Japanese indie developer Chilla’s Art, famous for viral psychological horror hits like The Convenience Store and Shinkansen 0, is diving into new waters with the upcoming release of Umigari. Scheduled to launch on Steam on February 4, 2026, this title is described as a “very light” horror experience compared to the developer’s previous work. While the studio is synonymous with terrifying jumpscares and urban legends, Umigari leans more into a surreal, uncanny atmosphere centered around a first-person harpoon fishing loop. Players take on the role of a fisherman in the foggy, mysterious waters off the coast of Japan, where the sea holds much more than just standard aquatic life.
Gameplay and Exploration
Umigari presents itself as a specialized fishing simulator but quickly introduces the bizarre elements that Chilla’s Art fans expect. The core gameplay loop revolves around the following mechanics:
- Harpoon Hunting: Players must skillfully use a harpoon to catch a variety of fish, requiring precise timing and accuracy.
- Economic Progression: Your catch can be sold to odd, fish-like fishmongers located on various islands. The earned cash is used to buy fuel and upgrade your vessel’s gear, speed, and capacity.
- Deep-Sea Discovery: As you venture further from the shore and into uncharted territories, the environment becomes increasingly unsettling. The fish evolve into house-sized sea creatures and strange, two-legged entities that defy logic.
- Atmospheric Survival: Navigating the dense fog requires careful resource management, as players must ensure they have enough fuel and equipment to return to safety after exploring the ocean’s darkest corners.
Launch Details and Expectations
The game has been highly anticipated since its demo release during Steam Next Fest in late 2025. Chilla’s Art recently clarified the release date on social media, correcting an earlier announcement to confirm the Pacific Time launch on February 4. With an estimated playtime of three to five hours, Umigari is designed to be a short but impactful experience that blends the relaxing nature of a fishing sim with the creeping dread of the unknown. Although it is not a “hardcore” horror game, the developer warns that things will get “stranger the more you explore,” suggesting a mystery that may leave players with more questions than answers.
Steam: https://store.steampowered.com/app/3772960/UMIGARI/
