Kerbal Space Program

Developer: Squad
Release: Apr 27th 2015
Platforms:
Indie
Simulation
Addictive
Creative
Educational
Buggy
Challenging
Kerbal Space Program Poster

" Realistic indie simulation with creative rocket design and steep learning curve "

Kerbal Space Program Review

Kerbal Space Program (KSP) is widely celebrated as a masterful space exploration simulator that combines complex physics, creativity, and humor. Players design and pilot spacecraft, exploring a beautifully crafted solar system with challenging orbital mechanics. The game offers a rewarding learning experience through trial and error, where even failures provide entertainment and education. Its sandbox and career modes provide depth, requiring resource management and mission planning. While the graphics are modest and show their age, the game’s charm and accessibility remain strong, especially with the support of a vibrant modding community that expands content and enhances visuals.

Despite a steep learning curve and some bugs, KSP’s gameplay is engaging and addictive, with players praising the sense of accomplishment from mastering rocket science. The game’s price is considered reasonable, especially during sales, though some find it a bit expensive without mods. Overall, KSP remains a beloved classic for space and science enthusiasts, offering endless hours of challenging and creative gameplay.

Highlights

Players praise KSP’s realistic physics and orbital mechanics that make space exploration authentic and educational. The freedom to design complex spacecraft fuels creativity, while the humor of the Kerbal characters adds charm. The game’s expansive solar system invites exploration, and the career mode adds strategic depth. The active modding community is a major highlight, providing new parts, improved graphics, and gameplay enhancements. Despite dated visuals, the game’s aesthetic is colorful and appealing, running well even on modest PCs. The combination of challenging gameplay and rewarding discoveries is frequently mentioned as a key strength.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include the steep learning curve which can be intimidating for newcomers, compounded by a lack of clear tutorials. Some players note that the graphics feel outdated and could benefit from official updates. Bugs and occasional technical issues are reported, though generally considered minor. The absence of modern features like autopilot or advanced onboard computing frustrates some players. Pricing is a concern for a few, especially since expansions feel mandatory and the base game can be pricey if purchased at full price. Additionally, the sequel’s poor reception has caused some disappointment among fans.

Pros

  • Realistic and educational physics simulation of rocket science and orbital mechanics.
  • Highly creative freedom in designing rockets, planes, and spacecraft.
  • Engaging and rewarding gameplay with a steep but satisfying learning curve.
  • Expansive solar system with diverse planets and moons to explore.
  • Humorous and charming Kerbal characters add personality to missions.
  • Robust career mode with resource management and mission objectives.
  • Strong and active modding community offering enhanced content and visuals.

Cons

  • Steep learning curve and lack of comprehensive in-game tutorials for beginners.
  • Graphics are dated and could benefit from official visual improvements.
  • Some bugs and technical issues, though mostly minor annoyances.
  • No onboard autopilot or advanced guidance systems, requiring manual control.
  • Pricing can be high, especially when factoring in necessary expansions.
  • The sequel’s failure has negatively impacted community expectations.
  • Progression slows significantly after early game components are unlocked.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

In Kerbal Space Program, take charge of the space program for the alien race known as the Kerbals. You have access to an array of parts to assemble fully-functional spacecraft that flies (or doesn’t) based on realistic aerodynamic and orbital physics.

Release Date Apr 27th 2015
Publisher Private Division
Developer Squad
Platforms

User Reviews

Overwhelmingly Positive (71,514)
96% Positive 4% Negative

Online Reviews

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Metacritic
88