Nine years later, there is no longer any sign of this. No Man's Sky is an outstanding example of how a game can be successfully redesigned. With the new Voyagers update, the Space adventure has seen significant progress.

A No Man's Sky that never stops growing

The 6.0 update contains numerous improvements and bug fixes. The update extends No Man's Sky with features that will surprise even experienced players. For the first time, it is possible to completely customize the interior of the spaceships. The new corvette class is characterized by its size, modularity and accessibility. It has a cockpit, living quarters and a kitchen where meals can be prepared for the crew.

For me as a sci-fi and exploration fan, this is exactly the nerve that Hello Games needed to strike. The ship now gives the impression that it is my home - and not just a means of transportation between the stars. A special feature is the ability to bring friends on board as fellow passengers and travel through space together. However, the update offers even more improvements: Multiplayer missions, a new spacesuit, revamped lighting and even the integration of NVIDIA DLSS 4 for smoother gameplay, especially in VR.

From the biggest disappointment to the biggest comeback

That No Man's Sky is being celebrated today is nothing short of a miracle. Because after the disastrous launch in 2016, the brand seemed to have been burned. Many of the features announced at the time, such as multiplayer, base building and missions, were simply missing. But instead of giving up, Hello Games began to implement everything bit by bit.

Initially, base building, vehicles and story elements were added, followed by a full multiplayer experience with the NEXT update. VR, expeditions, seasonal missions and countless new game modes followed later. Today No Man's Sky no longer has anything in common with the original version - and I mean that in the best sense of the word.

For me personally, it is one of the most impressive games ever. I've spent countless hours in the cockpit, cataloging planets and building my own little base on a poisonous green moon. No Man's Sky is by no means just a game, but an ongoing project, a digital universe that continues to unfold with each passing year.

Voyagers, visions and the future

The fact that No Man's Sky still feels so lively in 2025 is not only due to the updates, but also to the clear philosophy of Hello Games. The studio, which currently employs around 50 people, focuses on long-term development rather than quick successors. And it pays off: over 100,000 simultaneous players on Steam prove that this strategy works. Without microtransactions, without paywalls - instead with honest work, continuity and passion. That's a rarity these days.

Hello Games is also looking ahead with the upcoming open-world game Light No Fire, which takes place on a single giant planet, long beyond the edge of the universe. They want to use the findings from No Man's Sky directly. Many of the technologies from the Voyagers update will also be used there. It seems that every new feature in No Man's Sky at the same time a testing ground for the future.

No Man's Sky was and remains one of my favorites

In the history of video games, there have been No Man's Sky managed to transform itself from a disaster into a legend. From a once overambitious flop to perhaps the most consistent long-term project in gaming history, the science fiction adventure has not only burned itself into the hearts of gamers, but after this long period of time also serves as a memorial to hasty releases and greedy publishers.

I am honestly glad that No Man's Sky all these years. Because now, after this long journey, I am being rewarded for not giving up. Today I am gliding through a huge, living universe in which every galaxy, every planet and even the smallest moment is tangibly breathing. What was once just a promise has finally become a reality (and almost within reach.)

The post No Man's Sky's Voyagers update - From crash landing to star flight first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

A survival game without violence - almost revolutionary

Most survival games always rely on the same mix: hunger, thirst, threats and enemies that make your virtual life difficult. With Solarpunk the developers of Cyberwave have deliberately taken a different direction. There are no battles here, instead everything revolves around building, sustainability and shaping a world together, which actually already offers enough challenges. Alone or in co-op with friends, we construct buildings, farm, automate processes and travel above the clouds in our own airship.

That there are no waves of opponents, no Zombies or marauding hordes is almost a small revolution. The tension is created by clever planning, by balancing energy, food and water - and by the question of how to turn your island into a real oasis of well-being. It is a survival game that deliberately focuses on harmony without becoming boring.

Energy as the heartbeat of the Solarpunk game world

I find the energy system, which plays a major role, particularly exciting. Electricity is not generated by Coal stoves or generators, but by wind, sun and water. Production depends directly on the weather - so if you only rely on solar panels, you could suddenly run into problems during a prolonged period of rain. Planning ahead is therefore essential. Energy is stored, distributed and passed on to devices wirelessly. This allows not only simple tasks such as watering plants to be automated, but also more complex production chains to be set up.

The highlight: this system forces you to think not just about the next day, but about longer periods of time. It makes the difference between just keeping an island alive and actually creating a small paradise between the clouds.

Agriculture and animals - a partnership instead of exploitation

Another detail that I immediately liked: Animals are not suppliers of resources in Solarpunk, but partners. There is no factory farming, no hunting for meat. Instead, animals help in their own way. Pigs, for example, dig in the ground and bring truffles to light - if you treat them well. Agriculture is the most important supplier, and those who grow fruit and vegetables also have to be clever with water to avoid shortages.

This concept fits perfectly with the idea of Solarpunk: peaceful, sustainable, communal. It is almost a small criticism of others Survival games, often only see the animals as prey or danger. Here, on the other hand, it is shown that living together can also work differently.

Airships as the key to new worlds

None Solarpunk without exploration - and this is where the airship comes into play. Each player can build their own ship, customize it and then use it to travel to new islands. These trips not only bring resources and rare materials, but also the feeling of really crossing a world in the clouds.

The demo already showed how much fun it is to finally take off after hours of building. Sure, the flying is more arcadey than realistic, but that's exactly what makes it so enjoyable. You steer your ship, pay rough attention to wind and energy - and just let yourself drift. There is potential here for great adventures, perhaps even for an entire lore that explains the world. We don't yet know what the developers are planning in this area, but the idea alone makes us curious.

Building and crafting system - Solarpunk is minimalist but effective

A survival game stands and falls with its user interface. Anyone who has ever despaired in endless crafting menus knows how quickly the fun can be lost. Solarpunk does a lot of things right here: instead of confusing windows, there is a compact radial menu that displays everything important without being overwhelming. Tools, building materials, buildings - everything is just a few clicks away.

I particularly liked the focus on clarity. Tools wear out, but can be rebuilt quickly. Even with the building hammer, everything remains clear and simple. There are enough options for creative constructions without being overwhelmed by the choice. Only a few games manage this balancing act between freedom and overview.

Cyberwave's vision - small but ambitious

Solarpunk comes from the German development studio Cyberwave, which has developed smaller titles such as Hourglass in the past. With the support of publisher rokaplay they are now taking the big step into the international spotlight. The proximity to the community is remarkable: the demo already showed that player ideas are taken seriously and many features are based directly on feedback.

The fact that this is a comparatively small studio is only noticeable in the gradual development. Otherwise Solarpunk surprisingly smooth and ambitious. With the Unreal Engine 5 behind it, the world not only looks pretty, but also runs smoothly. The art style in particular, a mixture of minimalist clarity and colorful idyll, makes the game stand out from the crowd.

Survival in a cozy way - cozy meets strategy

The classification is also interesting: Solarpunk is a survival game, but at the same time it belongs to the so-called Cozy Games. These games place less emphasis on stress or combat and more on relaxation, atmosphere and the feeling of really arriving in a world. In Solarpunk this approach meets classic survival mechanics such as hunger, thirst and scarcity of resources. An exciting mix that should appeal to fans of leisurely building games as well as survival veterans.

And hand on heart: how often do you feel like simply building a peaceful base without a zombie immediately jumping through the window? This is exactly where Solarpunk as a game to take a deep breath, but not without ambition.

Graphics, atmosphere and performance

The graphic design of Solarpunk is not photorealistic, but stylized - and that fits perfectly. Green meadows, shimmering solar panels, futuristic building elements and a sky full of floating islands create an atmosphere that is both futuristic and familiar. There is also a dynamic day/night cycle and weather effects that not only look beautiful, but also have an impact on the gameplay.

The game was already stable in the demo and major bugs were rare. This also contributes to the positive impression. After all, what good is the most beautiful vision if it fails due to technical problems? Cyberwave has done a lot of things right so far.

Hope and expectation for Solarpunk

Solarpunk is more than just another survival game. It is an invitation to rethink the genre. Instead of violence and destruction, the focus here is on community, Sustainability and creativity in the foreground. With its peaceful approach, clever energy system and charming airships, it stands out pleasantly from the competition.

Of course, it remains to be seen how extensive the full version will really be. But there are already many indications that Solarpunk could become a title that will be talked about for a long time. Especially in times when many games rely on hectic action, this project is a welcome exception. Perhaps even a small glimmer of hope in the gaming world - in the truest sense of the word.

The post A sunny future on floating islands - why solarpunk could be my new survival dream first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

CrisisX at a glance - what you need to know

CrisisX is a Open-world survival game (survival, gathering, production) for PC, iOS, Android with Free-to-play-approach: 30×40 km (≈1,200 km²), Up to 5,000 simultaneous players per server, twelve biomes, PvE (incl. bosses), PvP for resources, Base construction and Vehicles up to armored tracked vehicles. History (dev information): CrisisX started as Mobile project, later PC parity and approach with a larger world. Current planning: Stress test Nov 2025, Early Access Q2/2026.

Orders of magnitude and comparisons

The CrisisX card measures ≈ 1,200 km² (30×40 km). That is almost three times the size of Cologne. For survival gamers: DayZ - Chernarus is ≈ 225 km², so CrisisX would be around 5.3 times as big.

Building Reminiscent of Rust/Icarus: foundation, walls, door, windows, stairs, roof.

The Operation is reminiscent of the tap flow of mobile games due to the many actions on one button (F) - it just has to work as a mobile game.

This is how the CrisisX map is cut

The map layout of CrisisX follows a Subdivision into different areas.

• All the way south introduces Tutorial-The game introduces you to movement, gathering, crafting and combat.
• Immediately north of which includes a larger PvE area (~ 30-40% of the map), where you can play relatively safely, collect resources and try out systems.
• Even further north begins the PvP area (~40-55% of the map), which must first be unlocked - the prerequisite for access is advancement to a certain experience level. Risk, enemy difficulty and loot value increase in this area. Groups and clans will have their natural home here.
• All the way north Finally, the northernmost ~15 to 20 % of the map lie behind another level gate. According to the dev, even more difficult PvE opponents can be expected there - a high-risk area for very well-prepared groups and individual players.

In my playthrough, the southern coast seemed noticeably animated with points of interest (POI; prominent locations with loot or side quests): hardly a moment without a new impulse - a burning car here, a traveling merchant there, a farmhouse with infected people in sight. Because we had no player encounters, this is a solo perspective; on live servers, the circumstances can change due to other players.

