Thrive
" Realistic evolution simulation with deep organism editing but slow development and bugs "
Thrive Review
Thrive is a scientifically-inspired evolutionary simulation game that serves as a spiritual successor to Spore, focusing on realism and complexity in gameplay. Players appreciate the depth of the cell stage, praising the high level of freedom in how organisms evolve and interact with dynamic environments. The development team is highly dedicated, frequently updating the game and steadily expanding its content, which maintains player interest despite it being in early access for nearly a decade.
While the game offers a rich and nuanced experience in its current state, it remains incomplete with only one of nine planned phases finished. Players express excitement for future updates, especially the expansion into multicellular life stages. However, some users report technical issues such as crashes related to shaders and occasional frustrating gameplay mechanics. Overall, the game is seen as a promising and addictive title for fans of evolutionary simulations, with a strong scientific foundation and ongoing development.
Highlights
Players highly praise Thrive's detailed and realistic cell stage, describing it as the best microcellular simulation currently available. The game's complex yet accessible gameplay mechanics allow for diverse evolutionary paths and dynamic environmental interactions. The graphics, while not flashy, effectively support the scientific accuracy and immersive experience. Frequent updates by a passionate development team keep the game fresh and engaging. Many users find the game's educational aspect rewarding, deepening their understanding of biological processes. The open-ended progression and freedom in evolution are standout features that differentiate it from similar titles.
Criticisms
Common criticisms focus on the game's slow development pace and incomplete state, with only one phase fully realized after several years. Some players find the later stages unbalanced and the overall progression limited at this point. Technical issues such as crashes related to graphics shaders and occasional bugs hinder the experience for certain users. Additionally, a few players report frustrating gameplay mechanics, including environmental adaptation inconsistencies and control difficulties. The game's current lack of content beyond the cell stage leaves some feeling it is not yet fully enjoyable or polished.
Pros
- • Highly realistic and scientifically accurate evolutionary gameplay mechanics.
- • Deep freedom in evolving organisms and choosing evolutionary paths.
- • Dynamic environmental events affecting gameplay each playthrough.
- • Strong educational value explaining biological processes clearly.
- • Dedicated developers frequently releasing meaningful updates.
- • Engaging and addictive microcellular simulation experience.
- • Graphics effectively support the scientific and immersive theme.
Cons
- • Slow development with only one of nine phases completed.
- • Technical issues including crashes related to corrupted shaders.
- • Some unbalanced gameplay elements especially in later stages.
- • Frustrating control mechanics and occasional gameplay inconsistencies.
- • Limited content currently, lacking full game experience.
- • Progression can feel restricted and repetitive at times.
- • Long wait times between updates for some players.
Rating Criteria
Screenshots
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Thrive released?
Thrive was released on November 26, 2021.
Who developed Thrive?
Thrive was developed by Revolutionary Games Studio.
Is Thrive available on Mac?
Yes, Thrive is available on Mac.
Is Thrive available on Linux?
Yes, Thrive is available on Linux.
Where can I buy Thrive?
You can buy Thrive on Steam.
Game Details
An evolution simulation game. Take control of your species in the environment and edit your species as a whole. Compete with other evolving species for resources on an alien planet.