Ostranauts
" Hardcore noir space-sim with deep ship customization but steep learning curve "
Ostranauts Review
Ostranauts is a detailed and immersive space salvaging and ship management sim that offers a unique blend of survival mechanics, ship customization, and exploration in a late-stage capitalist space setting. Players start with a debt-ridden ship and work to pay it off by salvaging wrecks, upgrading their vessel, and taking on various gigs. The game emphasizes realism and complexity, with an intentionally steep learning curve and a deliberately intricate user interface reminiscent of titles like Space Station 13 and Barotrauma.
While still in early access, the developer is highly active, frequently releasing patches and updates that improve gameplay and add content. Many players appreciate the depth and the rewarding gameplay loop once past the initial learning phase. However, the game is also noted for its bugs, performance issues, and a lack of comprehensive tutorials, which can frustrate new players. Despite these drawbacks, Ostranauts is praised for its originality, depth, and potential as a niche space sim experience.
Highlights
Players particularly praise the game's deep ship customization and salvage mechanics, which allow building and modifying ships from scratch. The immersive, realistic approach to space travel and survival, combined with a rich gameplay loop, is highly appreciated. The game's atmosphere and storytelling elements, including side quests like the mystery meat storyline, add significant flavor. The developer's active involvement and frequent updates also receive commendations, ensuring ongoing improvements and community engagement.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include a steep and sometimes overwhelming learning curve compounded by a poor tutorial system that leaves players to rely on external resources. Numerous bugs and glitches—such as NPCs dying unexpectedly, interaction issues, and drive malfunctions—can disrupt gameplay and cause frustration. The UI is considered cluttered and unintuitive, making navigation difficult. Additionally, some players find the game slow-paced initially and note that certain areas and mechanics feel underdeveloped or lack content. Performance issues and missing features like cloud saves have also been highlighted.
Pros
- • Deep and rewarding ship customization and salvage gameplay mechanics.
- • Immersive and realistic space survival and management systems.
- • Active developer support with frequent updates and patches.
- • Rich gameplay loop blending RPG elements and sandbox freedom.
- • Engaging side quests and storytelling add depth to the experience.
- • Unique interface combining first-person controls with top-down view.
- • High replayability due to open-ended goals and player freedom.
Cons
- • Steep learning curve with insufficient in-game tutorials.
- • Numerous bugs and glitches affecting NPCs, items, and travel.
- • Cluttered and unintuitive user interface complicates gameplay.
- • Performance issues and occasional game-breaking bugs reported.
- • Slow pacing at the start can deter some players.
- • Some game systems and areas feel underdeveloped currently.
- • Missing features like cloud saves despite ongoing development.
Rating Criteria
Screenshots
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Ostranauts released?
Ostranauts was released on September 10, 2020.
Who developed Ostranauts?
Ostranauts was developed by Blue Bottle Games.
Is Ostranauts available on Mac?
No, Ostranauts is not currently available on Mac according to our data.
Is Ostranauts available on Linux?
No, Ostranauts is not currently available on Linux according to our data.
Where can I buy Ostranauts?
You can buy Ostranauts on Steam.
Game Details
Ostranauts is a hardcore noir space-sim. Manage life aboard your ship, and beware the cost of every decision you make. Scavenge and explore the boneyard. Create, build, and customise your ship. Hire a crew to help but remember, nothing is more certain than death and taxes.