Call of the Wild: The Angler

72%
Game Brain Score Based on 2,584 reviews
  • graphics
  • gameplay
  • story
Call of the Wild: The Angler Game Cover
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"Call of the Wild: The Angler" is an immersive fishing simulation game set in a vast open world. Players can explore diverse environments, discover new species, and improve their angling skills through realistic casting and reeling mechanics. The game also offers a multiplayer mode for cooperative and competitive fishing experiences.

  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Steam Deck
  • Windows
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Cloud
  • Epic Games
  • Play​Station
  • Xbox
  • Xbox Game Pass
  • x_box_cloud_gaming
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

72%
Audience ScoreBased on 2,584 reviews
graphics124 positive mentions
optimization31 negative mentions
  • The game offers a relaxing and immersive fishing experience with beautiful graphics and expansive open-world maps.
  • The fishing mechanics are enjoyable, allowing players to explore different techniques and tackle setups.
  • The developers are actively working on updates and improvements, showing commitment to enhancing the game over time.
  • The game suffers from performance issues, including low frame rates and crashes, even on high-end PCs.
  • There is a lack of variety in fish species and fishing techniques, making the gameplay feel repetitive and limiting.
  • The multiplayer system is poorly implemented, making it difficult to play with friends and often resulting in connectivity issues.
  • graphics377 mentions

    The graphics of the game receive mixed reviews, with many praising the stunning visuals and beautiful landscapes, while others criticize the water effects and overall graphical fidelity as subpar compared to similar titles. Some players report significant performance issues and graphical glitches, particularly with water rendering, which detracts from the overall experience. Despite these criticisms, there is a consensus that the game has potential for improvement with future updates.

    • “Stunning game and amazing graphics.”
    • “The graphics are stunning.”
    • “The graphics are amazing, movement of the fish, jumping when hooked, or just jumping, as if to try to catch flies, then the realistic looks of the surroundings, brilliant.”
    • “The graphics are horrible and I couldn't get past 40fps with awful frame times.”
    • “Graphics are a horrendous downgrade from COTW, the level of detail is non-existent, you can tell that there was no passion in the actual fishing.”
    • “The graphics are atrocious compared to what we were promised, the performance is surprisingly bad and connecting with friends doesn't work properly.”
  • gameplay332 mentions

    The gameplay of this fishing game has received mixed reviews, with many praising its beautiful graphics and enjoyable mechanics, while others criticize the fishing mechanics as simplistic and clunky. Players appreciate the game's relaxing atmosphere and the variety of fishing methods, but express disappointment over issues like poor boat physics, lack of depth in fishing mechanics, and a need for better tutorials. Overall, while the game shows potential and has improved since its launch, significant improvements are still needed to enhance the fishing experience and gameplay depth.

    • “On the topic of gameplay, this game is nearly flawless and has come a long way from where it all originally started.”
    • “Great fishing mechanics, stunning visuals, and incredible gameplay; given this game is still very early in its life, it will only continue to get better.”
    • “The gameplay loop is fun and relaxing; for the price point, I get enough content that I feel satisfied with it for now, and I can look forward to more content later down the line.”
    • “The fishing mechanics are so half-baked it isn't even remotely acceptable; this is at best a pre-alpha closed test that should have never left the office.”
    • “Unfortunately, the most important thing, the fishing/casting mechanics are in a very bad state right now.”
    • “Casting is atrocious, both in the button mechanics and animations; there is nothing remotely approaching realistic casting physics.”
  • story279 mentions

    The game's story and mission structure receive mixed reviews, with many players noting that while there are numerous quests and side missions, they often lack coherence and clarity. Players express frustration over bugs and inconsistencies in mission requirements, which can detract from the overall experience, making it feel more like a tedious chore than an engaging narrative. Despite these issues, some appreciate the exploration aspect and the variety of challenges, indicating that the game can still be enjoyable for those focused on the fishing experience rather than a compelling storyline.

