Pond Squid

4.4 / 5

16,055 plays

platform

Game Information

Developer: SZ Games

Rating:

4.4/5

Released: April 2024

Last Updated: June 2025

Technology: HTML5 (Unity WebGL)

Platform: Browser

Size: ~15 MB

Plays: 16,055

Mobile Support: No

About Pond Squid

Dive headfirst into the murky mysteries of "Pond Squid," an indie platformer that masterfully blends nostalgia-fueled pixel art, tight mechanics, and nail-biting difficulty. Rumors swirl around the legendary pond squid—a cryptid only the bravest adventurers dare to pursue beneath lily pads and alongside croaking frogs. Developed in a whirlwind 12 days for Fletchfest 2023, this browser-exclusive free game by Noh_Kinda (with music by Gruber_Music) promises old-school platforming with modern indie flair.

As soon as you press start in Pond Squid, you’re greeted with a charming, slightly eerie world. The retro-inspired graphics pop with vivid ponds, animated reeds, and quirky aquatic critters, while the synth-driven soundtrack keeps adrenaline high. But don’t be fooled by the cute visuals—the game’s hard difficulty offers a true test of timing, memory, and skill. Fast reflexes are essential, with tight jump mechanics and satisfying, snappy movement. You’ll use Z to leap across fragile lily pads and evade traps, while X becomes your lifeline, casting and reeling in elusive pond creatures or treasures. Each screen is a new puzzle: shifting platforms, hidden passages, and unpredictable enemy patterns demand creative problem-solving and experimentation.

There’s an infectious sense of wonder to every new area, from shadowy, frog-ruled ruins to sun-dappled open water where the mysterious squid might surface. Progressing through these lush, quirky environments delivers that classic “one more try!” thrill, punctuated by cleverly-placed checkpoints for a perfect balance of challenge and progression.

Whether you’re searching for the pond’s hidden legend or simply love the rush of a tough platformer, Pond Squid rewards quick thinking, exploration, and mastery of its finely tuned controls. It’s a standout for fans of free, browser-based indie gems—perfect for those seeking nostalgic challenge with a modern creative twist. Jump in, cast your line, and see if you can be the one to spot the fabled pond squid!

How to Play

Getting started in Pond Squid is as thrilling as it is challenging! Begin by using the Arrow Keys to navigate menus and start your adventure. Once in-game, familiarize yourself with your two main actions: jump and interact. Press Z to jump—a key skill for clearing tricky platforms, evading hazards, and skipping dialogue. The X button is your multitool: use it to cast your line into the pond, reel in objects or creatures, and select options within menus.

As you progress, you’ll encounter a mix of platforming challenges, shifting obstacles, and the mysterious pond life. Timing your jumps precisely is essential, as some surfaces are slippery or give way underfoot. Use X to interact with specific items or when you see prompts—hidden areas and collectibles often require a keen eye and clever use of your reel.

If you find yourself struggling, don’t be discouraged! Death is just part of the journey in a hard platformer; learn enemy patterns and level layouts through repetition. Pay attention to subtle environmental cues—unusual plant placements or platform shapes often hide secrets or shortcuts. Remember, Pond Squid doesn’t support mobile play, so be sure to experience it on desktop for optimal controls and visuals. Keep pressing onward, and you might just uncover the pond’s most elusive legend!

Controls

mouse

keyboard

Tips & Tricks

Use short taps on Z for small jumps, and hold for higher leaps to master tricky platforms.
Look for subtle visual hints—oddly colored reeds or rocks often mark secrets or hidden areas.
Time your X-button casts carefully near moving objects or hazards for optimal item retrieval.
Patience is key—observe enemy patterns before making risky jumps or attempting to reel-in rare objects.
Replay tough sections to memorize layouts; persistence pays off in unlocking advanced levels.
Listen to the dynamic soundtrack—audio cues signal changes in level difficulty or hidden events.
Check edges of screens for hidden passages—exploration can lead to powerful rewards.

Game Features

Hardcore platforming action with razor-sharp controls and challenging level design.
Unique blend of fishing and jumping mechanics for creative problem-solving.
Retro pixel art and an atmospheric soundtrack immerse you in the pond’s mysterious world.
Easter eggs, hidden areas, and lore for explorers who crave more than just platforming.
Single-player adventure crafted by award-winning indie talent Noh_Kinda and Gruber_Music.
Optimized for browser play—no downloads, just click and dive into the action instantly.
Hand-crafted in 12 days for Fletchfest 2023, making each level feel fresh and imaginative.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Pond Squid free to play online?

Yes, Pond Squid is completely free to play in your browser via itch.io. No downloads or payments required.

How difficult is Pond Squid for new players?

Pond Squid is designed to be hard, offering a real challenge even for experienced platformer fans. Beginners are welcome—just be ready to practice and improve your skills!