85
A gripping survival-horror adventure with Lovecraftian charm and high replay value. Even though the roguelite elements are kept more in the background.
80
DIVE or DIE - Children of Rain may not have an overly complex story or complicated gameplay routine, but it doesn't need those features as it more than makes up for it with its enthralling, haunting, underwater atmosphere and gameplay loop that will constantly have players diving again and again as they attempt to find every biome and collectible. It's a great 2D survival horror game to play, especially during a thunderstorm like I did, and for Drop Rate Studio's second game developed, it's a very impressive feat despite its few shortcomings.
60
Anyone in the mood for a Lovecraftian version of Dave the Diver—and who doesn't care for sushi anyway—should feel right at home and give Drop Rate's game a try. Despite the comparisons, Dive or Die is highly original and delivers a remarkably addictive pull.
8
It's an interesting concept, and the gameplay is engaging. Unfortunately, the game's progression is somewhat poorly designed. Several times, I lost my main divers due to a few bad dives, which, given the strict day limit, meant that 3-4 hours of gameplay were wasted. I understand that some people might be annoyed by this gameplay design but overall, it's an interesting game.
9
A thrilling mix of colony management and sidescrolling survival horror. The game is
clearly inspired by Darkest Dungeon, Dredge, and other popular lovecraftian indie games, and probably by Dave the Diver, though I haven't played that one myself. The diving expeditions are short and intense, and the underwater map is very well crafted. The game makes clever use of metroidvania-style mechanics, and does a great job easing you into the game wiithout it feeling boring or tedious. The management part of the game is simple, but fun. 9/10.
DIVE or DIE - Children of Rain
Released On:
Jul 21, 2026
Metascore
Generally Favorable
80
User score
Mixed or Average
6.9
My Score
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All Platforms
Metascore
Generally Favorable
80
80% Positive
4 Reviews
4 Reviews
20% Mixed
1 Review
1 Review
0% Negative
0 Reviews
0 Reviews
Jul 20, 2026
90
DIVE or Die: Children of Rain is a compact roguelike that delivers a tense and atmospheric experience through its striking visuals, music, and darkness. While exploring without a map can be challenging, clear objectives, meaningful upgrades, and the knowledge gained from each run make every attempt feel rewarding. Its tightly focused design respects your time, but be prepared for plenty of heart-pounding moments.
Jul 29, 2026
85
A gripping survival-horror adventure with Lovecraftian charm and high replay value. Even though the roguelite elements are kept more in the background.
Jul 20, 2026
84
We really enjoyed Dive or Die - Children of Rain, largely because it has a clear sense of identity. It doesn't simply copy the gameplay loop of Dave the Diver and slap a Lovecraftian coat of paint on it; instead, it steers the experience into more demanding, strategic, and unsettling territory. Players who enjoy optimizing resources, making sacrifices, and learning through trial and error will find it highly compelling. Conversely, those looking for a lighthearted underwater adventure with only a dash of horror will likely clash with its mechanics and unforgiving nature. It is a title that demands commitment, patience, and a degree of tolerance for frustration, but it rewards that effort with tense sessions, memorable choices, and a progression system that becomes increasingly addictive the deeper you go. It may not be for everyone, but if it clicks with you, you’ll likely find yourself drawn into its abyss for hours on end.
Jul 21, 2026
80
DIVE or DIE - Children of Rain may not have an overly complex story or complicated gameplay routine, but it doesn't need those features as it more than makes up for it with its enthralling, haunting, underwater atmosphere and gameplay loop that will constantly have players diving again and again as they attempt to find every biome and collectible. It's a great 2D survival horror game to play, especially during a thunderstorm like I did, and for Drop Rate Studio's second game developed, it's a very impressive feat despite its few shortcomings.
Jul 20, 2026
60
Anyone in the mood for a Lovecraftian version of Dave the Diver—and who doesn't care for sushi anyway—should feel right at home and give Drop Rate's game a try. Despite the comparisons, Dive or Die is highly original and delivers a remarkably addictive pull.
User score
Mixed or Average
6.9
43% Positive
3 Ratings
3 Ratings
43% Mixed
3 Ratings
3 Ratings
14% Negative
1 Rating
1 Rating
Jul 24, 2026
9
A thrilling mix of colony management and sidescrolling survival horror. The game is
clearly inspired by Darkest Dungeon, Dredge, and other popular lovecraftian indie games, and probably by Dave the Diver, though I haven't played that one myself. The diving expeditions are short and intense, and the underwater map is very well crafted. The game makes clever use of metroidvania-style mechanics, and does a great job easing you into the game wiithout it feeling boring or tedious. The management part of the game is simple, but fun. 9/10.
Jul 31, 2026
8
It's an interesting concept, and the gameplay is engaging. Unfortunately, the game's progression is somewhat poorly designed. Several times, I lost my main divers due to a few bad dives, which, given the strict day limit, meant that 3-4 hours of gameplay were wasted. I understand that some people might be annoyed by this gameplay design but overall, it's an interesting game.
SummaryExplore the Abyssal Pool, an underwater labyrinth of drowned ruins, lost idols, and mutated monsters. Lead a band of desperate survivors with Jack, a haunted man with a singular purpose: to save what's left of humanity. Evade or fight what lurks in the dark. And try to appease the Maker of Rain before he floods the world in his black ... Read More
Platforms:
- PC
Initial Release Date:Jul 21, 2026
Developer:
- Drop Rate Studio
Publisher:
