SteamWorld Build Review: A Mechanical Symphony in the Desert
Alright, folks, I booted up "SteamWorld Build" and was immediately smacked in the face with a steampunk wasteland vibe that's as charming as it is desolate. It's like stepping into a robot's daydream, complete with an abandoned railway station and a mine shaft that screams adventure.
City Building: Not Just for Humans Anymore
Building up my steambot city was like playing chess with nuts and bolts. The game makes you the grand architect of a mechanical metropolis where every building, every resource matters. And trust me, seeing my city evolve from a few shabby huts that remind me of my first apartment to a buzzing hub was as satisfying as downing a cold drink on a hot day.
Graphics: A Visual Feast for Steampunk Lovers
The moment I fired up "SteamWorld Build," the graphics hit me like a ton of very loving bricks (alright that might be a bit of a weird quote, but, alas). The game is a delicious visual feast, especially if you're into the steampunk aesthetic. The attention to detail in each building, the animations of the bustling streets with various robot types – it’s like watching a lively mechanical ballet. From the glowing neon signs to the rustic charm of the saloons, every visual element adds personality to this robotic wonderland.
Diving Deep: A Tale of Two Cities
This game isn't just about what's above ground. Oh no, the underground mining part? That's where the real party is! Directing my army of pickaxe-wielding robots to unearth treasures was a whole new level of fun. It's like managing two cities simultaneously - one in the sun and one in the shadows.
Clear Goals: A Guiding Hand
What sets "SteamWorld Build" apart is its clear-cut objectives. You're not just aimlessly building; there's a method to the madness. From upgrading workers to excavating machine parts, there's always a carrot dangling in front of you, keeping things spicy.
Difficulty: As You Like It
Whether you're a masochist craving a challenge or just in for a chill time building your empire, "SteamWorld Build" has got you covered. The adjustable difficulty means you can tailor the experience to your mood. Want to sweat? Crank it up! Want to relax? Keep it easy.
The Nitty-Gritty: A Few Stumbles in the Desert
Now, let's talk about the elephant in the room. The game's a tad too familiar. The maps, while visually distinct, boil down to the same basic gameplay loop. And the underground layer, while adding variety, follows a similar pattern across playthroughs. It's like eating your favorite pizza every day - great at first, but eventually, you'll want something else.
Final Thoughts: A Mechanical Masterpiece with Room to Grow
"SteamWorld Build" is a delightful addition to the city-building genre. It's got charm, challenge, and robots - what's not to love? While it may not reinvent the wheel, it spins it in a fascinating new direction.
Final Score: 8/10 A solid game that's more than just the sum of its parts. Whether you're a city-building veteran or a newbie, "SteamWorld Build" is worth a shot. Just be prepared for a bit of déjà vu if you're planning multiple playthroughs.
We at NLM received a key for the game for free; however, this hasn’t affected our opinion in any way.