Developer Toybox and publisher Imagineer have announced the new title Boku to Tsuri Nikki (which loosely translates to “My Fishing Diary”), set to launch on October 8 for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2 in Japan.
Boku to Tsuri Nikki is dubbed as an authentic freshwater fishing game where players “read the habitat” to locate and catch specific fish across various fishing spots. Featuring more than 100 species of fish, players take on the role of a boy who, after experiencing a mysterious dream, embarks on a “fishing adventure” alongside supernatural companions to lift a curse that is draining the world of its colors.
The game’s most notable feature is its attempt to recreate the experience of real-life fishing by having players identify fish habitats. While many fishing games let players aim directly at fish silhouettes in the water, Boku to Tsuri Nikki requires you to first determine which species are present and where they are likely to be found.
Players can fish across eight different locations, all evocative of the kind of scenic landscapes you’d see in Japan. The reveal trailer showcases environments such as a lake lined with blooming cherry trees, autumn riverbanks, and cool mountain streams. Time progresses in-game as you play, with ambient sounds like flowing rivers and rustling wind creating a cozy atmosphere that contrasts with the more “intense” fishing gameplay.
As previously mentioned, the game comes with over 100 fish species to catch, ranging from realistic freshwater fish to fantastical monster-fish affected by the curse. Fishing rods and bait each have unique properties, with some specially designed for particular fishing spots or species.
Developer Toybox is led by Yasuhiro Wada, best known as the creator of the Story of Seasons (Harvest Moon) series. The studio’s previous titles include Natsu-Mon: 20th Century Summer Kid and Path of Mystery, with Wada himself also involved in the new Boku to Tsuri Nikki.
Boku to Tsuri Nikki is set to launch on October 8 for Nintendo Switch systems in Japan. So far, there has been no word on a global release, but previous Toybox titles like Path of Mystery have received Western versions following their domestic release.