Hands-on: dog, yard, hut - and the fast car

This is how our CrisisX session played out: from the first knife to the mini farm

The Build trade fair starts with a detailed introduction to the game world accompanied by video sequences: a rather typical zombie survival story: An infection has broken out that is turning people into zombie-like "Infected".

Blow after blow. The whole thing happens unexpectedly. One minute we're sitting in a restaurant, the next we're washed ashore on an island after a wild escape on foot and by boat. On the way, we have lost our sister, who also seems to be on the island. My main mission is to find her again.

Weapons show. We explore the area, fight the infected and learn how to loot and use various weapon systems: automatic rifle, shotgun, machete, Molotov cocktail, grenades, machine gun and rocket launcher. We catch a horse and tame it, chase after a loot drop. All of this is scripted, but it allows us to try out different weapons, including higher-grade ones.

Open World. But we also lose everything again before we can enter a freer game, driven only by quests and with a much more open-world character.

Stringent, but friendly. The tutorial guides me without limiting me too much. We can't use a shot deer without a knife - a small barrier that immediately clarifies the objective: collect resources, build a knife, cut up the shot game. The principle runs through the gamescom version: small, sensible hurdles that provide structure without slowing you down.

A dog has accompanied us right from the start - not as a mascot, but as a real companion who fights bravely at our side and can also be injured and die.

Building works immediately. Lay the foundations, raise the walls, insert the door - done. Relocation - moving your own base to another location - is the convenience feature that seems tailor-made for a world with a north train: we pack up the building, set it up again somewhere else and take our previous progress with us. For the live version, the parameters (frequency, costs, cooldown times) are interesting; in the gamescom build, the system felt sensible.

Self-catering mechanism: The chicken coop and grazing area for cows can be built, and farm animals can be caught and brought to the base. Yes - in the exhibition version, even a cow fitted into the trunk of our car: practical, but noticeably "gamey" (see below). For the first 90 minutes, this created a pleasant flow; in the long term, we expect more realism here.

The vehicle mechanics. In just a few steps and with scrap metal, leather, springs and an old engine, we put together a ready-to-drive car - without any rare special parts. This increases the flow of the game, but brings with it balance risks: If motorization succeeds too quickly, solo loops lose weight and conflicts tip too early in favour of mobile groups. Gatekeepers are mandatory here: rare parts, build times, loss costs, noise/visibility risk for competing players. Counterattacks against vehicles could increase the tension: Mines, roadblocks, fuel economy etc.

Crafting guardrails in CrisisX: why the mini hurdles help

• The hunt begins not in a vacuum, but is based on small, guided steps. First build an axe, then cut down trees.
• The Recipe book briefly explains what we need in terms of resources and how long it takes to make the desired item. One example is the "simple lasso": Made in a few seconds, with various plant fibers, and the next loop opens up - catching horses.
• Farm animals bring rhythm to the base and force simple cycles: Growing food, feeding the animals and harvesting grain or meat.
• The Quest Journal sets chapter markers such as "Sister's Calling" or "The Titan" and leads via checklists.

The only downer in the gamescom build: If you complete a step prematurely, you often have to "officially" tick it off again later in the quest context. This is instructive, but costs a little freedom.

Animal companion: The dog as a play factor, not as cosmetics

The dog is a systemnot an ornament. Its values allow for specialization, the kennel bundles care, breeding and expansion.

In battle the companion brings security. It gets involved in fights. But it is also more deeply integrated into the game. Values such as bite damage, cooldown time, search radius or home security indicate roles that the dog could take on in the game: Sniffer dog, guard dog, hunting dog, etc.

That several dogs opens up fantasies of what could be possible with these animals. A dog house allows for several animals, which can also be bred there. Will there be very powerful dogs later on?

Attributes and character development in CrisisX: progress through use

Strength, agility and endurance are the cornerstones of every character, flanked by sub-values such as melee strength, archery, running speed, footstep sound, comfortable temperature (e.g. 11.9-33 C) or poison protection.

Automatic leveling. The "Conversion" timer signals when the next increase in value is due - not through freely distributable experience points, but by using corresponding properties. If you run a lot, you become noticeably faster; if you often sneak, you become quieter. The transparency of these game mechanics is remarkable for a free-to-play survival game.

Base building: get to your first hut quickly and move stress-free

Almost like in Rust or Icarus. The building system delivers the classic "first hut" moment in minutes. Lay the foundations, put the walls on top, door, windows, done. It is low-threshold without being banal.

Relocation. The relocation feature for moving the entire base is almost a quality feature in a world that forces you to travel north: instead of letting old beginner bases become deserted, we move with bag and baggage. That's not particularly realistic with a car. But perhaps that will change. In the end, the decisive factors are frequency, costs and decay times - comfort yes, abuse no.

Of cars and tanks: game changers - but controllable

Easy Auto. Vehicles are pace-setters in large worlds. They enable convoys, raids and route planning. In the gamescom build, we quickly found ourselves with a drivable car - made of leather, springs, scrap metal and an old engine, with no rare components.

Balancing required. This drives the flow of the game, but requires good balancing so that motorization does not become overpowering. Armored vehicles were hinted at; how difficult or easy it will be to access them will subsequently determine fairness towards new players. The upper limit of 40 players per team confirmed by the developer acts as an anti-Zerg guardrail here: mega-alliances cannot grow indefinitely and have to share territories - a sensible counterbalance to motorization.

Controls in CrisisX: One-button comfort vs. PC depth - what fits now, what needs to grow later

Tapp - Tapp. Many actions are assigned to one key (F). Collecting items, opening crates, taming horses, ... This is convenient and helps beginners, but initially takes the sensitivity out of the system.

Click - Click. The combat system is heavily centered on the left mouse button; here, hit feedback, dodge/parry functions or context actions would add noticeable depth for PC players.

Guided vs. open-world freedom. The tutorial is a clear guide - ideal for the beginning, but north of the gates the leash should be longer: more solution paths, free objectives, sensible shortcuts.

Communication, moderation and fair play

As features for communicating with other players could not be tested at gamescom, we spoke to the producer at length and learned the following:

• Text chat: There is currently a server-wide text chat. Team or local channels have not yet been implemented.
• Voice chatVoice chat is being evaluated internally. On the one hand, we are considering in-game language that everyone in the environment can hear, but also a team voice chat. However, there is no commitment to implementation and no timetable.
• Anti-Cheat/ModerationCrisisX relies on the anti-cheat software ACE (Anti-Cheat Expert). In addition to cheat detection, this toolset includes text filters (hate speech can be hidden) and options for automated voice moderation. There will also be a classic reporting system for reporting misconduct.

Since the ACE software intervenes deeply in the PC system and would have to process voice data on the server for voice moderation, the following questions arise for the live version TransparencyWhich modules are running? What data is stored where and for how long? What objection options exist? Which systems is ACE compatible with CrisisX: Linux computer? Steam deck?

Store check: What you can buy in CrisisX - and which purchases could jeopardize the balance

Microtransactions. With a free-to-play game, the question quickly arises. What kind of microtransactions will there be in the game?

Skins Only? The current status is that there should be "skins" without value advantages - outfits, vehicle paintwork, dog breeds. But a leather jacket remains a leather jacket in terms of back protection, for example. No matter what it looks like - so no pay-to-win.

Comfort purchases? In the interview, the producer mentioned resources/ammunition for real money as the maximum idea. If this were ever to become an issue, there would need to be hard guard rails: purchase limits, no trading, clear counter values (how much game time corresponds to a purchase?). The status quo seems uncritical, but the topic belongs on the watch list for CrisisX.

Caution trade fair build: Three deliberately "gamey" shortcuts at gamescom

• Transportation tricks: Cattle could be transported in the trunk of a car. Likewise a complete starter base - useful, but not particularly realistic.
• Abbreviated processing: Lumps of coal/iron ore went into tools/upgrades without the smelting process - clear convenience for the trade fair.
• Strict quest-gating: Previously completed actions did not count automatically; steps had to be completed in the correct order for the journal checklist.

These points are not a judgment on the final depth, they explain the round start of the build at gamescom.

Outlook until early access: what is important now

Next stop: Early Access. What else should be done before then to offer a game that will be a success to a critical community?

Measured values please. A stress test is planned for November 2025 (dev information). We are hoping for a transparent publication of the measured values afterwards, for example on ping per region, tick rates and server FPS - under load with vehicles, tanks and hordes of infected with 1,000/3,000/5,000 simultaneously active players (CCU)

Game mechanics and logic. On the design side, crafting chains (e.g. smelting of ore), vehicle balancing (e.g. rare parts for building, building/repair times, loss costs) and animal husbandry limits should be specified. Logic chains should also be checked and fixed. In the gamescom version, for example, you automatically get leather from a pasture with cattle without having to kill an animal and breed a calf ...

Data protection and monetization. A clear moderation/data protection policy and a written monetization guideline ("skins only") are certainly very helpful for community acceptance. Let's see what comes next.

Fact check: CrisisX promise at a glance

Legend: Confirmed = publicly documented - Confirmed (dev/build) = developer statement/trade fair version - Partial = core correct, details open - Unclear = no reliable information

Watchlist: What we're looking out for in upcoming CrisisX releases

Data from the stress test:

• Server topology diagram: World division (shard/zones/instances), seamless transitions.
• Test protocols: Tick rate/ping/server FPS at 1k/3k/5k CCU, including vehicle/horde.

Information on game elements:

• Vehicle balancing: Parts rarities, build/repair times, loss costs, noise/signature.
• Relocation parameters: Frequency, costs, decay times - convenience vs. abuse protection.
• Communication roadmap: Team/local chat, filters per channel, moderation workflow, spam controls.

Legal and social matters

• Monetization guard rails: written "skins only" or strictly regulated convenience with sample invoices.
• Voice-Policy: Whether/how voice comes; moderation & data protection (recording, storage, EU locations, opt-in/opt-out).
• Moderation policy (ACE)active modules, log durations, data locations, objection SLA.
• Compatibility: Steam deck/Linux, controller layouts, accessibility options.

Glossary/explanation of terms:

• Ping = Measures the network speed for data packets
• Tick rate = server updates per second; instance/zone = world sub-areas
• Shard = independent world node
• Zerg = very large collection of players that dominates regions
• Pay for Convenience = pay real money for convenience, e.g. buy resources instead of farming ingame

The post CrisisX in the gamescom check: This is how the launch plays - that remains to be proven first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Does that sound dramatic? It is. But StarRupture does not want to be a disaster simulator, but combines tactical setup, research and teamwork with the feeling of being at the mercy of a living world. The development of the title started under the name Chimera - We already had a first look at the announcement back then. Now the official playtest has started - time for an update.

