Toybox and publisher Imagineer have revealed a new game titled Boku to Tsuri Nikki, which roughly translates to “My Fishing Diary,” scheduled for release on October 8 in Japan for Nintendo Switch and Switch 2.
Boku to Tsuri Nikki is marketed as a realistic freshwater fishing experience where players must “read the habitat” to find and capture specific fish across numerous fishing spots. The game features over 100 species of fish, with players assuming the role of a boy who, after having a mysterious dream, embarks on a “fishing adventure” with supernatural companions to break a curse that is stripping the world of its colors.
The game’s standout feature is its effort to replicate real-world fishing by requiring players to identify fish habitats. Unlike many fishing games that let players target fish silhouettes directly, Boku to Tsuri Nikki demands that you first figure out which species are present and where they are likely to be found.
Players can fish at eight different locations, all reminiscent of the kind of scenic landscapes common in Japan. The reveal trailer highlights environments such as a lake fringed with blooming cherry trees, autumn riverbanks, and refreshing mountain streams. As time passes in-game, ambient sounds like flowing rivers and rustling wind create a relaxing atmosphere that contrasts with the more “intense” fishing gameplay.
The game includes over 100 fish species to catch, ranging from lifelike freshwater fish to mythical monster-fish affected by the curse. Fishing rods and bait each have unique properties, with some specifically designed for certain fishing spots or species.
Developer Toybox is headed by Yasuhiro Wada, widely recognized as the creator of the Story of Seasons (Harvest Moon) series. The studio’s earlier titles include Natsu-Mon: 20th Century Summer Kid and Path of Mystery, with Wada himself also contributing to the new Boku to Tsuri Nikki.
Boku to Tsuri Nikki is scheduled for release on October 8 for Nintendo Switch systems in Japan. There has been no confirmation of a global release thus far, but previous Toybox titles such as Path of Mystery have seen Western releases following their domestic launch.