Surviving Mars: Relaunched emerges as a distinctive remaster, though its classification may not be immediately apparent. Typically, remasters fall into two categories: those that enhance classic titles through technological advancements and those that seem to exploit nostalgia for profit. Surviving Mars firmly belongs to the former, yet its relatively recent original release might lead some to question its necessity.
Originally launched by Haemimont Games and Paradox Interactive in 2018, Surviving Mars garnered positive reviews, with one critic noting it was “a lot of hard work, but managing a burgeoning colony never stops being compelling,” ultimately earning an 80% rating. The game expanded through various DLCs until 2022, allowing players to enrich their Martian colonies with new features.
Despite its youth, the game’s relevance remains intact, especially as survival city builders have gained popularity since its initial release. The allure of colonizing Mars continues to resonate with audiences, making the experience feel as fresh as it did in 2018. While it originally launched on older consoles, it is now compatible with the latest PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
Haemimont’s motivations for this remaster are compelling. After stepping back from Surviving Mars in 2019, Abstraction Studios took over updates and DLCs, including the Below and Beyond expansion and the Martian Express pack, which was designed by modders. However, the quality of these additions waned, prompting Haemimont’s return to refine the game. They have made significant adjustments, such as enhancing the underground maps from Below and Beyond and improving the train system from Martian Express, addressing player feedback by reducing placement limitations and enabling more intricate train networks.
In essence, Haemimont has crafted the game it envisioned before its hiatus. The most anticipated changes are complemented by numerous quality-of-life improvements, enhanced lighting, and textures that elevate the game to contemporary standards. While the visual upgrades are noticeable, the most significant enhancements lie beneath the surface. Haemimont has developed a new engine that not only improves visuals but also enhances performance and expands development tools, including mod support. This transition paves the way for future DLC that won’t be constrained by the original game’s limitations.
Next year, players can look forward to new expansions, such as Feeding the Future, which will focus on food production, and Machine Utopia, which promises to introduce fully automated colonies. These forthcoming additions signal an exciting revitalization of the game, and while some may argue these features could have been integrated into the original, the relaunch provides a solid justification from both a business and technical perspective.
Haemimont has astutely included a new expansion, the Martian Assembly, from the outset, likely recognizing the need to entice previous players to invest again. This addition integrates seamlessly into the new version of the game, introducing the Earth Council, which allows players to pass laws that yield significant benefits, such as accelerating rocket launches or increasing residential capacity. While the rival system previously cluttered the gameplay, the Martian Assembly enhances collaboration, offering a more engaging experience.
As players navigate the complexities of governance, they can choose their preferred political system, from theocratic regimes to communal societies, and witness the ensuing political dynamics. This substantial addition enriches the gameplay, introducing new layers of strategy and role-playing opportunities.
Surviving Mars: Relaunched stands as the definitive version of the game, boasting enhanced aesthetics, refined mechanics, and solutions to longstanding issues. For newcomers or those who missed out on previous DLCs, this iteration offers a promising experience. However, for seasoned players, the value proposition may be less clear. Although the improvements are commendable, the upgrade fee—despite a discount for existing players—might not seem justifiable for those who have fully explored the original game. Yet, the ongoing journey with Haemimont’s future expansions may warrant the investment for those eager to continue their Martian adventure.