Space Engineers
Action
Indie
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Multi-player
PvP
Online PvP
Co-op
Steam Achievements
Steam Workshop
Partial Controller Support
Steam Cloud
Includes level editor
Family Sharing

Space Engineers is a sandbox game about engineering, construction, exploration and survival in space and on planets. Players build space ships, space stations, planetary outposts of various sizes and uses, pilot ships and travel through space to explore planets and gather resources to survive.

Developers: Keen Software House
Publishers: Keen Software House
Release Date: Feb 28, 2019
Price (USD): $4.99
Current Players: 10k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(89%)
creative freedom
physics simulation
sandbox experience
modding support
freedom of gameplay
survival mode
learning curve
open-endedness
DLC practices
steep learning curve
unintuitive UI
performance issues
lack of tutorials
The general sentiment toward the game is positive, especially among those who enjoy sandbox and construction games. Players praise the creative freedom and physics simulation, but many are critical of the DLC practices and unintuitive UI. The steep learning curve is highlighted—while some appreciate the depth, others find it a barrier to entry. Modding is seen as a major source of continued enjoyment, and the active community is noted as a significant asset.

Positive Points

  • Many players enjoy the game's creativity and building system which allows for significant autonomy in constructing ships and bases.
  • The game is praised for its physics and the detailed simulation of engineering challenges.
  • It offers a strong sandbox experience that lets players explore and express their creativity.
  • The game includes a significant amount of modding support, which extends its longevity and depth.
  • Players appreciate the freedom of gameplay that doesn't force a particular playstyle.
  • Negative Points

  • There are criticisms about the excessive amount of DLCs and their cost, which some players feel is a cash grab.
  • The game is often described as having a steep learning curve, with many players finding it challenging to understand initially.
  • Several reviews mention issues with the UI, which is described as unintuitive and outdated.
  • Some players experience technical issues, such as crashes and performance problems, particularly in multiplayer mode.
  • The lack of comprehensive in-game tutorials makes it difficult for new players to get started without external help.
  • Mixed Points

  • While many players appreciate the game's open-endedness and lack of direction, others feel this contributes to a lack of engagement and purpose.
  • The survival mode is seen as both a challenging and frustrating aspect of the game—some enjoy the challenge, while others find it tedious.
  • Mod support greatly enhances the game for many, though some feel it is essential rather than a bonus.
  • Common Themes

  • The need for creativity and engineering problem-solving is a recurrent theme, appealing to a niche audience.
  • Players consistently mention the game's capacity for enabling grand projects and intricate design, often calling it 'Minecraft in space'.
  • Frustration with the game's learning curve and UI is a recurring theme.
  • The community plays a vital role in supporting the game through mods and tutorials.
  • Updated 8/31/2025, 12:01:33 AM UTC