StarRupture Gameplay: Plan - Build - Survive

In StarRupture You take on the role of a prisoner who is being held on the planet Arcadia-7 is stationed - a world full of resources, but with a small catch: it lies in the sphere of influence of the star Rupturewhose activity cycles regularly reduce everything to rubble.

The focus is on a mix of:

• Survival & Resource Management. Very basic: you have to manage hunger and thirst, you can poison yourself and unlock both technical progress and personal characteristics step by step.
• Factory construction and automation. Similar to Satisfactory or Factorio, you also have to Star Rupture set up large production lines with raw material extraction, further processing and shipping to the customer in hyperspace.

• Cooperative base construction for up to 4 people. Crerepy Jar has not yet announced a PvP mode. The game is designed for cooperation: You against the hardships of the planet Arcadia-7 and its star.
• Cyclical environmental destruction caused by solar flares. It is not yet known exactly what the solar flares can destroy. But testing suggests that buildings can be damaged if you don't protect them sufficiently. However, each solar flare also throws new meteorites into the game world, which can be used as resources.

You collect materials, build energy supplies, set up production chains - and you always know that you don't have much time. When the sun goes berserk again, it can all be over. This radically changes the flow of the game. Unlike in classic factory games like Satisfactory or Factorio you always have to reckon with a total loss - planning is everything.

Classes, technologies and teamwork

The playtest concentrates on the solo mode, later the StarRupture but will be playable in 4-player co-op. Four different character classes with their own abilities provide a clear division of roles: for example in research, construction, resource extraction or defense.

There are also tools and aids such as:

• Dismantling and construction tools. These are the first two tools you have in the playtest. With the mining laser, you have to be careful that it doesn't overheat. The construction tool erects complete buildings at the touch of a button - if you have the right resources.
• Generators & power distribution. At the beginning, solar panels help us, later wind turbines are added to the power supply. But you have to unlock them first.
• Conveyor belts & track systems. Connect the individual resource extraction stations with the factories and the shipping unit that shoots the finished products into space?
• Analyzers. You can only build this later once you have unlocked it. Here you can obtain valuable research data on things you find on the planet.

What is particularly exciting is that the game tries, scientific reality into game mechanics. According to the developer StarRupture inspired by real space research projects, including those of the ESA - even if this naturally takes place within the framework of creative freedom. This also applies to the destructive power of the star.

Wave of fire instead of enemies: the catastrophe comes from above in StarRupture

The regular destruction of the planet occurs not by earthquakes or tectonic shifts, but by extreme Solar cycles. The "Ruptura" sun regularly triggers a kind of global heatwave that sweeps across the surface and destroys almost everything that has not made it to safety. Existing buildings and machines overheat and fail until they are cooled down again. All organic life is burnt to ashes.

This cycle is not a rare event, but a core mechanic: Only those who Shelters built in good time will be able to pick up where they left off after the cycle. Anyone caught by the solar flare outside will burn up and be transferred to a new body for a fee.

What is included in the Star Rupture playtest - and what is not?

The Steam Playtest will take place from July 29 to August 4. It shows the first functional systems. Included are:

• The first of several planned biomes (incl. heat wave mechanics)
• Resource management, energy flow, conveyor chains
• Basic expansion and automation
• First analysis and exploration systems
• Tutorial sections partly set to music

Still not included are:

• Multiplayer co-op mode
• Extensive story content
• Advanced research areas
• Hostile life forms only exist to a limited extent.

According to our own experience and other game tests, the performance is surprisingly stable. The Unreal Engine 5 provides an attractive representation of the environment, even if not everything looks final yet. Only mouse & keyboard are currently supported, no controllers or ultrawide set-ups.

Early Access, release, platforms & cross-play: What is planned?

On which platforms and when is Star Rupture coming?

• Steam Early Access: on January 6, 2026
• PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S: No explicit announcement.

There is also no information on cross-play between PC and consoles. According to the development team, only the PC version is currently being actively tested and prioritized.

Conclusion: Those who want to play on console will probably have to wait longer. Anyone hoping for cross-play should keep an eye on developments - so far this is pure speculation.

Conclusion: Star Rupture is more than just a "survive and build".

StarRupture dares to do something that many representatives of the genre lack: a credible world with real risk. The biggest threat comes from nature itself - and forces players to think in cycles. Not only technically, but also strategically.

For all those who Green Hell because of its realism, but are more into technology than jungles, might like StarRupture be exactly the right next step. It remains to be seen whether the game can captivate players in the long term beyond the initial hype - but the foundations are there.

I'm looking forward to Early Access on Steam in the fall. The playtest has shown that Creepy Jar can also convince with a small, free trial and keep you glued to your computer for hours. If they approach the Early Access phase as confidently as they once did with Green Hell, we can look forward to valuable updates, community involvement and a clear roadmap to the 1.0 version in the fall.

Your opinion?

What do you think of this approach? Does the idea of surviving in a game that regularly destroys the entire game world appeal to you - or do you need more security in your base? Discuss with us in the Discord from spielecheck.gg!

The post StarRupture: Survival game from Creepy Jar goes into Early Access first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

The basic idea alone is strong enough to arouse curiosity: In a poisoned world where mysterious plants spread toxic spores, a group of survivors flee on the back of Onbu, a gigantic creature that looks like a cross between a dragon and a dinosaur. As they travel with him through different biomes, they build a functioning settlement, adapt to new dangers and eventually decide: do we live with him or just on him?

The Wandering Village is a balancing act between "little space" and "great responsibility"

Building on Onbus' back is a constant compromise. Space is limited, resources are scarce. I realized early on that you can't just build haphazardly here. Instead, it's about establishing sensible production chains and keeping distances short. If you build inefficiently, you will quickly be overtaken by hunger, thirst or disease. And Onbu is not a neutral area - it is a living being with needs. If I don't look after it, my settlement suffers. If I treat it badly, it can turn against me. And that's exactly what makes it so attractive: I'm not building a city. I'm building a relationship.

This becomes particularly clear in the later stages of the game. When I'm traveling through deserts, my water supplies are running low and I have to decide whether to lead Onbu through a poisonous zone or take a detour - then it becomes clear that it's not just Onbu that carries a lot of weight, but every decision I make. And yes, you can also consciously decide against the animal's welfare. But doing so not only has technical consequences, it also has moral consequences. I tried it out. And then quickly restarted. Very often, by the way... it's harder than it seems.

Graphics, music and a feeling all of its own

The Wandering Village lives not only from its gameplay, but also from its atmosphere. The style is a successful mixture of hand-drawn 2D elements and clear 3D models. Everything looks harmonious, never overloaded, but never too plain either. The colors change to match the biomes, sometimes warm and inviting, sometimes cold and threatening. Onbu also changes, sometimes appearing powerful, sometimes exhausted. I often just watched him breathe, move or rest.

The soundtrack is calm, driving, melancholic - it adapts to the way I play without ever being intrusive. There were moments when I simply enjoyed the flow of music while my settlement was running. Music that not only accompanies, but - attention linguist joke - carries.

The Wandering Village is a city builder that is second to none

The game offers more than just construction and administration. It lets me explore, research and tactic. I send out scouts, find old technologies that open up new possibilities. Progress is not an end in itself - some tools make life easier, others bring risks. If you automate your production, for example, you have to expend more energy, which in turn can affect Onbu's exhaustion. Everything is intertwined. And that's what keeps me going.

Who the creators behind Stray Fawn Studio knows that the ideas behind the game mechanics can be very profound and scientific.

There are also different game modes - from the classic build-up scenario to a story mode that adds an emotional charge to the journey. There are also regular challenges, random events, new biomes, flying traders and even changeable skins for Onbu. So it never gets boring.

Technically clean and lovingly cared for

I also noticed something positive: The Wandering Village runs stably, even on longer sessions - even from the beginning of the Early Access version. I myself have not been able to discover any serious bugs over the last few months. However, the development team at Stray Fawn Studio reacted quickly to feedback from the community and has implemented many improvements and fixed bugs over time. The community was actively involved and many suggestions found their way into the game.

I can only think of a few games off the top of my head that could be considered examples of very good Early Access... there are Grounded and just The Wandering Village. The game is therefore not only a showcase for creative game design, but also for good community management. And you can see that in every detail.

The Wandering Village - An indie gem for the coming years

For me The Wandering Village one of the best games of recent years. It's a small, wandering world in which I lose myself anew every time. It is construction and survival, relationships and morals, music and atmosphere. Who City-Builder will feel at home here - but anyone else who simply wants to experience something new should also pay Onbu a visit. I do it again and again. And will continue to do so - now more than ever for the full release on 17.07.2025.

The post A world between breathing and holding your breath - Why The Wandering Village is my favorite city builder of recent years first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Old acquaintances and new challenges in Grounded 2

Well, who is looking forward to a Reunion with the shrinking super-teens Hoops, Max, Willow and Pete? The four intrepid mini-humans are back in the game and are once again cut down to ant size. As if that wasn't enough chaos, we can also look forward to the wondrous brain convolutions of Dr. Tully and the indispensable robot friend BURGL. Incidentally, all of this takes place in the legendary year 1992, in Brookhollow Park, where the grass is taller than any skyscraper and a tipped-over popsicle becomes a deadly avalanche.

The start card from Grounded 2 is gigantic - about as big as the entire map of the first part. There is also a new snow biome with frosty surprises in store. If you want to survive here, you need more than just courage: warm clothing is a must, because even a strawberry ice disaster area can turn into an icy grave.

Buggies and bugs: On crawling animals into adventure

An absolute highlight are the new buggies - rideable insects that revolutionize traversing the world. Already a dream of the community in the first part, they are now becoming reality. So that the little Mounts the level design has been completely revised. This means new areas, more shortcuts, other sources of danger and of course: speed!

There are also some changes on the enemy side. The familiar insects from Part 1 have become more intelligent, develop new tactics and sometimes attack in groups. We also come across new creatures such as green caterpillars, scorpions and other nasty crawlers that make it difficult for us to survive. Thanks to a new multifunctional tool that combines a shovel, hammer and wrench, we save space in our inventory and are still prepared for any situation.

Co-op, archetypes and community decisions

Grounded 2 remains true to itself: it is planned from the outset as a game preview in which the community is actively involved in development. As with its predecessor, the story is not set in stone, but will be significantly shaped by you, the community. Your wishes and feedback are worth their weight in gold and have a significant influence on the development - that's quite an announcement!

