This situation rarely arises with virtual fish.
There are a number of options when it comes to fish-raising games. Some games are available free, while others must be purchased. These games vary widely in style of play and content. Some games, such as "Fish Tycoon," present a fairly realistic view of fish care and breeding. A game such as "Insaniquarium," on the other hand, focuses on fast action and game play, and lets realism fall by the wayside.
Not all fish-related games can be considered fish-raising games. For example, the XGen Studios-produced "Fishy" does not qualify, as the player takes the part of a fish, not someone raising fish.
"Fish Tycoon"
"Fish Tycoon" is produced by Big Fish Games, and is intended to simulate fish-breeding. The player takes the role of owning a virtual fish store, and begins the game with a small selection of fish, a small amount of game money and an aquarium to hold the fish. The game focuses on breeding and caring for fish, with a few business decisions to be made along the way. Rare species of fish can be sold in the game, with the proceeds used to buy food, medicine and advertising for the player's virtual fish store. "Fish Tycoon" operates in real-time in that the simulation will continue to run even if the player's computer is turned off.
"Insaniquarium"
"Insaniquarium" is produced by PopCap Games, and is available in both free and pay versions. The goal of "Insaniquarium" is to advance through as many levels as possible. Fish start out small on each level, and must be fed at regular intervals in order to grow. Fish start to drop coins once they reach a certain size, and the player must collect these coins to pass each level. Higher levels expand the types of fish and power-ups available. Aliens periodically invade the tank, which almost never happens in real-life fish-raising situations. Players must shoot the aliens to prevent them from killing the fish.
"Virtual FishTank"
Developed by Nearlife, "Virtual FishTank" allows players to create their own fish and release them into the "Virtual FishTank" exhibits located at the St. Louis Science Center and the Boston Museum of Science. Players may "build" up to four fish at a time, choosing to develop fish similar to existing ones or modify their fish to resemble nothing seen in nature.
"Facinity"
"Facinity" allows users to create an online virtual aquarium. "Facinity" is free to use, but registration is required. Players design their tank through the Aquarium Configuration Panel. Options include aquarium size, background selection, fish selection, fish modification and various decorations.
"Fishferous"
Game play in "Fishferous" also focuses on the creation of a virtual online aquarium, allowing players to configure their tank's background and decorations. The goal is to keep the fish happy and well-fed so that they will grow to adulthood. In addition, maintaining the tank properly allows the player to breed the fish under his care.
Tags: Fish Tycoon, selection fish, virtual fish, Virtual FishTank, each level, Fish start, fish store