Abzû – WISE Score & Parent Review | Screenwise

Abzû

Name: Screenwise
Author: Screenwise

game2015

93%

WISE Score

Underwater meditation disguised as a video game—you're a diver exploring gorgeous ocean environments with zero stress and maximum chill.

Abzû

game

9+, 2015

93%

WISE Score

Underwater meditation disguised as a video game—you're a diver exploring gorgeous ocean environments with zero stress and maximum chill.

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Where to Play

Platform availability info not available. Search for "Abzû" on your preferred gaming platform.

Screenwise Verdict

This is the game equivalent of a nature documentary narrated by someone whispering. Abzû is gorgeous, peaceful, and genuinely good for kids—the kind of game you can hand to a 7-year-old without a single worry.

It's not trying to teach multiplication or spelling, but it does something arguably more valuable: it slows kids down and asks them to just... look around. Notice things. Be curious. In a gaming landscape full of loot boxes, battle passes, and dopamine slot machines, Abzû is practically revolutionary for being completely chill.

The only real caveat is that some kids will find it boring. If your kid needs constant stimulation, this won't hit. But if they like exploration, animals, or just pretty things, this is a winner. And honestly? You might end up playing it yourself after bedtime.

Age Fit

Best for ages 5-12, though the meditative gameplay appeals to adults too. Young kids (5-7) will love the exploration and sea creatures but may need help with some navigation. Older kids and teens who enjoy contemplative experiences will appreciate the artistry, but action-seeking gamers might find it too slow.

WISE Breakdown

Wholesome

A meditative underwater exploration game with no violence, no enemies, and a peaceful tone throughout. Parent reviews consistently describe it as 'relaxing' and 'zen.' The game models curiosity and respect for ocean life, with gentle pacing that never becomes chaotic or overstimulating.

Imaginative

Stunning visual design that invites pure exploration without hand-holding or explicit objectives. Players discover underwater environments organically, interact with sea creatures freely, and experience a wordless narrative that leaves room for interpretation. The 'no real story, background or direction' approach actually encourages imaginative engagement rather than passive consumption.

Safe

No violence, no hostile creatures, no environmental dangers (initially), no dialogue or text to misinterpret, no multiplayer toxicity, no monetization concerns, no ads. Single-player experience with no social features. The only slight tension comes from mild environmental challenges later in the game, but nothing frightening or inappropriate. Essentially as safe as a game can be.

Enriching

Builds appreciation for marine ecosystems and underwater beauty. Encourages patience, observation, and environmental awareness. The meditative gameplay can teach focus and mindfulness. Parent reviews note it was 'a great intro to gaming' for young kids, teaching basic controller skills in a forgiving environment. While not explicitly educational, it fosters curiosity about ocean life and contemplative play.

Parent Info

✓

Why It Might Be Great

Perfect intro to gaming for young kids—simple controls, no fail states, no pressure
Visually stunning with some of the most beautiful underwater environments in gaming
Genuinely relaxing for both kids and parents (you might actually want to play this one yourself)
Builds appreciation for marine life and ocean ecosystems without being preachy
Short enough (2-3 hours) that kids can complete it and feel accomplished

⚠

What to Watch For

Very minimal gameplay—some kids who need constant action might get bored
No dialogue or text means younger kids won't get explicit story beats (though the visual narrative is clear enough)
Brief moments of mild tension later in the game, but nothing scary or inappropriate

Conversation Starters

"Which ocean animals did you recognize? Which ones were new to you?"
"What do you think the diver was looking for underwater?"
"If you could breathe underwater like in the game, where would you want to explore?"
"How did the game make you feel? Calm? Excited? Curious?"

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