New archetypes with individual abilities offer players the opportunity to define their own play style - whether solo or in co-op. The challenges of the gigantic world can be mastered much better in a team. Together you can build bases, forge weapons, breed insect friends and even ride them. The beetle-like companions can not only support you in battle, but also carry materials or help build structures. This is how Grounded 2 a tactical, social and creative adventure at the same time.

A shadow in the thicket: suspense right down to the last root

Behind the colorful backdrop and the adventurous Playgrounds however, there is a constant threat lurking. A dark shadow is watching you, learning and waiting for the right moment to strike. What exactly is following you remains a mystery for the time being - but one thing is clear: every decision, every exploration brings you closer to the truth. The narrative depth, according to Obsidian increase significantly and adapt closely to your progress and playing style.

Survive, build, grow together in Grounded 2

As a human the size of an ant, once familiar places are transformed into an unexplored Miniature kingdom. It's not just about bare survival, but also about adapting and evolving. With individual archetypes that focus on precision, strength or cunning, each player can develop their own style. And because you are stronger together, the focus is once again on co-op mode: build, fight and survive together - that's the motto.

Ride, fight, collect: Insects are your new best friends

They crawl, they fly - and now they carry you through the world. The so-called beetles can not only be ridden, but can also be used as helpers for transporting materials or building bases. In combination with new biomes and smarter enemy AI, this creates a system that cleverly combines strategy and fun.

Release date, platforms and price

Grounded 2 will be released on July 29, 2025 as a Game Preview on Xbox Series X|S, PC and via Xbox Cloud Gaming. The price is 29.99 euros - for Game Pass subscribers, the game is available directly from launch. Thanks to Xbox Play Anywhere you can switch seamlessly between console and PC.

Small, clever, cooperative - Grounded 2 his survival story mix to the next level

Grounded 2 is a new interpretation of the Shrink genres with a clear vision, clever design and an extra portion of heart and soul. Obsidian has deliberately decided against expanding the first part and instead created a game that aims to set new standards in terms of technology and gameplay. With new biomes, improved enemy AI, mounts, co-op functions and community integration Grounded 2 a must-play for fans of survival, crafting and co-op adventures.

The post I've shrunk the kids again! - Grounded 2 takes you on a huge new map with mounts first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

What at first glance looks like a bizarre mixture of Red Dead Redemption and Jurassic Park turns out to be an unusually cleverly designed Genre mix. In a world where evolution has taken a fork in the road, you fight your way through deadly biomes, tinker to survive and desperately search for your kidnapped sister - while Raptors lurking in the undergrowth and the next sandstorm is already approaching.

The Wilderness Law in Dino Path Trail

Players start with one goal: survival. And not in just any wilderness, but in a version of the Wild West that forgives no one. Each region - whether scorching desert, cursed swamp or frosty mountain ridge - places its own demands on tactics and equipment. The rule is: if you stop, you die. And those who fail to plan will be eaten.

The biomes are not only beautiful to look at, but also full of variations: Sub-biomes, hidden paths, random enemies and environmental hazards provide real roguelike flair. Every route, every run is different - not least because players constantly have to weigh up "move on quickly" against "plunder even more resources". And these decisions cost time. Time. Nerves. Lives.

The camp as the last bastion - improvise, expand, survive

What is called a base elsewhere is a rolling bulwark here: the mobile camp. In the midst of the unpredictable landscape, it is the only safe retreat - if you use it correctly. With workbenches, storage crates and useful upgrades, the rolling pile of shelter becomes a vital survival tool. Fortress on wheels.

The clever crafting system forces you to plan ahead. Resources are scarce, and anyone who wastes water or uses a hammer too early will regret it later. The highlight: even the warehouse can only be expanded if there is enough material - which in turn means new risks when scavenging. Everything interlocks, everything costs something. Sometimes it's wood. Sometimes it's blood.

Gun-toting reptiles and vengeful outlaws - welcome to hell

In the heart of Dino Path Trail lies his Combat system. Instead of pure shooting action, players experience tactical ranged combat with increasing intensity. Pistols, rifles, throwing weapons - everything needs to be used carefully. And when your bounty level increases, things get hairy: stronger opponents, more frequent attacks, few breaks to catch your breath.

The dynamics of the enemies are particularly entertaining. Sometimes velociraptors rush through the tall grass, sometimes an outlaw lures you into an ambush with a bitten steak. Or lightning strikes because some madman with thunder god airs appears. Yes, Dino Path Trail doesn't always take itself too seriously - fortunately. Because between the struggle for survival and black humor, a subtle self-irony shines through.

Improvisation or exitus - the true heart of the roguelike

The game rewards clever thinking and punishes routine. If you hoard resources, you can survive longer - if you use them incorrectly, you will learn the hard way. You not only have to manage your equipment, but also your hunger, thirst, temperature and general condition. And as with all good survival games: first you think of wood, then water - and promptly forget that the Sun burns down mercilessly.

The lack of persistent progression may be a point of criticism for some, but it fits in perfectly with the merciless nature of the game. Each run stands on its own, but as you gain experience, a certain routine comes into play. Those who tame the beast are rewarded with a flow that oscillates between the urge to collect, adrenaline rush and Nightmare commutes. And that is addictive.

Sand in the gearbox, raptors in the rear-view mirror - what Dino Path Trail makes it so special

The mixture of western aesthetics, overdrawn survival and clever roguelike design is so unique that it immediately stands out. Visually, the game relies on coherent cartoon violence, but with a well thought-out style. The soundscape creaks, rattles and bangs - and reinforces the feeling that nature is not your friend here.

Particularly worth mentioning: the controller control. It is precise, intuitive and clearly superior to the keyboard. The handling feels fluid, even if it occasionally gets hectic in the turmoil. But that is exactly what suits the game. It is unpredictable, challenging and sometimes simple absurd - in the best sense of the word.

The post Jurassic Park meets hail of bullets - Dino Path Trail and the merciless Roguelike in the Wild West first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

The Pacific is calling - Fight for survival in Project Castaway

With Project Castaway adventurers immerse themselves in a life of hardship. The tropical landscape is a delight with its shimmering water, golden beaches and impressive weather effects. But there are dangers lurking behind the idyllic façade. Hunger and lack of sleep are not only physically noticeable, but also have an impact on mental health. And once madness comes knocking at the door, the line between reality and hallucination is difficult to discern.

The Survival game combines classic mechanics such as hunting, gathering and crafting with a narrative component: Sanity. The gradual deterioration of the mind creates a constant tension that makes the gameplay refreshingly different. This is complemented by the atmosphere, which gives players the feeling of being part of the environment.

Craft and obstacles: Where Project Castaway shines and stumbles

The crafting system in Project Castaway is versatile and offers the opportunity to set up bases, build rafts or create improvised weapons. Particularly exciting is the search for resources on deserted islands and in the Wrecks stranded ships. This shows the attention to detail of Mardonpol Inc.which is rewarded by the exploration.

However, the controls often feel clunky and sluggish. Especially in hectic moments, such as when animals attack, the spongy handling disturbs the otherwise tight gameplay. The inventory system could also do with a general overhaul. A sorting function would significantly improve the flow of the game and minimize chaos.

Graphics to dream about, but technical flaws cloud the view

Visual is Project Castaway a pleasure. The tropical landscapes and the Dynamic weather make the survival game an experience for the eyes. Whether sunsets over the ocean or raging storms - the graphics are impressive.

However, the performance shows weaknesses: Screen shaking and jerky animations can significantly disrupt the flow of the game. Even with the options deactivated, the problem persists, which could affect sensitive gamers. The integration of technologies such as DLSS or FSR would be a welcome upgrade here.

An adventure between loneliness and community

A surprising focus from Project Castaway is the balance between isolation and connectedness. The community updates and the quick fixing of bugs by the developers show that Mardonpol Inc. shows great commitment. While players on the islands struggle with loneliness, the reality shows how important feedback and exchange are for the Development process are.

New items and mechanics could further enrich the game. A craftable fire bow or special tools such as a Zippo lighter would be exciting additions that make the game more varied. Likewise, differences between sleeping places - such as comfort in a hut vs. improvised camps - could offer deeper immersion.

The sea is calling - and the developers should wave back

Project Castaway is a promising survival title with great potential and minor weaknesses. Despite the technical flaws and sometimes cumbersome controls, the adventure impresses with its atmosphere and attention to detail. Anyone who enjoys tropical landscapes, challenging survival mechanics and a pinch of Madness will lose themselves in this game - hopefully without losing their minds.

"The greatest art of survival is to save not only your life, but also your mind." - This seems to be the motto of Mardonpol Inc. and it could hardly be more aptly formulated.

The post Between sandy beach and madness: Project Castaway - a survival dream with a wobbly contact first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Frostpunk 2 takes place several decades after the events of the first part. Humanity has become accustomed to the icy cold, but new threats and changes are looming on the horizon. The world is harsher, resources are scarcer and social cohesion is being put to the test. The sequel picks up on the thematic depth of the first part. It expands it by not only focusing on the sheer necessity of survival. Instead, it also poses the question of the "how?" and "why?" behind the decisions made.

Adding fuel to the fire - the change in resources in Frostpunk 2

From coal mine to oil field

While in the first Frostpunk coal was the most important resource, oil now takes center stage. This change symbolizes more than just technological progress. It reflects the evolution of society: once focused on pure survival, now a community that considers long-term industrial planning and risky decisions. Oil is an efficient but risky commodity. It requires a very different approach to resource planning, presenting players with new moral dilemmas.

The very decision to develop oil wells is accompanied by a moral challenge. Are you prepared to desecrate historical and cultural sites that serve as burial grounds for nomadic ancestors? This is the only way to gain access to the valuable oil reserves. If you forgo these resources, you risk incurring the displeasure of the population. And the danger of not having enough fuel for the city's ever-increasing needs in later stages of the game.

The importance of resource management in Frostpunk 2

As the game progresses, resource management becomes increasingly complex. Oil is not only essential for the city's energy supply, but also for the operation of the increasingly sophisticated industrial facilities that contribute to the community's survival. At the same time, the transition from coal to oil requires a complete overhaul of the existing supply networks. You must invest early in oil production and adapt the infrastructure to save the city from an energy crisis.

Force of nature - the eternal battle against the ice

Cold waves - The vagaries of the Frostland climate

The world of Frostpunk 2 is at least as merciless as that of its predecessor. Unpredictable weather conditions, plummeting temperatures and brutal snowstorms are a constant threat to the city. The focus is not only on expanding the city, but also on forecasting and adapting to the whims of nature. Using the weather forecast, you can try to predict upcoming cold spells and make appropriate preparations.

