Review: The Fish Dies in the End (iPhone/iPod Touch)

The Fish Dies in the End is a game where you play a fish—a fish that, in fact, dies in the end. There is more to this game than dying in the end and it is a surprising bit of fun, if a little on the kiddie-themed side. The basic gameplay is a familiar, "get as far as you can while avoiding obstacles," style of play as you control a fish attempting to avoid other fish and dangerous plants. It's very simple; touching the screen makes the character go higher and letting go makes him go down—that's what she said—and it all works rather well, but the game's downfall is its lack of polish.

The visuals are extremely basic and lack character. I love fish and believe there is a ridiculous amount of beauty to be found in their numerous habitats, but none of that exists in this game. It takes the fish theme and creates a very plain style and it's hard for me to enjoy looking at the game for extended periods of time. That being said, children may love the simplistic, cartoony style and the music feels one hundred percent directed towards those young whippersnappers.

There is fun to be had if you can get past the art and overall lack of polish and the game includes Game Center with leaderboard and achievement support—something I always appreciate. I would definitely recommend the game for parents looking for a family-friendly game—don't let the non family-friendly name mislead you—and the dollar price tag makes it far less of a gamble. P.S. How can you say no to a game with a title as lovely as 'The Fish Dies in the End?'

The Fish Dies in the End (iPhone/iPod Touch -- $0.99)