & Strategy | FakeFish | |
 | Beyond Blue | 2020-06-11 | Adventure & Simulator | E-Line Media | |
 | SOMA | 2015-09-21 | Adventure & Puzzle | Frictional Games | |
 | Silent Hunter III | 2005-03-15 | Strategy & Simulator | Ubisoft | |
 | DAVE THE DIVER | 2022-10-27 | Exploration & Strategy | MINTROCKET | |
 | Diluvion Resubmerged | 2017-02-02 | Role-playing (RPG) & Strategy | Arachnid Games | |
 | Aquanox Deep Descent | 2020-10-16 | Role-playing (RPG) & Shooter | Digital Arrow | |
 | World Of Diving | 2014-08-26 | Indie & Simulator | Vertigo Games | |
 | UBOAT | 2019-04-30 | Simulator & Indie | Deep Water Studio | |
 | Narcosis | 2017-03-28 | Simulator & Indie | Honor Code, Inc. |
Subnautica
| Release date: | 2018-01-23 |
| Genre: | Adventure & Indie |
| Developer: | Unknown Worlds Entertainment |
Subnautica is a cornerstone of underwater exploration games.
You play as a lone survivor stranded on an alien ocean planet, where every square meter hides something fascinating — from vibrant coral reefs to pitch-black depths filled with danger. Your goal? Survive, study the ecosystem, and find a way to escape.
It’s atmospheric, beautifully designed, and carries a strong sense of isolation. Add crafting, survival mechanics, and base-building into the mix, and you’ve got a game that stays with you long after the credits roll.
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ABZU
| Release date: | 2016-08-02 |
| Genre: | Puzzle & Simulator |
| Developer: | Giant Squid |
ABZÛ leans more toward art than simulation — but it absolutely deserves a spot on this list.
It’s a visual meditation on diving and marine ecosystems. You play a mysterious diver exploring breathtaking underwater realms, discovering the beauty of aquatic life.
There’s no combat, no survival — just gorgeous music, stunning visuals, and a deep sense of peace. ABZÛ is the perfect pick if you’re looking for a relaxing, meditative experience.
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Barotrauma
| Release date: | 2019-06-05 |
| Genre: | Simulator & Strategy & Adventure & Indie |
| Developer: | FakeFish |
Barotrauma takes underwater games to a more chaotic level.
You’re part of a submarine crew navigating the oceans of Europa — Jupiter’s icy moon. Expect alien sea creatures, system malfunctions, and even crew betrayals. It’s not exactly a calm voyage.
It combines submarine simulation with survival horror and a dash of dark humour. In co-op mode, it’s pure underwater mayhem.
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Beyond Blue
| Release date: | 2020-06-11 |
| Genre: | Simulator & Adventure & Indie |
| Developer: | E-Line Media |
Beyond Blue is inspired by BBC and National Geographic documentaries.
You play as a marine biologist using futuristic tech to study whales, dolphins, and other ocean creatures.
This is a calm, educational experience filled with real-world science, recorded footage, and facts. There’s no combat here — just a love for the ocean and everything in it.
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SOMA
| Release date: | 2015-09-21 |
| Genre: | Puzzle & Adventure & Indie |
| Developer: | Frictional Games |
SOMA takes place in an abandoned research station at the bottom of the ocean.
You wake up alone, disoriented, and surrounded by machines that feel… disturbingly human.
It’s a psychological horror game that skips the jump scares and goes for slow-burning dread and philosophical questions about identity and consciousness.
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Silent Hunter III
| Release date: | 2005-03-15 |
| Genre: | Simulator & Strategy |
| Developer: | Ubisoft |
This one’s a classic.
Silent Hunter III takes you back to WWII, where you command a German U-boat hunting Allied convoys.
Even years after release, it still has a loyal player base thanks to mods and a passionate community. It’s a must-play for fans of tactical, realistic submarine games.
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Dave the Diver
| Release date: | 2022-10-27 |
| Genre: | Role-playing (RPG) & Simulator & Adventure |
| Developer: | MINTROCKET |
Dave the Diver is hands-down the most bonkers game on this list.
You play as Dave — a part-time diver, part-time sushi bar owner. During the day, you dive for exotic fish; at night, you run a bustling restaurant.
It’s full of charm, wacky characters, and unexpected story twists. The mix of light exploration and restaurant management, all wrapped in beautiful pixel art, makes it challenging to put down.
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Underwater games aren’t just about hyperrealistic sims — they’re also about storytelling, discovery, and atmosphere. From horror and survival to adventures and chill dives, the titles on this list offer a wide range of styles and experiences. If you love the ocean and the thrill of uncovering the unknown, you’re bound to find something here that speaks to you!