Monday 02.12.2024
We cannot believe that SteamWorld Build has already been with us for a whole year! It feels like just yesterday that players dived into its charming steampunk world, ready to build, mine, and explore.
As we celebrate this incredible first anniversary, it’s the perfect time to reflect on all the exciting moments, from creative updates to the growing community of fans that have embraced the game.
SteamWorld Build has taken the beloved SteamWorld franchise in a fresh new direction.
The city-building and mine-mangement puzzler blends resource management, exploration, and a hint of mystery into a charming and engaging experience. Players are tasked with overseeing a mining town, digging deep into the earth to uncover much needed ancient technology, whilst also managing the happiness of their steambot residents above ground.
From the outset, the developers were eager to explore a new direction for the SteamWorld series. While SteamWorld Build pays homage to its predecessors with various “easter eggs” and nods to the lore, it also warmly welcomes newcomers.
You don’t need to be a seasoned SteamWorld fan to enjoy this unique city-building experience, but if you are, you might notice something that makes you feel nostalgic!
Another key goal for the team was to make SteamWorld Build accessible to a wide range of players.
While city-builders often involve complex resource management and threats, the team wanted to create a friendly introduction to the genre. They trusted the community to understand that, while staying true to the SteamWorld series, it aimed to create a relaxing experience for everyone.
A cosy game you can pick-up-and-play at any time!
One of the most delightful additions to the game has been its regular free updates. Throughout the year, the team released a range of free enhancements that brought fun, colour and whimsy to the world.
It all began with JingleBolts, a Christmas themed map, which we released close to launch. You can adorn your city with festive decorations, whilst your workers go about their business in the snow.
Players have also seen updates themed around Summer (Steam Wave) Pirates (Skull Valley) and Halloween (Steam Fright) to name a few – each bringing its own character and charm to the game.
In April, we launched SteamWorld Build Mechanized. In this update, players could uncover their trusty new side-kick, the Mighty Mech!
Once the guardian of the depths, this hulking automaton has two key features that can revolutionise your mining operation: Might Lifting and Punching Power. But don’t be fooled, it’s not just there to make your life easier. It also defends your miners from the terrifying Abomination that lurks in the darkness!
One of the standout features of SteamWorld Build, according to reviewers, is its blend of puzzle-solving and strategy. The game’s mechanics require players to think critically about how to expand and manage their town, all while balancing the demands of digging and exploration.
In a review by GameSpot, the game was praised for its “delightful puzzle mechanics” that challenge players to find creative solutions while still maintaining a laid-back pace. “Each new area introduces new challenges and encourages players to think outside the box,” the review said. “It’s the kind of game that makes you want to keep playing, whether you’re discovering a hidden cave or unlocking a new building.”
As with previous SteamWorld titles, the art style in SteamWorld Build has received widespread praise.
IGN described the game as “a visual delight,” with its charming art direction and lovingly crafted environments. “The attention to detail is impressive, and the world feels alive with character,” the review stated.
Whether it’s the quaint town you build or the mysterious underground passages you explore, the visuals in SteamWorld Build are undeniably one of its highlights.
Most importantly, we want to take this opportunity to say a huge thank you to the incredible community of players who have supported SteamWorld Build over the past year.
We have enjoyed witnessing the joyful response to the game and seeing how much adoration SteamWorld fans continue to have for the world we have built with love.
Your passion and feedback have been instrumental in shaping the game into what it is today and we couldn’t be more grateful.
The SteamWorld Team
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Monday 02.12.2024