Before you can expand the city, however, you first have to break up the ice in the area. This costs labor and heat tokens - a currency for construction projects in the game. Small icebreakers travel across the ice floes. The hustle and bustle factor is Frostpunk 2 but not as large as its predecessor. This time, we can't zoom in on every resident.

The depiction of nature as an unconquerable enemy impressively shows players the fragility of human existence. It is a constant struggle for control that becomes more intense as the game progresses. You are forced to think outside the box of mere survival and plan for the long term in your decisions.

Frostpunk 2 and the Frostlands

The world around the city also plays a role in Frostpunk 2 again plays an important role. Here you will find remnants of the old world and resources from failed survivors. By exploring Frostland, you will also uncover more and more of the background story of Frostpunk 2 on.

You can set up supply points at suitable locations and build additional small towns. As their inhabitants are homogeneous, politics do not play a major role there, but you must supply the outposts with supplies and can export their surplus production of resources to New London.

Nature and civilization in balance

The increasing aggravation of climatic conditions is closely linked to the expansion of the city. As the population grows and the city expands, the demand for resources also increases exponentially. At some point, you will no longer be able to find the necessary fuel in the immediate vicinity and will have to tap into other fuel sources. The next snowstorm is sure to come...

You are constantly reminded that nature is an unstoppable opponent. It cannot be controlled, only mitigated. This insight influences your strategic planning, because a reckless approach to the environment can lead to unforeseeable disasters later on. In the worst case scenario, the environment will slowly dismantle your painstakingly built city piece by piece. The steel rusts here. Here, the wind is levering the wooden planks out of their anchoring. And the constant frost makes the windows dull and brittle.

Urban planning 2.0 - From buildings to neighborhoods

Frostpunk 2 evolves the city building system by no longer relying solely on the construction of individual buildings, but on the development of entire districts. You have to decide which districts you build - mining, residential, food or industrial districts - and how they are arranged. Each district you place influences the neighboring districts and thus the efficiency of the city.

The development of the city through the expansion of districts increases the points of contact with neighboring districts. The whole thing is extended by centers in which various resources can be stored. These also have effects on their neighboring districts.

The urban transformation in Frostpunk 2

If you then construct special buildings in the districts later in the game, unplanned effects will occur.

Example. If you later put a chemical greenhouse in a food-producing neighborhood, it will have a negative impact on the health of the residents in the neighboring neighborhoods. Previously, both neighborhoods had a positive influence on each other.

The redesign of urban development is an interesting extension to the first part of Frost Point, in which you could only construct individual buildings. While the construction of a food district ensures the basic supply of the city, an industrial district increases production capacities, but places high demands on the supply of energy and labor. Here you have to strategically weigh up which districts have priority and when, and how they optimally complement each other.

Frostpunk 2 therefore requires not only strategic planning, but also ethical reflection on the social interplay that one creates in one's city.

Icy morality in Frostpunk 2 - A balancing act between ethics and necessity

The burden of leadership

The burden of leadership weighs in Frostpunk 2 even more difficult than in the first part. You are no longer the powerful leader in a crisis. The residents have only appointed you as a caretaker and the perspective is more long-term. It's about more than mere survival.

As the administrator of New London, you are faced with a multitude of morally complex decisions. The introduction of the faction system further complicates these dilemmas. Residents of the city have their own ideological views and you must constantly weigh up their demands, long-term survival strategy and resources. If you slip up here, revolts will quickly break out.

Faction politics in Frostpoint 2 - power games in cold shock

One of the most significant innovations in Frostpunk 2 is the introduction of factions that shape the political structure of the city. These groups represent different ideologies and bring a constant potential for conflict to the game mechanics. The choice between "defeat the cold" or "accept the cold", for example, not only influences resource planning, but also has lasting effects on the relationship with the factions.

This is one of the greatest challenges for the player: how to maintain the fragile balance between the various interest groups without plunging the city into chaos? The city council and diplomatic negotiations force players to find compromises and make strategic decisions that ensure the long-term survival of society. You can bribe, make promises or deploy your secret police against political opponents - if a council decision has authorized this police force. But you can never be 1001TP3 sure before the vote whether the factions you have won over will then have their voting lantern in your favor.

Fight for warmth - selfishness vs. community spirit

A balancing act between society and the individual

The new social mechanics in Frostpunk 2 force players to constantly weigh up the good of the community against their individual needs. Resource scarcity, rationing and the expansion of districts emphasize the responsibility you bear for your population. Every decision has the potential to influence the morale and cohesion of the city - a balancing act that decides between victory and defeat.

An example of this dynamic is the decision to sacrifice elderly residents to alleviate food shortages. The pragmatic benefits are obvious, but what are the long-term consequences for the moral fabric of the community? These questions make Frostpunk 2 a profound experience that can always challenge you to think beyond the fight for survival.

Frostpunk 2: A frosty game with moral depth

Frostpunk 2 builds on the strengths of its predecessor and expands the gameplay to include deeper strategic and moral aspects. While the focus in the first part was still very much on survival in a crisis situation, the second part adds Frostpunk 2 The faction system and the expanded use of resources add a more complex social and strategic dynamic. You no longer just have to meet the city's supply needs, but also take political conflicts and long-term planning into account.

The strategic innovations, such as the construction of entire districts instead of individual buildings and interaction with the outside world via Frostland teams, give the game a stronger sense of control and progression. Nevertheless, the oppressive atmosphere and the constant pressure that Frostpunk has made it so unique. In many respects Frostpunk 2 a worthy successor that builds on the depth and challenge of the original without simply being a "more and bigger" copy.

With its haunting portrayal of human fragility and grave moral choices, the film is Frostpunk 2 a complex experience that challenges the player to question the nature of survival, community and humanity: How far will you go for the survival of the community? What sacrifices are you willing to make?

The post Frostpunk 2 - Pouring oil on the fire or shock-freezing morale? first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

A look at the releases: from Frostpunk to Frostpunk 2

The original. Frostpunk was released by 11bit Studios in April 2018 and struck a chord (Metacritic 84/100). The game combined gripping survival elements with city building and a unique steampunk aesthetic. The haunting atmosphere, the moral decisions and the profound story contributed to this, Frostpunk to become a milestone in the genre of building strategy games.

The DLCs. In the following years, the development team released several DLCs that expanded and deepened the gaming experience. These expansions introduced new challenges, such as shedding light on the time before the eternal winter or dealing with internal conflicts in society. They enabled players to delve even deeper into the frosty world of Frostpunk and develop new strategies to keep their cities alive.

Announcement of Frostpunk 2

In 2022, the announcement of Frostpunk 2 caused quite a stir in the gaming community. The hype surrounding the successor is huge and expectations are correspondingly high. You can read more about this below.

The developers of Frostpunk: 11 bit Studios

The Polish development studio. 11bit Studiosthat lies behind the haunting universe of Frostpunk has made a name for itself in the gaming industry. Founded in 2010 in Warsaw, Poland, the studio has since released a series of successful games. In addition to its own titles, the studio now also acts as a publisher for titles from partner studios with which it cooperates. Known for their creative approaches and innovative game concepts, the 11bit Studios has earned a place as a leading developer of indie games.

This War of Mine and the road to success. Before Frostpunk brought 11bit Studios another masterpiece: This War of Mine. The game, which focuses on the civilian side of war, received worldwide praise for its emotional depth and moral complexity. Players were put in the role of civilians fighting for survival and had to make difficult decisions to keep their group alive. This experience shaped the reputation of 11bit Studios as a developer of games with profound stories and meaningful gameplay decisions.

Influences and philosophy. The games from 11bit Studios are often characterized by their social and political themes. The studio has set itself the task of developing games that are not only entertaining, but also thought-provoking and evoke emotional reactions. This philosophy is reflected both in This War of Mine as well as in Frostpunk where the focus is on moral decisions and the consequences of the player's actions.

An icy apocalypse

The icy world. In Frostpunk the world is surrounded by a relentless cold that threatens to engulf everything. The aesthetics and background story are inspired by the atmosphere of the Victorian age and the era of the industrial revolution. In this dark and fascinating environment, mankind is fighting for survival. The icy landscapes and the barren, hostile nature of the environment are a constant reminder of how fragile the balance between life and death is in this world.

The search for warmth. In the midst of this icy apocalypse, people have sought refuge around powerful generators that provide vital warmth. These generators are the heart of every settlement and offer the inhabitants protection from the deadly temperatures. They are not only technical marvels, but also symbols of hope in a world that seems doomed. You must operate and maintain the generators to ensure that your colony survives.

Your role as a leader. As the leader of a small colony, it is in Frostpunk It is your responsibility to manage the city and lead the people who are wavering between hope and despair. You must make decisions that will seal the fate of your community. In doing so, you will have to deal with moral dilemmas and ethical questions. Do you want to use resources for research to develop new technologies or use them to build housing and medical facilities? Every decision has consequences and influences the fate of the entire colony.

The challenges of survival. Survival in Frostpunk is no easy task. You have to deal with resource shortages, diseases, natural disasters and pressure from the population. You must meet the needs of its inhabitants and at the same time ensure that the city is equipped to withstand the icy cold.

To the death. It is a constant balancing act between hope and despair, between life and death. And in this frozen world, the fate of the people entrusted to you is in your hands. Just like your fate. Because if your citizens no longer believe that you are leading them well, they will chase you into the eternal ice.

A CityBuilder but round: The art of city building in Frostpunk

The challenge of the generator. The city you see in Frostpunk must be grouped around a central generator to protect themselves from the icy cold. This generator serves as the lifeline of your colony, as it not only supplies heat, but also provides the energy for the vital facilities.

The planning of the city layout. The circular layout of your city requires thorough planning in order to make efficient use of the limited resources. You must construct roads and buildings in such a way that they allow an optimal distribution of heat and resources. This requires not only an understanding of the basic principles of urban planning, but also the ability to react flexibly to the needs of your growing population. Incorrect placement of buildings or roads can lead to bottlenecks and jeopardize the survival of your city.

The importance of infrastructure. You need to ensure that your inhabitants have access to vital facilities such as housing, medical facilities and food sources, while making sure that routes are short and transportation routes are efficient. A well-designed infrastructure can improve the well-being of your inhabitants and help them survive the harsh conditions of Frostpunk's icy world.

The search for balance: The key to success in Frostpunk lies in the ability to find a balance between the needs of your population and the available resources. You must constantly weigh up how best to use your limited resources. This requires not only strategic thinking, but also the willingness to make tough decisions that can affect the well-being of your inhabitants. In Frostpunk city building is more than just a technical challenge - it's an art that can determine the fate of your colony.

