Kenshi
Action
Indie
RPG
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Workshop
Includes level editor
Family Sharing

A free-roaming squad based RPG. Focusing on open-ended sandbox gameplay features rather than a linear story. Be a trader, a thief, a rebel, a warlord, an adventurer, a farmer, a slave, or just food for the cannibals. Train your men up from puny victims to master warriors.

Developers: Lo-Fi Games
Publishers: Lo-Fi Games
Release Date: Dec 6, 2018
Price (USD): $8.39
Current Players: 4.1k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Overwhelmingly Positive(95%)
open-world sandbox
deep lore
progression system
modding community
difficulty
start
pathfinding
learning curve
steep learning curve
performance issues
outdated graphics
cumbersome UI
The general sentiment among players is that Kenshi is a deeply immersive and rewarding open-world sandbox game that offers unparalleled freedom and a unique setting. However, it is also a challenging and at times frustrating experience with frequent bugs and learning curve. While the harsh world of Kenshi may not be for everyone, those who stick with it find it to be a highly fulfilling adventure with endless possibilities.

Positive Points

  • The game provides a massive open-world sandbox experience with almost endless freedom. Players can choose their own path, from becoming a trader, mercenary, to starting their own faction.
  • Kenshi offers deep lore and world-building that immerses players into a unique, post-apocalyptic setting with intricate faction dynamics and a vibrant, living world.
  • The game's progression system is rewarding, where players start as weak characters who must grow through overcoming various challenges, thus making achievements feel significant.
  • There's a strong and active modding community that enhances the game with countless mods, providing infinite replayability and customization.
  • Negative Points

  • The game has a steep learning curve and lack of direction, which can make it confusing and frustrating for new players.
  • It has a significant amount of bugs and performance issues, such as frequent crashes and poor pathfinding, which can detract from the experience.
  • Some players found the graphics outdated and the UI cumbersome, which affected the overall enjoyment of the game.
  • Mixed Points

  • The harsh difficulty level is both a point of frustration and a source of enjoyment, as players struggle initially but eventually find satisfaction as they progress.
  • Starting scenarios, such as becoming enslaved or dealing with constant threats, are polarizing; some find them immersive and challenging, while others find them discouraging.
  • Common Themes

  • Players frequently mention their journey from weakness to strength, often citing personal stories of survival, adversity, and eventual triumph.
  • The unique post-apocalyptic setting and diverse factions are highlighted as key elements that make the game memorable and engaging.
  • The need for patience and ingenuity is a common theme, as the game requires players to think critically and adapt to the world around them.
  • Updated 5/26/2026, 12:01:36 AM UTC