Sunless Skies
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About Sunless Skies
Sunless Skies is a narrative-driven adventure RPG from Failbetter Games, creators of Sunless Sea. Released on January 31, 2019, it blends Victorian Gothic aesthetics with cosmic horror, set in a universe where steam-powered trains explore dying stars. You play as a captain navigating a procedurally shifting galaxy, making choices that shape alliances, economies, and survival. The story centers on a decaying empire, a rebellious underclass, and celestial entities called Judgements. It’s a game about consequences, morality, and survival in a bleak, beautiful setting. Available on PC, Mac, and Linux, it’s a single-player experience that prioritizes storytelling over combat.
Gameplay
Sunless Skies runs on a turn-based system where you manage resources, crew, and ship mechanics while exploring a procedurally generated galaxy. Each decision, like hiring a mercenary or trading illegal cargo, has lasting consequences. Combat is rare but tense, relying on quick-time events and resource management. You spend most sessions managing your train’s systems, navigating political factions, and solving moral dilemmas. The game emphasizes exploration and dialogue, with branching paths that alter the world. Play sessions often mix strategic planning (e.g., rationing supplies) with sudden, surreal encounters (e.g., fighting a star-eating leviathan). The interface feels clunky but purposeful, mirroring the game’s focus on deliberate, thoughtful play.
What Players Think
The PlayPile community rates it 91/100, with 72% completing the main story. Average playtime is 28 hours, though 15% play over 60. Metacritic’s 87/100 reflects critical praise for its writing and worldbuilding. Community moods lean toward "curious" (42%) and "haunted" (28%), with 17% calling it "agonizing." One review notes, "The universe feels alive, but the UI is a mess." Achievements are 100% optional, with 12% of players earning all 64. Players often debate whether to support the Empress or rebels, with 68% choosing the latter. The game’s difficulty spikes in the second act, where 33% report getting stuck.
PlayPile's Take
Sunless Skies is worth playing for fans of deep, branching narratives and Victorian sci-fi. At $29.99, it’s a mid-tier indie price with 30 achievements. The game’s strength lies in its writing and worldbuilding, but its clunky mechanics and punishing resource management may frustrate some. If you enjoy moral ambiguity, procedural storytelling, and aren’t deterred by occasional UI hiccups, it’s a standout. Avoid if you prefer fast-paced combat or polished systems. The community’s 28-hour average playtime suggests a moderate commitment with high replayability.
Game Modes
Single player
IGDB Rating
83.8
RAWG Rating
3.7
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