Breakwaters

Breakwaters (2021) is an adventure set in an ever-changing oceanic world. Unlike other games, Breakwaters isn't satisfied with day-night and weather cycles, it stands out for the fluid mechanics of its water. You swim, sail, and fly to new islands using resources to build, craft, and survive. With online friends you build a home and defeat massive Titans.

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Play involves exploring the world on your own or with others. You soon discover the huge simulated ocean that presents both a challenge and opportunity to getting around. As you gather and refine crystals you can craft items and boats to aid your adventure. Many of these items interact with the ocean, revealing rich resources below.

The water play extends to other parts of the world. You can build structures that turn a valley into a lake or open the doors and flood the lowlands. Take care as you make these choices as they impact the land and your ability to farm, explore and adventure.

Then there are the Titans. These monsters come in different types: Turtle Titan, the Serpent Titan, and the Crab Titan. The Turtle Titan roams the ocean and causing massive waves that wash over islands and carry away anything in their path. The Serpent Titan stays near storms and causes large whirlpools which suck in anything above water.

The result is a game that feels fresh and manages to weave in its unique water play to the wider experience.

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Our examiner, Andy Robertson, first checked Breakwaters 2 years ago.