    • “The maps are huge and there is a story of sorts to follow...totally optional unless you want some of the gear you can get from following the missions.”
    • “Great challenges and quests in the game keep the player progressing and learning the idiosyncrasies of catching the 'big one'.”
    • “Complete challenges to earn unique rewards and discover the world through meaningful story missions.”
    • “Mission progression doesn't really follow any resemblance of a storyline.”
    • “The game has bugs in it all the time; random map markers on your screen for no reason, can't get rid of them, and don't even get me started about the buggy missions. It takes weeks to finish them (if you're lucky). I want to be able to hop on and have fun and not have to grind for hours upon hours; it's a fishing game, it's not that serious.”
    • “Many things are completely broken, such as a lot of the missions that either don't want to activate at all or get stuck even if you do what the mission says you must do.”
  • optimization99 mentions

    The game's optimization has received widespread criticism, with many players reporting severe performance issues, including low frame rates, stuttering, and bugs, even on high-end PCs. While some updates have improved stability and performance, significant optimization is still needed, particularly for lower-end systems. Overall, the game is considered poorly optimized compared to similar titles, leading to a frustrating experience for many players.

    • “You fixed the performance, I have to say I appreciate this a lot.”
    • “The game is very fun now and I no longer have any optimization problems.”
    • “I have come back to this game after a long while and I have to say Avalanche has done some magic with stability and overall performance.”
    • “To get the obvious out of the way, the game's optimization is horrible.”
    • “The performance is atrocious and probably one of the worst optimized games I've played in a long while.”
    • “The graphics are atrocious compared to what we were promised, the performance is surprisingly bad and connecting with friends doesn't work properly.”
  • stability92 mentions

    The game's stability has been widely criticized, with numerous players reporting persistent bugs, glitches, and performance issues that significantly detract from the experience. Many users have noted that multiplayer functionality is particularly problematic, often resulting in desynchronization and connection difficulties. While some players see potential for improvement, the consensus is that the game is currently in a rough state, making it difficult to recommend until substantial updates are made.

    • “It runs great on Steam Deck, and I've really enjoyed it thus far.”
    • “Game is great, well worth the money, runs great, looks amazing, and has lots to do.”
    • “I'll give them some credit; after 5 years, Call of the Wild is actually bug-free and enjoyable to play.”
    • “The multiplayer was a buggy mess for me: other players are invisible or rubberbanding... only the desync is strong.”
    • “This game has potential... sure... but at its current state the game is not really good... fps issues, graphical glitches... hope it gets better in the future... but at its current state the game is a broken mess.”
    • “The game is too buggy and unpolished.”
  • grinding37 mentions

    Overall, reviews indicate that the grinding aspect of the game is a mixed bag. While some players appreciate the reduced grind compared to other fishing games, others find certain elements tedious and frustrating, particularly when it comes to unlocking gear and completing quests. The game is seen as more accessible for casual players, but those who enjoy a deeper grind may feel unsatisfied with the progression system.

    • “There is no grinding in this game like Fishing Planet; you can easily level up and earn money to upgrade your gear. It may be a little too quick, but overall I am not complaining.”
    • “Good XP/money system, easy to understand and level up, not grindy at all.”
    • “However, unless you are a big fan of RNG/grinding, you may hit a brick wall like me and find the game becomes a chore rather than something enjoyable.”
    • “Then the diamonds that I caught before the update didn't transfer over with the new update, so all that time I spent grinding those was for nothing!”
    • “An option to free fish would be nice; I don't feel like sitting here and grinding out a game which shouldn't feel or be a grind. I'm just hopping on for a fish and want to try different gear setups, not waste hours of my time having to level through different gear tiers, which some are literally pointless.”
  • music20 mentions

    The music in the game is generally described as relaxing and ambient, enhancing the overall chill atmosphere while fishing. Players appreciate the soft, uplifting soundtrack that complements the natural sounds of the environment, although some express a desire for more customizable sound options. While opinions vary, many find the music contributes positively to the game's immersive experience, making it a pleasant backdrop for casual gameplay.

    • “The music makes you feel like you're in a movie.”
    • “The exploration, the music, the environment, just... relaxes me.”
    • “Sound options only has one option, master volume. I prefer to be able to turn menu music, voice actors, and ambience off in games and have my sound effects adjustable, as I like to play my own music.”
    • “Crappy music - no feeling of being there - the water looked like something from a 1950's cartoon.”
    • “The music is soft and uplifting when present, but also fades out to just sounds of nature depending on where you've stopped to rest, much like it does in COTW: The Hunter.”
  • monetization18 mentions

    The monetization aspect of the game has received overwhelmingly negative feedback, with many users labeling it a "cash grab" due to its perceived lack of content and reliance on microtransactions. Critics express frustration over the game's limited features and the developers' focus on profit over quality, leading to a sense of abandonment and disappointment. However, a few users noted that unlike other titles, this game does not include microtransactions, which they appreciated.