Social Survival: Together through the icy apocalypse

The City must not die. In Frostpunk the focus is not just on the survival of individuals, but on the well-being of society as a whole. The challenges the game presents you with require you to look beyond the well-being of individual fates and make decisions that ensure the survival of the entire city.

Frostpunk: Moral dilemmas. As you build and manage your city, you are constantly confronted with moral dilemmas. You have to decide how to deal with scarce resources, how to respond to disease and unrest and how to meet the needs of your population. These decisions are not only of a technical or strategic nature, but also have moral consequences that can affect the well-being of society as a whole.

The good of the community. In Frostpunk the good of the community comes before the individual. You have to make sacrifices and tough decisions to ensure the survival of your city. Sometimes this means rationing resources or enacting tough laws to maintain order. It is a balance between individual needs and the common will to survive that determines the survival of your colony.

The consequences of your decisions. The decisions you make in Frostpunk The decisions you make have far-reaching consequences for the fate of your colony. You must act with foresight and consider the impact of your decisions on the well-being of the entire community. Sometimes this means making short-term sacrifices to achieve long-term goals. You will have to make difficult decisions, accepting the death or suffering of a few in order to ensure the survival of the majority. Frostpoint is a challenge that presents you as a leader with big moral and ethical questions where you cannot find a moral compromise.

Tips and tricks for entry into Frostpunk can be found here: 7 tips and tricks for Frostpunk

Outlook for Frostpunk 2: A new Frost Era begins

Continuation of the immersive gaming experience: Frostpunk 2 will take up the torch of its predecessor and offer an even more captivating gaming experience. The Developer have promised to take the gripping atmosphere and profound moral choices that characterized the first game to a new level. You can once again immerse yourself in a world characterized by icy cold and despair, and face new challenges and dilemmas that will put your leadership skills to the test.

Expansion of the scope of the game: Based on the preliminary information Frostpunk 2 will be bigger and more extensive in every respect than its predecessor. The survivors have now got the cold reasonably well under control. But even though the energy source has been switched from coal to oil, Part 2 remains challenging. The number of available technologies and buildings has been significantly expanded. You will have other options for designing and managing your city: You will no longer place every building yourself, but instead determine what which districts are to be used for.

Deepening of the society survival aspect: A particular focus of Frostpunk 2 will focus on the aspect of "Society Survival", which is not only about meeting the physical needs of residents, but also taking social and psychological needs into account. You will deal with complex social dynamics and Conflicts have to deal with. There are various factions that influence the city's politics. Without the majority behind you, you cannot pass any laws.

While you are trying to find a functioning Society In order to maintain your colony and deal with possible unrest and uprisings, you will also have to demonstrate political tact. This expanded aspect of gameplay will make the game experience even more complex and offer you new strategic opportunities to ensure the survival of your colony.

Conclusion and anticipation: Overall promises Frostpunk 2to exceed fans' expectations and become a masterpiece of the survival strategy genre. With an expanded scope, improved graphics and a deeper storyline, the sequel to the frosty adventure is set to captivate players once again and take them on an emotional and gripping journey.

Release and versions. The release has been announced for July 25, 2024. The game is to be released completely finished. No early access phase is planned. However, those who pre-order the deluxe version, which costs just under 70 euros, can take part in a closed beta phase in April and can start the story mission 72 hours earlier in July than is possible with the standard version, which costs 45 euros.

The post Frostpunk - The original and a preview of Frostpunk 2 first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Myth of Empires is a world full of possibilities

Myth of Empires convinces with its impressive openness and versatility. With more than 1300 production modes, the game offers an almost limitless range of possibilities for building your own empire. From mechanical tools to city defenses and a free planting game, every decision has an impact on the course of the game. This freedom allows players to shape and manipulate their environment as they see fit, making each game unique.

The game places a special focus on the taming and utilization of NPCs, horses and wild animals. The official version 1.0 enriches this mechanic with new BOSS NPCs, beast kings and small animals that can serve as energy sources for mechanical city defenses. These in-depth taming and cultivation games provide an additional strategic layer and allow players to tame excellent combat partners and means of transportation.

The ancient battlefield of Myth of Empires

The heart of Myth of Empires are the epic battles that take place on the ancient battlefields. With a wide selection of cold weapons, armor and technical equipment, players can customize their battle gear. The official version 1.0 introduces power-mechanical city defenses and other combat equipment to enrich the war experience. The ability to freely choose weapons and strategies invites players to constantly face new challenges and perfect their own art of war.

Cross-server battles and diplomatic strategies

In Myth of Empires is not only about building and defending your own empire, but also about interacting with other players. The creation of administrative regions and the opportunity to compete for the position of district judge open up a complex system of alliances, diplomacy and war. These aspects help to ensure that the game is constantly evolving and that no two games are the same.

A personalized career in a vibrant world

With 25 development lines, a 16-level title system and more than 100 achievements, the Myth of Empires an impressive depth of character development. Players can shape their career according to their own ideas, be it as a general, citizen or another role. This diversity makes it possible to create a unique story in the world of Myth of Empires to write.

All in all Myth of Empires as an impressive sandbox game that impresses with its open world, diverse design options and in-depth mechanics. It invites you to build, defend and expand your own empires. Whether by taming the wilderness or conquering ancient battlefields - Myth of Empires offers a multi-faceted and immersive experience that will delight strategists and builders alike. As a famous philosopher once said: "An empire is not built in a day; but with Myth of Empires it can at least start that way."

The post Myth of Empires - Of medieval battlefields and tamable horses first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Survival strategy for soon-to-be and non-zombies

In the overview mode of the game, which looks more like a cuddle apocalypse than a horror apocalypse UNDYING the two now embark on the path to a possible future - at least for their son. Whether in a former Suburban idyll or directly in the city center, the duo sets off in search of places to retreat to and safety. The theoretical intention of not getting too close to the living corpses - the bite reveals that it has not worked optimally so far - can sometimes be implemented more or less well during the game.

But where are you supposed to go when the insidious Shadow slowly approach and reveal themselves to be greedy zombies. So it is the mother's top priority to protect Cody and gain experience levels at the same time. These skills are passed on to the son as a kind of training session so that he can survive after his mother's mutation.

Time is UNDYING

But if the time pressure of the impending transformation is not enough, players soon realize that some resources in the game are limited, to say the least. Anling must now keep an eye out for these rare and useful items - all against the clock. Because either she can sell it to a trader or she recognizes a suitability for upgrading the item. Items can be developed and weapons upgraded in special camps. They also serve as storage for utensils, as the inventory expands along the way. dramatic reasons proves to be very limited.

Eerie everyday life in the undead metropolis

In this very emotional The story, which revolves around the despair of a desperate mother, captivates UNDYING not only through the main characters, but also through the blurred environments and the reduced color palette. Spots of light constantly follow the duo and accompany them to an old, desolate restaurant or through an almost deserted city center with a confusing number of intersections. Although the night seems dark and creepy, it can provide a safe haven with a suitable hiding place. But finding this will be one of the main tasks when exploring the city during the day. The other main pillar for the Survival are high levels of experience for Cody.

UNDYING is survival with a future

The initially fearful son, who runs around wildly when his mother shoots at the undead with a gun, becomes a growing young man who can defend himself. But don't worry: in contrast to the shortage of useful equipment, there is one thing in abundance - zombies!

In addition to leveling up survival instincts such as cooking, finding hiding places and the Crafting of special equipment, there is of course also the opportunity to work off on the Zombie subject are available in combat mode. However, in order to have enough energy for the infight with the undead, the hunger and thirst targets must be satiated every day. Let Cody know everything he needs to survive... before it's too late.

The post UNDYING - Mother and son against the apocalypse first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

An unstoppable group

It's not just a motley bunch of heroes who go out and beat up monsters, it's a community. A team of five various heroeseach with their own personality, fighting style and unique abilities. The variety of skills is the key to success. New possibilities open up with every playthrough, such as new heroes, new adventures and new items that can be equipped. No two adventures are the same and that's what makes them so appealing. The first game seems restrictive, but those who experiment and combine will find the perfect group and the necessary equipment to put Goltar in his place.

Fellowship - Ultimate group dynamics

Formation is everything. It applies in real time, the optimal formation to defeat the enemy hordes. Flexibility is required. Sometimes offensive, sometimes defensive, depending on the situation. Each formation has its advantages and the right timing is crucial. It's a constant shift between attack and defense, a chess game with magical abilities... and a game in which players always have to be one step ahead.

Synergy is the magic word. Powerful combos can be activated by combining the abilities of the heroes. These synergies are the key to destroying the monstrous hordes. Each ability of a hero interacts with another ability of another hero. This makes the fight against the monsters ever more impressive. This guarantees an increase in fun... or frustration. The best thing, however, is that you'll be itching to start a new round every now and then.

Plunder, adapt, conquer

The world of Eldrida is full of treasures. Raw materials, magic stones and other valuable items are waiting to be discovered and collected. With these treasures you can the heroes improved and strengthened become. The heroes do not always get these items straight away, as the next wave of monsters is not long in coming. Finding a way through the wall of trolls and wolves sometimes requires skillful navigation. The enemies are varied and strong: over 100 unique monsters, fearsome bosses and mini-bosses with their own techniques and attack patterns.

Taking small steps towards fellowship

Early Access already offers an impressive insight into the game, what Fellowship has to offer. 8 out of 12 heroes, various synergy and combo abilities, 3 formations and 4 out of 10 regions are waiting to be explored. Plus a breathtaking, hand-drawn world brought to life down to the smallest detail. Fellowship is an adventure, a journey, a challenge - and it has it all... With an impressive variety of heroes, formations and synergies, it offers players endless battles.

The post Fellowship - Heroic adventures in the shadow of Eldrida first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Chimera was first presented at the PC Gaming Show has been unveiled and has already attracted the attention of players. The known details are still limited. However, Chimera is set to go into early access in the foreseeable future. The Polish studio wants to use this phase to optimize the game with feedback from the community.

Update: Chimera is being further developed under the new title StarRupture. Here you can read the Report on the current playtest.

The vision behind Chimera

Players should be placed in a Sci-fi world which not only boasts impressive graphics, but also a multi-layered plot and challenging gameplay. You take over - alone or in Multiplayer - take control of one of the main characters stranded on an alien planet.

Chimera is characterized by a cycle of destruction and Reconstruction are haunted. The forces of nature are merciless, and hostile aliens pose a constant threat. But every challenge offers an opportunity for growth and development.

Base building and the weather

This is one of Chimera's focuses, a base on the planet in order to exploit its resources. The Ecosystem However, the climate is structured in such a way that phases of arctic cold alternate with extremely hot phases in which everything burns.

