Hollow Tide Expedition

Hollow Tide Expedition is a mood piece as much as a game. You explore a chain of islands that are quietly disappearing under the water, piecing together what happened through notes, ruins, and the odd stubborn survivor. It's more about curiosity than combat.

The puzzles are woven into the environment rather than dropped in as obstacles — figuring out how to reach a flooded room using the tide cycle was a highlight for us. The art direction is beautiful, all muted blues and warm lantern light.

Pacing is deliberate, so if you want constant action this isn't it. But as a calm, story-first adventure to unwind with, it's one of the best we've played on mobile this year.

What we liked

• Gorgeous, moody art direction
• Environmental puzzles that feel natural
• A story that respects your patience