David Jaffe recently praised Dave the Diver on its first anniversary with a post on X. Renowned for his work on God of War, Jaffe says it’s one of the most enjoyable games of the past decade. Jaffe’s enthusiasm was evident as he overlooked the game’s frequent use of fat jokes.
He praised the game for its engaging gameplay and unique concept. His admiration for the game’s IP and mechanics highlighted the balance it strikes between roguelike spearfishing exploration and managing a sushi restaurant, creating an unexpectedly delightful experience.
God of War’s David Jaffe Praises Dave The Diver
The Indie hit offers a rich blend of activities that keep players hooked. Dave is a diver who is approached by his friend Cobra to open up a sushi restaurant. And that is the main plot of the game.
Players dive to capture fish and aquatic life for the sushi restaurant they manage. While it may seem like a weird concept, it was an absolute hit. It is usually the simplicity of Indie games that makes them a hit for players
The game did face criticism for its humor, particularly the frequent fat jokes aimed at the protagonist, Dave. He is on the thicker side in terms of body size, and the game does not hesitate to remind you of that.
One of the most enjoyable games of the last 10 years. Easily.
— David Jaffe (@davidscottjaffe) June 26, 2024
Even with all the fat shaming.
But goodness, I love this game and I adore the IP and it's just so fucking great and where are my statues and action figures! Don't want a plushie!!! 🙂 https://t.co/sWHIiqAcOG
Despite the fat-shaming jokes, the game is simple and fun enough to the point that the incredibly fun gameplay overshadows its drawbacks. The balance between the game’s tense underwater exploration and frantic restaurant management creates a unique and satisfying loop.
The Humor of The Game is Definitely a Hit or Miss
Despite its charming gameplay, the game got players talking about its frequent fat-shaming jokes. Some players, like those on the game’s official Reddit, argue that these jokes are excessive and detract from the game’s enjoyment.
While the humor is intended to be lighthearted, many feel that it crosses the line into unnecessary cruelty, raising questions about the impact of such content on players.
The development team acknowledged the feedback on a Steam discussion and explained that cultural differences might have influenced the reaction to the game’s humor.
The game is ultimately the sum of its parts and it really has some good stuff going for it. It might not have won any awards but its can definitely be a contender for one of the better Indie games that exists.
Dave the Diver stands out as a highly enjoyable game with a unique mix of activities that have won over many fans, including David Jaffe. However, its humor, particularly the fat-shaming jokes is a hit or miss.
Did the humor of the game land for you? Let us know in the comments below!
