Mintrocket has confirmed that Dave the Diver: In the Jungle will launch on June 18, 2026, for PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and handheld platforms. The upcoming DLC shifts the series’ focus from ocean diving to a lush jungle environment, adding new locations, characters, and gameplay elements while retaining the signature style of the base game.
The expansion centers on the lakeside village of Utara, where players will encounter a variety of wildlife, explore a new biome, and engage with villagers. The new campaign builds on the original’s combination of exploration, management, and light RPG mechanics, with a focus on both underwater and surface-level activities. Players will navigate the jungle, complete challenges, and uncover storylines that expand the world of Dave the Diver.
Freshwater Exploration and New Wildlife
The DLC introduces a freshwater lake ecosystem that presents new gameplay opportunities. Players will encounter fish species with unique movement and attack behaviors, requiring adjustments to familiar diving strategies. Environmental interactions also differ from the ocean-based base game, making exploration feel both familiar and distinct.
Interactions with the village and its inhabitants play a key role in the DLC. By earning trust and building relationships, players can integrate villagers into Bancho’s restaurant as diners. This dynamic enhances the social and management aspects of the game while tying into the overarching narrative. Additional minigames and challenges are embedded into the world, providing variety without interrupting the flow of the story.
Bancho’s Grill and Jungle Cuisine
A major addition in In the Jungle is Bancho Grill, a redesigned restaurant system that allows Dave to move freely across multiple areas. The jungle setting introduces new ingredients, including locally sourced freshwater fish, which players can use to craft dishes for the villagers. Bancho’s culinary operations remain central to the experience, while the restaurant’s customization options let players shape it to fit the new environment.
The DLC emphasizes the interplay between exploration and management, allowing players to gather ingredients from the lake and surrounding jungle before turning them into menu items for villagers. This interaction reinforces the community-driven focus of the expansion while maintaining the humor and charm of the original game.
What to Expect From the Trailer
The recently released trailer for In the Jungle gives a glimpse into the expansion’s content, including a giant freshwater dinosaur washed ashore in Utara, new NPCs, puzzles, and boss encounters. Characters such as Muna, Dr. Bacon’s assistant, are also introduced, suggesting additional narrative threads and interactions. The trailer demonstrates the balance between exploration, story, and gameplay mechanics that Mintrocket aims to maintain in this DLC.
Release Details and Availability
Dave the Diver: In the Jungle will be available on June 18 for $19.99. The DLC is compatible with PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and handheld platforms. Players who have yet to experience the main game can start with the base title, which includes the original Blue Hole dives and restaurant management gameplay. Fans are encouraged to follow the official Dave the Diver Discord for updates and additional information ahead of launch.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When does Dave the Diver: In the Jungle DLC release?
The DLC is scheduled to launch on June 18, 2026, for PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, and handheld devices.
What new environments are featured in the DLC?
The expansion introduces a jungle biome surrounding a freshwater lake and the village of Utara, offering new exploration, wildlife, and story opportunities.
What gameplay changes does the DLC bring?
Players will encounter freshwater fish with unique behaviors, interact with villagers, complete minigames, and manage Bancho Grill with new dishes and customization options.
Are there new characters in In the Jungle?
Yes, the DLC adds new NPCs, including Muna, Dr. Bacon’s assistant, and several villagers, while also featuring familiar characters from the main game.
How much does the DLC cost?
In the Jungle is priced at $19.99.
Do I need the base game to play the DLC?
Yes, the DLC builds on the main game’s mechanics and story, so players will need Dave the Diver to access In the Jungle.