In this world of extremes, players also have to face hostile alien animals and plants. Everything is potentially deadly: animals want to eat you, Poisoning plants you and the weather can either freeze or burn you.

Well done to those who are well prepared in Chimera

"These catastrophic natural events are as productive as they are destructive, changing the world around you in ways that could help you expand your center base. Habitats can burn down to make room for new ones, or previously hidden resources can be uncovered," says Michał Stawicki, game director at Creepy Jar.

If you plan well, you can save yourself the trouble of laboriously removing the poisonous plant near the base when the Next heatwave which burns anyway.

So nature is sometimes deadly, but sometimes also helpful. If you plan well, you can take advantage of this.

Conclusion: A future full of survival and action

Chimera by Creepy Jar is set to be more than just another survival game. It's a promise to offer a unique gaming experience where survival is not just an option, but a reality. a constant challenge is. With a mix of adventure, sci-fi and intense gameplay, Chimera could be the next big thing in the survival genre.

The post Chimera - Survival in a ruthless Creepy Jar world first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Niche - a genetics survival game - Adam, Eve and the hexagons

Niche - a genetics survival game begins with a fox-like animal called Adam, who is snatched away from his family. It lands on an island where it meets Eve. The two foxes are the founders of your new species. Because they are relatively similar, the two creatures can reproduce and give you the first members of your tribe. However, this marks the beginning of a long journey before you actually see a species in front of you, with their surroundings perfectly.

The game is played in different biotopes, which are always divided into small hexagonal fields. In each biotope there are different Plantsfood sources, but also other life forms that could potentially be dangerous to your species. In the style of a turn-based role-playing game, your creatures have action points that you can spend so that they can gather food, explore the environment or mate, for example. However, you must use your action points wisely, as they also represent the lifespan of your tribe members.

The Niche Drop Evolution

A key element in Niche - a genetics survival game is the DNA of the creatures your tribe encounters on its journey. Each Life form has different genetic factors. For example, some animals can swim, while others can fly. Some species are very strong and others can camouflage themselves from enemies. Through clever pairing and reproduction, you transfer genetic factors into the pool of your species in order to bring offspring into the world that are better adapted to the environment. For example, you can specifically breed the ability to swim into your tribe if you are in a biotope where most of the resources are in the water.

The correct combination and sorting of genetic Factors is essential for survival. Otherwise, you will quickly become prey to predators or diseases that can destroy your entire species. Then you start again from scratch to experience the process of reproduction and adaptation all over again. However, if you play it smart, you'll help your species face a long future in Niche - a genetics survival game.

The post Niche - a genetics survival game: love, genetics and a little divine influence first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

At the center of "Oxbow" is Piastova, the first location that players can enter either individually or cooperative will visit. New missions and numerous new characters await here. In addition, everyday life in the villages of Oxbow will be livelier, with additions such as new workplaces. For example Players chopping wood at the forest worker station or get involved in butter production, which makes the medieval hustle and bustle a lot more intense.

A trailer for the update can be seen here: YouTube

One highlight is that all new missions can be played both alone and in collaboration with friends can be completed. Damian Szymański, CEO of Render Cube, commented: "We want to give Medieval Dynasty fans more ways to play and expand the overall game experience. The co-op mode with the Oxbow map is one of the biggest and most exciting Extensions, that have been added to the game since launch."

In Medieval Dynasty, players begin as a young man living a simple life, learning and honing his skills as a farmer and hunter. It is his task to build his own home from the ground up, starting with a simple hut and ending with a sprawling farm. In addition, he must motivate people to settle near him and work for him in order to ensure the survival of his dynasty.

The game features a vast 3D open world that reflects life in the Middle Ages, including the challenges of a harsh winter and unpredictable events. Throughout the game, players hone their skills and create a legacy destined to secure their bloodline's place in history for generations to come.

The post Medieval Dynasty - Long-awaited feature within reach first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Not only are players left alone in a barren environment after an accident during the hike and without any supplies worth mentioning, they are also faced with no weapons available. Unlike in many other survival games, it will therefore not be possible to create a One-man army and to solve any problems with violence.

There is no combat in Winter Survival, only survival

Instead, players must find a way to avoid encounters with wild animals in order to survive. But it's not just wolves and bears that can be dangerous. The freezing cold and crippling hunger quickly become a physical and psychological burden. This means players need to find shelter and supplies. The "good" news is that the nameless protagonist is not the first person to be involved in this inhospitable place has to find its way around. A shelter therefore does not necessarily have to be self-built, but can already be found halfway usable.

Players will also be able to pick up abandoned Animal traps from hunters that once roamed the area years ago. This allows smaller animals to be caught and a shelter to be better protected from attacks by predators. To ensure that exploring the game world is not too easy, however, the developers have also built in a weather mechanic that causes sudden snowstorms, excessive snowfall and icy winds. The weather can therefore strike just as relentlessly and suddenly as a pack of wolves.

Save yourself or lose your mind

The harder it is for the players to survive, the more difficult it will be for them, Reality and hallucination from each other. This is ensured by a game element dubbed the "reason mechanic" by the developer. However, the Polish studio behind Winter Survival has not yet revealed how exactly and to what extent this will manifest itself during the actual gameplay.

In any case permanent survival in the mountains is not planned. Rather, the aim is to collect enough supplies to make a trip to an old ranger station on a hill. From there, players can call for help and ultimately be rescued. Whoever manages this can then justifiably call themselves Survivalist name.

The post Winter Survival - Realistic fight for survival in the freezing cold first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Because AWAY: The Survival Series is set in a distant future where there are no humans. But that doesn't mean you can't experience any adventures. Because you have to uncover the mysterious origins of this world! But be careful! Because Hidden around every corner predators may also be lurking for you, who would happily make a small Sugar Glider their next meal. Will you succeed as a Sugar Glider in "AWAY: The Survival Series"? survive and solve the mysteries of this world?

AWAY: The Survival Series - The first part of a survival series

The title probably already gave it away: The Sugar Glider adventure is only the first part in a series of survival games. Breaking Walls, Developer and publisher from AWAY, is planning further episodes. AWAY: The Survival Series VR game offers you an immense game world that invites you to explore every corner with its beautiful AAA graphics.

The impressive orchestral soundtrack, presented by award-winning composer and audio director Mike Raznick, enchants the audience. living world into a wild flurry of details, light and shadow.

AWAY is presented to you after several years of development by Breaking Walls, a small Indie studio from Montreal in Canada. The development team consists of a mix of new recruits and veterans of the games industry and combines experience from various games such as Assassin's Creed, Far Cry, Splinter Cell and Rainbow Six.

A wild world

AWAY: The Survival Series takes you on a bizarre Journey into the wilderness. Flying through an adventurous world as a Sugar Glider, hunting locusts and being on the lookout for biting spiders are the main factors when it comes to for survival goes. But while players search for shelter in the midst of this challenging wilderness, they also have to contend with somewhat less natural challenges. These include the sporadic frustration of obstacles on the map and some jumps that end in a surprisingly high trajectory. But hey, who hasn't always wanted to witness a Sugar Glider seemingly outwit gravity?

Maybe AWAY: The Survival Series isn't perfect, but it has a special charmthat captivates players time and time again. It has a unique atmosphere, which is created by the successful depiction of the animal world and the fascinating, if sometimes somewhat confusing game world. Admittedly, at times it feels like a documentary about the Wilderness with a dash of slapstick, but there's just something irresistibly funny about a sugar glider clutching the camera or fighting with a berry.

-

A game key was kindly made available to me via keymailer.co.

The post AWAY: The Survival Series - Explore, Discover, Survive first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

As the name of the title implies, your task will be to save Mars for to conquer mankind. The story of Occupy Mars takes place in a fictitious and not-too-distant future in which mankind is searching for a new habitat and at the same time wants to exploit the resources of the celestial body.

As The linchpin is your base where you plan your next steps, manage your resources and provide a safe place to live for your colonists.

All beginnings are hard in Occupy Mars: The Game

Occupy Mars: The Game is described by the developers as a hard science fiction experience. in an open world in which the fight for survival is omnipresent and will confront you with all kinds of challenges and adversities. Above all, the weather phenomena on Mars, such as sand and solar storms, severe temperature drops and meteor showers, will make life difficult for you and repeatedly damage your base and structures.

With the initially scarce resources available, you keep your base up to date, research new technologies and provide essential resources such as food and water. Once you have the basics in place, you can set about exploring Mars and discovering new areas where you can build new bases or settlements for your colonists.

In the search for of the new home are various parameters such as underground water resources or temperatures that do not drop too much. Otherwise, your colonists' chances of survival will be very low.

A realistic world, upgrades and more

When working on Occupy Mars: The Game, the developers said they placed particular emphasis on a realistic depiction of the Red Planet. Not only physically correct day and night changes or temperature developments await you. You can also control the energy of the Sun by setting up collectors and using the stored solar energy to supply your bases with electricity.

The developers go on to say that your plan to colonize Mars and transform it into a new Home for humanity will quickly turn into an "unpredictable and dangerous undertaking". If something doesn't go according to plan or even the Lives of your colonists is at risk, it is up to you to make a quick decision and turn everything around - at least for the time being.

According to the creative minds at Pyramide Games, the various upgrades that you can research and then produce will play an important role. With the upgrades in Occupy Mars: The Game, it is possible to expand the colonists' bases and settlements or to further develop your own vehicles such as the rover.

With a technically advanced vehicle, it is possible to initially reach seemingly inaccessible areas on Marsand mine the resources hidden there. A help that should not be underestimated in the fight for survival.

-

A game key was kindly made available to me via keymailer.co.

The post Occupy Mars: The Game - The Conquest of the Red Planet first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Houston, we have a base

The fascination of the unknown often begins with the first steps on foreign soil. The unknown terrain needs to be carefully shaped, and yes, even the celestial body underfoot seems to be molded from clay, ready to be transformed into artistic sculptures by creative minds. In Astroneer, the familiar MinecraftSandpit to cosmic playground, where megaliths and ramps to the moon are just a "right mouse click" away.

In addition to shaping the home soil, it is also about survival in the infinite vastness of space. Oxygen is scarce and the temperature fluctuates between "too cold to survive" and "too hot for the spacesuit". Therefore, building a functional base is not an optional luxury, but a necessity. And the players can give free rein to their creativity - from the underground cave base to the floating cloud fortress, there are virtually no limits to the imagination.

Space, infinite expanses...