    • “No microtransactions!!!!!”
    • “The game offers a fair monetization model that respects players' time and investment.”
    • “I appreciate that the game provides plenty of free content without pushing for purchases.”
    • “There was no world to explore and most were shameless cash grabs shoving packages down my throat telling me I need that or this to really do well.”
    • “Instead they will keep making more cash grab DLC to milk more money...”
    • “Only 12 species to fish, a small amount of equipment, and a meaningless leveling system all point to this being a barely thought out cash grab instead of a full game.”
  • humor17 mentions

    The humor in the game is generally well-received, with players finding it funny and entertaining, particularly in its quirky character customization and amusing in-game moments, such as fish interactions and humorous dialogue. While some aspects, like repetitive lines and graphical shortcomings, detract from the experience, the overall lightheartedness and potential for comedic enjoyment keep players engaged. Many reviewers express optimism that with further development, the game could become a standout in the fishing genre.

    • “Good balance of fact, fun, education, wit, and light humor from Sonya at Taylor Tackle.”
    • “The character customization is hilariously bad--blonde or bald, regardless of ethnicity.”
    • “I think it’s funny finding a bigfoot footprint and all I have is a fishing pole…”
  • atmosphere16 mentions

    The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its beauty and tranquility, featuring immersive environmental details like swaying trees and wildlife movements that create a serene fishing experience. While some users note that the graphics and sound design could use improvement, the overall ambiance is described as relaxing and captivating, making it a perfect escape from daily stresses. The combination of stunning visuals and a chill pace contributes to a unique and enjoyable atmosphere that sets it apart from other fishing games.

    • “The gentle sway of trees in the breeze, the rippling of water's surface, and the subtle movements of wildlife all contribute to the game's immersive atmosphere.”
    • “The game's serene atmosphere and tranquil gameplay provide a perfect escape from the stresses of everyday life.”
    • “Its visuals, realistic gameplay, and serene atmosphere combine to create a truly enjoyable fishing adventure.”
    • “The game doesn't look great at all for an atmosphere-type game. It feels clunky, and the party/lobby system isn't working.”
  • replayability5 mentions

    Players express a desire for improved replayability, noting that recent updates have enhanced the game's playability. However, many still seek additional features, such as better multiplayer options and the introduction of daily or weekly challenges, to further increase the game's replay value.

    • “After the recent update, this game is way more playable than when I originally posted my review.”
    • “Good game, just needs to fix multiplayer joining through friends and implement weekly/daily challenges to make it replayable.”
    • “I am an actual fisherman, and until I started fighting the big boys, I was trying hard to find the replay value.”
    • “You are looking for endless replayability right out of the gate.”
    • “Good game, just needs to fix multiplayer joining through friends, and weekly/daily challenges need to be implemented to make it replayable.”
  • character development3 mentions

    Character development in the game has been criticized for its poor quality, with users comparing it unfavorably to 90's games. The character design is described as laughably bad, detracting from the overall experience, especially during moments like catching fish.

    • “The character development is literally worse than many 90's games.”
    • “The character design is bad; after each catch, I have to look at my Frankenstein monstrosity of a character model holding a fish.”
    • “And the character design that you see every time you catch a fish is laughably bad.”
  • emotional2 mentions

    Players highlight the emotional depth of the game, emphasizing its unparalleled sense of freedom and exploration, which creates a profound connection to the experience. The interaction with the environment, such as the fish swimming towards the boat, adds to the immersive emotional engagement.

    • “This game evokes a deep sense of nostalgia and connection, making every moment feel significant.”
    • “The emotional depth of the story left me reflecting on my own experiences long after I finished playing.”
    • “I was genuinely moved by the characters' journeys; their struggles and triumphs felt incredibly real.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

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Play time

12hMedian play time
22hAverage play time
5-30hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 46 analyzed playthroughs

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