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About Universe Sandbox
Universe Sandbox is a physics-based simulation game where you manipulate celestial bodies and natural forces on a cosmic scale. Developed by Giant Army and released in 2015, it lets you build stars, planets, and galaxies while watching real-time gravity and collisions shape your creations. The game runs on PC, Linux, and Mac, and offers VR support for engaging exploration. It’s a tool for learning and experimentation as much as a game, blending educational value with chaotic fun. No set objectives, just a universe to warp, crash, and observe.
Gameplay
The core loop revolves around creating or importing celestial objects and tweaking variables like mass, temperature, and materials. You’ll watch planets smash into stars, moons spiral into orbit, or ice worlds melt under heat. The interface allows you to zoom from planetary scales to close-up views, using VR or mouse controls to adjust parameters. Sessions vary from short experiments (e.g., simulating a black hole’s pull) to long-term projects tracking climate shifts. While there’s no story or progression, the satisfaction comes from observing physics in action. The lack of tutorials means trial and error dominates, but the payoff in chaotic beauty is high for those patient enough to learn the systems.
What Players Think
Critics gave it an 83/100 on Metacritic, praising its ambition and educational depth. On PlayPile, 82% of players rate it 4 stars or higher, though 18% cite a steep learning curve. The average playtime is 17 hours, with 32% of users completing over 70% of the game’s “achievements” (which are more like discovery milestones). Community moods lean curious (65%) and amazed (48%), though 30% describe it as “frustrating.” Review snippets highlight its “awe-inspiring simulations” but note it’s “not a game for everyone.”
PlayPile's Take
Universe Sandbox is a must-play for science buffs and tinkerers. It sells for $30, a fair price if you’re drawn to its sandbox approach. The 27 achievements (completion rate 32%) offer light structure, but the real appeal lies in self-directed discovery. Casual gamers might find it slow, but those who enjoy simulating cosmic chaos will spend hours. Its educational value and VR compatibility make it stand out, though the lack of clear goals limits replayability. Worth it if you crave creation on a galactic scale.
Game Modes
Single player
IGDB Rating
81.6
RAWG Rating
3.0
Videos
1Screenshots
5Achievements
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