Scout uses a raft to traverse a large river, the result of an apocalyptic flood which has turned the land into a series of islands.

Like other roguelikes, death is permanent, although the player can restart at predetermined checkpoints along the river if they are playing in Campaign mode.

The game was developed by a team of people who previously worked on BioShock, Halo 2, and Rock Band.

"[15] IGN awarded it a score of 7.3 out of 10, saying "Brutal and beautiful, The Flame in the Flood is a unique sort of survival game, with a few crucial flaws.

"[12] GameSpot awarded it a score of 8.0 out of 10, saying "Despite the awkward menu system, it's an absorbing game that lets you experience a journey in the present, and fully appreciate the sights, sounds, and joys of floating down the river in its alluring world.