Otterly Lost is the Sub-Aquatic Escape You Need This September

If you have been feeling a bit overwhelmed lately, Soulworks Interactive might have just the antidote. The developer’s upcoming open-world title, Otterly Lost, is shaping up to be a tranquil, sub-aquatic escape when it launches on PC this September.

The game’s premise is straightforward but effective: you play as Otto, an otter swept away from home. Your journey back involves forging friendships with local creatures, which in turn grants you new abilities and items. In one instance from the demo, a pirate-themed crab gifts you a spade for digging up worms, which can then be traded with a local fisherfrog for cosmetics and clam shells—the game's primary currency. These interactions are central to the experience, even extending to helping a giant turtle prepare a meal in exchange for wisdom to guide your path.

Exploring the Island Life

The world of Otterly Lost feels vibrant and compact, reminiscent of games like A Short Hike. Whether you are searching for treasures and unique rocks underwater or floating peacefully along the surface, the game offers a sense of serenity that is hard to find elsewhere. While you can move at a relaxed pace, there is an option to dash, though you will need to hunt for specific items to bolster Otto’s stamina, as the protagonist isn't exactly an Olympic swimmer.

Traversal is clearly a key component of the gameplay loop. Initially, Otto is limited to basic swimming and hopping, though you can use environmental aids like bouncy mushrooms or underwater jet streams to reach higher ground. As you explore, you will encounter more traversal methods—including tips from a sunglasses-touting goat at a rock climbing wall—that help you conquer the island's terrain.

A Personal Experience

Spending time with the Otterly Lost demo reveals a game with a lovely flow. Between collecting rocks and customizing Otto with items like a tiny sailor hat or a dolphin fin, the game encourages a slower, more rewarding pace of play. It serves as a gentle reminder to take a breather and rely on your friends when life's currents become too tumultuous.

If you want to see if Otto’s journey is the right fit for your library, you can check out the demo right now on the Otterly Lost Steam page ahead of its full release this September.