Spacebase Startopia

This game is a lot like the original from 2001. It is similar enough for me to feel mostly at home, but many systems got touched up on, so you can't just do what you did back then. The tractorbeam is very different and needs some getting used to, but after a short adjustment period, I think I actually might prefer the newer one. The aliens and structures got reworked as well, but if you are familiar with the old cadre you will recognise their function quickly. Variable structures now also come with predefined optional layouts and I think you can even save your own, to make building easier. Research/unlocking of structures is completely different and does need some getting used to from the original. You no longer unlock stuff via the lab but with a dedicated subsystem using "prestige" that you gain from aliens liking your station/services. You can still improve stuff via the lab though. Biodeck got streamlined, which i kinda liked. The fundeck got reworked too, and I absolutely hate it. Only structures in the central sector are powered by default, in other sectors you need a special structure that powers stuff in a certain (small) area. This feels clunky and just like a chore. Combat got completly reworked. You no longer use your employees to fight, but cheap security drones and expensive mechas. It's better than the original, but still only okay-ish. It feels kind of detached but at least you do no longer wreck your healthcare while fighting. The campaign was really nice up to the first combat-focused mission. After that point I always felt pressured. The story of the campaing was meh with a few interesting hooks and an unsatisfying ending. Granted, the original didn't have much of a story either but at least they didn't try to convince you otherwise. New VAL is a downgrade from the original. The old one was a sarcastic bastard but still likable, the new one not so much. Would give 3.5 stars if possible.

This looked to be a promising update to the original Startopia, and it just failed in many ways. Beautiful to look at, but has major problems with the game play. Way too easy to get through tech and build... just because a sandbox without restrictions really. The original made it must more of a process and journey, this because a build your own free-for-all.

The game tries copying the original, failing to capture the original's atmosphere and charm. It's not adding anything that would catch you and make you play for hours. Highly recommend you purchase the original and give this one a wide berth (see what I did there ;))

previous version seemed a bit better