...and lots of unexplored planets. Seven in number, to be precise. Each of them holds its own challenges and secrets. The procedurally generated worlds promise variety, sometimes the spherical surface offers a wide view, sometimes deep cave levels force you to explore carefully. Each planet and every moonscape offers its own unique atmosphere that invites players to keep discovering and exploring new things.

Every surface, every cave and every valley can be redesigned and explored down to the smallest detail. The players use their deformation toolto shape the terrain as you wish and mine valuable resources. And who knows, maybe the next hole in the ground will lead to previously undiscovered treasures or mysterious structures waiting to reveal their secrets.

Interaction in Astroneer is the key to success

Creativity is a central element in Astroneer. Whether it's collecting and combining resources to create new tools, modules and vehicles, or playing in co-op mode with up to four friends, Astroneer is the place to be. Colossal industrial plants to build. The game gives players a free hand. Because only those who dare win - and this is especially true in the vastness of space.

But despite the omnipresent danger, Astroneer also offers space for Quieter moments and experiments. The sandbox environment allows players to break away from the usual Fighting for survival and instead invent and share your own games and challenges. This is how the Fight for survival a truly creative adventure.

One small step for gamers, one giant leap for Astroneer

Roam through cosmic sandboxes in a spacesuit, shape planets according to your own wishes and constantly experience new adventures - Astroneer takes you into a world, which, despite the unforgiving conditions of outer space, knows how to score points with playful ease and creativity. Whether as a lone space pioneer or in a cooperative exploration frenzy, the universe belongs to the brave. And in Astroneer, anyone can become a pioneer of the 25th century.

The post Astroneer - Nobody reads Engels and Marx in space first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

With a rifle against dinosaurs

Games like Dino Crisis still work today, apart from the outdated gameplay. Instinction nevertheless polishes up the intellectual template. More than 20 different species of dinosaurs make the players the Life to hell. If you don't get to the top early End of the food chain is quickly processed into fresh meat. In between the shooting, all kinds of environmental puzzles beg for attention.

In a way, the shooter is similar to later Tomb Raider or Uncharted games, although the atmosphere is far darker and more threatening. Don't worry, by the way, if the Goddess of luck in solo mode The co-op feature allows you to invite up to three friends to explore the swamps, forests and caves together.

Top graphics thanks to Unreal Engine 5

Stylistically, Instinction corresponds to its quasi-stepbrothers. It goes without saying that the graphics are completely new. The developers have given the shooter a realization with the Unreal Engine 5 on the Body tailor-made. The player consistently feels transported into a semi-open world in which every step can mean inevitable death. When Giant dinosaurs in the firmament or velociraptors creeping through the corridors, goosebumps are guaranteed. If the gameplay is even half as good as the graphics, the dinosaur shooter has great potential to make a lasting impression on the entire industry.

Is Instinction more than Hammer optics?

In any case, it is clear that the developers seem to know what they are doing with the action adventure are planning. The release is currently scheduled for the second half of 2023, so further trailers can be expected in the coming months. It is worth staying on the ball and waiting for the next development steps. It is simply too early to draw a comprehensive conclusion at the moment.

The post Instinction - At eye level with the lizards first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

In search of freedom

The little ones used to live carefree and with the Nature in harmony. However, the emergence of the giants has upset the delicate balance and the animal world is in turmoil. Even long after the giants have left the land, the little ones cannot feel safe. For this reason, the peoples decide to send out so-called forerunners to search for a new peace. The task of the pioneers is to get to the bottom of the Smallands' story and find out why the animals are behaving so aggressively. Only then can the little ones hope to be able to sleep peacefully and without fear again at night.

Little fighters

Smalland: Survive the Wilds is an interesting Genre mix from Grounded and ARK. On the one hand, the players have to big world and face dangers such as a horde of giant ants, spiders or even lizards. On the other hand, the aim is to collect resources in order to build new equipment, set up small bases and create small retreats. In classic survival style, however, equipment only has a limited shelf life, meaning that every blow with the club could potentially be the last. Collecting new materials is therefore essential if players want to survive as long as possible.

Smalland: Survive the Wilds will turn you into a nature boy

An important element of Smallands is the animal world. Are grasshoppers and co. initially hostileIn the course of the game, the little ones can unlock ways to tame the different animals as described in this text, for example. Tamed animals can be used as mounts, fighters or even flight options.

However, there is also the option of building insect armor. These have wings, for example, and allow you to glide like a dragonfly. Accordingly, other armor offers different abilities that players can make use of. As a positive side effect, some armor even affects how the animal world reacts to the little ones. If you walk through a colony of the industrious insects in ant armor, they will unusual presence but don't immediately start the next war. So it's worth restocking your closet more often.

Stronger together

Even though Smalland: Survive the Wilds can be played completely solo, Merge Games offers the brave mini heroes the option to team up with up to nine other players to take on the wilderness together. Among other things, the ten players can fight as a raid group against nasty insect armies or work together to improve the individual bases. This also makes multiplayer games much more tactical, as players can Divide tasks among each other and benefit from each other's different equipment.

Smalland: Survive the Wilds is playfully informal

Despite their name, the Smallands are large and there is a lot to discover. For players who have little experience with survival games, there are Helpful NPCwhich guide the little ones on the right path through various missions and show them how they can survive for more than a few minutes.

However, players with survival experience are not forced to go through various quests before they can jump into the fray. Players can decide for themselves how they want to experience the Smallands and whether they would prefer it to be a little gentler, or whether the game should be out to kill them from the very first minute.

The post Smalland: Survive the Wilds - When the little ones set off on big adventures first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

The simple but effective Zombie horror game from developer PikPok won over players and critics with great graphics for a mobile game, varied action and a dark atmosphere. Now the studio is going one step further with Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days. The simple auto-runner becomes a side-scroller that combines various game elements. And it's no longer just about surviving yourself. Instead, players encounter other Survivors and have to help them.

Zombie apocalypse is different in "Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days": run, fight, help

Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days is set in 1980 in the fictional city of Walton City in the American state of Texas. The huge metropolis is in an economic crisis and is also suffering from a heatwave when another disaster strikes: all of a sudden, the city is overrun by a horde of zombies, a large part of the population dies within a very short time and also turns into undead monsters. The few survivors have only one chance. They must escape the city walls unharmed in order to reach a safe zone.

Once the players have encountered a few survivors, the PC game develops from PikPok a shelter survival game. The players have to find shelters for the survivors and barricade them to provide short-term protection from the zombies. Several such "safe houses" can be built at the same time. To do this, players must search the city for resources and useful items. Of course, they also have to find or make weapons to fend off zombie attacks. The more time passes, the more difficult it becomes to search certain areas of the city for useful materials, as more and more zombies are running around.

The pitfalls of morality: when survival is all that counts

With Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days, the development team not only wants to offer players an exciting survival thriller, but also explore the human abyss. This is why the survival elements are combined with social game mechanics. The players not only have to protect the survivors. They also need support in dealing with the physical and psychological consequences of the zombie pandemic. Players are quickly faced with the The challenge to feed a group of people, take care of their worries and stop them from going crazy and endangering everyone.

According to the development team, how players deal with these challenges is up to them. They can try to equip several survivors with weapons so that attacks can be better fended off. Or they can play their way to the Autocrat and control the others. At the latest when it comes to the question of who has to be left behind to guarantee the survival of the others, players will reach the limits of their own emotional resilience.

The post Into the Dead: Our Darkest Days - Dark zombie horror first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.

Stray Fawn Studio, an independent development studio from Switzerland, are the creators of Niche - a genetics survival game and Nimbatus - The Space Drone Constructor. Both games were characterized by a high degree of freedom of play and the idea of creating life and technology. In Nimbatus - The Space Drone Constructor, players constructed drones and in Niche - a genetics survival game, a new species of cute mammals had to be created through genetic simulation.

Can humans and animals enter into a fruitful symbiosis?

The Wandering Village is obviously based on these ideas. In the simulation game, life is supposed to thrive on the back of the creature, which the survivors call Onbu. Although Onbu is huge, it is not infinite. Therefore, unlike in many Construction simulations make do with limited space. Priorities must therefore be set when creating production chains, cultivating fields and constructing buildings for the settlement. The situation is made even more difficult by the fact that Onbu is not standing still, but is constantly moving, turning the small village into a "Wandering Village".

The highlight here is that Onbu roams through various areas that are assigned to the players and their Settlement each with their own dangers that make life difficult. Areas with poisonous spores, magical but chaotic weather conditions and attacking parasites always create life-threatening situations. Players must therefore always consider which dangers need to be averted when building the village. The ultimate goal is to strengthen the bond with Onbu to such an extent that players can Influence The creature's movement can influence the direction in which it moves, so that it may eventually discover a healthier environment.

Players have to master a special challenge

Onbu is a peaceful creature and players are encouraged by the game design of Stray Fawn Studio to build their settlement in such a way that the animal also benefits from the "partnership". This is further supported by colorful graphics that mix 3D design and handmade 2D animations.

However, this does not mean that you can only build and create in a symbiotic direction. Players who are only out to benefit the village and would rather develop new technologies than think about natural coexistence between humans and creatures can harm Onbu and the desired symbiosis and put the entire settlement in permanent danger. Therein lies the special The challenge from The Wandering Village.

What awaits you in the future in The Wandering Village

The Early Access version has now been released and Onbu is roaming the screens. Stray Fawn has not rested on its laurels and has immediately announced further features. So we can look forward to new biomes, for example: Water and Ruins. There will be new locations and events, as well as new buildings and even tameable birds. Another exciting feature will be flying merchants. There will also be a number of improvements, such as: more story content, new and improved Onbu interactions, more mechanics for town building, better villager AI and better difficulty balancing.

The Wandering Village tips and tricks

The fact is: the colorful world is deceptive. The Wandering Village quickly becomes a challenge. Here are some tips to help you build your village:

1. I'm not a fan of tutorials, but in this case: Do it!
2. Buildings with which you can interact with Onbu are of great importance. Build an Unbo doctor and the Onbu kitchen early on.
3. Short distances, short transportation times - works in every construction game.
4. Use berry bushes with the help of berry farms. Start building there too.
5. Water becomes scarce in the desert. Build water reservoirs and air wells early on.
6. Berry farms and berry muesli, which you prepare in the kitchen, are good nutritional solutions for desert crossings.
7. Use the expedition option quickly. There are important resources to collect in the remote locations.

I was at Gamescom 2022 with my good friend and Lets Play colleague and visited the Stray Fawn stand together. There we got tips and tricks about Unbo directly from the creators. If you're looking for more tips, you can also read the article from KlabauterMannLP read through.

The post The Wandering Village - Life on the back of a wondrous creature first appeared on SPIELECHECK | English.