Besiege

Developer: Spiderling Studios
Release: Feb 18th 2020
Platforms:
Indie
Simulation
Creative
Addictive
Physics-based
Buggy
Frustrating Camera
Besiege Poster

" Innovative physics-based simulation with creative building mechanics but steep learning curve "

Besiege Review

Besiege is a physics-based sandbox construction game that captivates players with its intricate building mechanics and creative freedom. Players design siege engines and contraptions to complete various destructible objectives, blending engineering with playful destruction. The game boasts a well-supported campaign and an expansive sandbox mode enriched by a vibrant Steam Workshop community. Many reviewers praise its depth, creativity, and the rewarding experience of mastering complex mechanics.

However, Besiege has a steep learning curve and can feel overwhelming due to limited tutorials and a sometimes unintuitive interface. The camera system often frustrates players, and some report bugs and crashes, particularly on certain levels or platforms. Despite these issues, the game’s charm and continuous developer support keep players engaged. The addition of DLC, especially aquatic-themed content, is well-received, adding variety and value. Overall, Besiege is celebrated as a unique, addictive engineering playground, ideal for players who enjoy problem-solving and destruction in a sandbox environment.

Highlights

Players highly appreciate Besiege's complex physics-based building mechanics that encourage creativity and experimentation. The sandbox mode, complemented by extensive Steam Workshop content, offers nearly limitless possibilities for invention and destruction.

The campaign is also noted for being fun and well-crafted, providing a structured challenge alongside the open-ended gameplay. The graphics, while not the main focus, are described as nicely atmospheric and fitting the game's theme. Developer commitment and regular updates over several years have earned praise, showing a dedication to improving the game and supporting its community.

Criticisms

Common criticisms include a with insufficient in-game tutorials, which can discourage new players. The camera controls are frequently described as awkward and frustrating, detracting from the gameplay experience.

Several users report bugs and crashes, especially on specific levels or operating systems, impacting progression. Some players find the game clunky or janky in parts, and the multiplayer mode is viewed as underdeveloped or gimmicky. Additionally, the game’s presentation and interface can feel overwhelming due to the immediate availability of many complex building blocks without gradual introduction.

Pros

  • Physics-based building mechanics enable highly creative and complex contraptions.
  • Sandbox mode paired with Steam Workshop provides endless user-generated content.
  • Campaign offers fun, well-designed levels with destructible environments.
  • Developer support is consistent with regular updates and community engagement.
  • Aquatic-themed DLC expands gameplay with new mechanics and building options.
  • Graphics are atmospheric and visually pleasing without being distracting.
  • Destruction and physics simulation provide satisfying and realistic feedback.

Cons

  • Steep learning curve with limited tutorials frustrates new players.
  • Camera controls are often awkward and detract from gameplay experience.
  • Bugs and crashes reported, sometimes blocking progression on certain levels.
  • Multiplayer mode feels underdeveloped and lacks meaningful content.
  • Interface can be overwhelming due to many complex blocks available at once.
  • Some players find the building mechanics clunky or unintuitive.
  • Occasional freezing and control issues reported during construction phases.

Rating Criteria

Story
Difficulty
Graphics
Duration
Stability
Worth the Price
Capsule image

Besiege is a physics building game about constructing mechanical machines to annihilate armies, obliterate castles and overcome challenging obstacles. Conquer the campaign or skirmish with friends in Multiplayer!

Release Date Feb 18th 2020
Publisher Spiderling Studios
Developer Spiderling Studios
Platforms

User Reviews

Overwhelmingly Positive (22,109)
96% Positive 4% Negative