Sprocket
" Innovative tank design simulation with deep realism and creativity, but steep learning curve "
Sprocket Review
Sprocket is a unique and highly detailed tank design game that offers players an extensive sandbox experience with deep customization options. Players praise its creative freedom, realistic physics, and intricate design mechanics, allowing for both historically inspired and fantastical tank creations. The game's visuals are surprisingly good for an indie title, and the developer is commended for being active, transparent, and responsive to the community.
However, the game is still in Early Access, and recent major updates have introduced complexity that some players find overwhelming. Many have reported that these updates broke older vehicle designs and increased the learning curve significantly. The lack of in-game tutorials and workshop support adds to the difficulty for newcomers. Despite these issues, fans remain optimistic about the game's future, appreciating ongoing development and promising upcoming features.
Highlights
Players especially appreciate the game's creative tank-building mechanics, allowing for detailed internal and external customization.
The graphics and physics engine receive positive remarks for their quality and realism.
The community and developer interaction is another strong point, with regular updates and open communication praised.
Many enjoy the balance between realistic tank design and the ability to create absurd, imaginative vehicles.
The scenarios and combat, though basic, add enjoyable gameplay beyond just building.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the steep learning curve, especially after recent updates that drastically changed game mechanics.
Many players report that the new update broke their existing tank designs, causing frustration and loss of progress.
The lack of tutorials and workshop integration makes it hard for new players to get started or keep up with changes.
Some users find the new complexity unnecessary and feel it detracts from the fun sandbox experience.
Occasional bugs and UI/UX issues also reduce accessibility and enjoyment.
Pros
- • Extensive creative freedom to build historically accurate or fantastical tanks with detailed internals.
- • Realistic physics and damage modeling enhance the tank design experience.
- • Surprisingly good graphics for an indie Early Access game.
- • Active and transparent developer committed to regular updates and community engagement.
- • Balanced gameplay allowing both simple and complex designs.
- • Fun sandbox mode with scenarios and combat elements.
- • Strong community support and helpful player base.
Cons
- • Recent updates drastically increased complexity, alienating some players.
- • Major update broke many existing tank designs, causing frustration.
- • Steep learning curve worsened by lack of in-game tutorials.
- • No workshop integration limits sharing and ease of access to user creations.
- • UI and controls can be clunky and unintuitive post-update.
- • Some bugs and stability issues remain in Early Access.
- • Loss of older features and changes to mechanics confuse users.
Rating Criteria
Carefully balance mobility, firepower and armour in a dedicated tank designer. Then uncarefully put them to the test in a series of combat scenarios progressing through the ages of the tank. Here, your limit is what you can fit inside your hull and turret while still being able to move forwards.