Factorio
- August 13, 2020
- Wube Software LTD.
- 84h median play time
It’s not hard to lose hours to Factorio, and if you can forgiver the visuals, you’ll have a ball throwing yourself into your work.
Get on SteamIn Factorio , you build and manage factories while mining resources, automating production, and battling enemies. As your production grows, you'll research new technologies and construct sophisticated machinery to meet your needs. Multiplayer options let you collaborate with others, constructing massive factories and sharing responsibilities. Mods cater to various player preferences with tweaks, helper mods, and even complete game overhauls. Conflicts with the native inhabitants may arise due to your exploitations, requiring defensive measures.
Mac OS
Nintendo Switch
PC
Windows
Cloud
Linux
NVIDIA GeForce NOW
Tablet
Reviews
- gameplay5,337 mentions
- 34 % positive mentions
- 64 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
Factorio's gameplay is widely praised for its deep and engaging mechanics, which revolve around resource management, automation, and factory building. Players appreciate the addictive gameplay loop that encourages continuous optimization and expansion, often leading to hundreds or even thousands of hours of playtime. The game is noted for its smooth progression, intuitive controls, and extensive modding community, which further enhances replayability and introduces new challenges and mechanics.
“The new planets bring that burst of addiction starting a new world gives while allowing you to learn new mechanics and beat new challenges while evolving the world you have been working on as a whole.”
“The gameplay loop is so tight and engrossing that you will never find yourself with nothing to do, and creating solutions to problems using the tools provided feels both organic and creative.”
“The core gameplay loop involves extracting resources, manufacturing components, automating production lines, and optimizing efficiency—all while defending against increasingly aggressive alien creatures.”
“The gameplay feels like a chore.”
“The core gameplay loop never gets old, you will absolutely look at your clock, do some stuff, and realize 5 hours have passed.”
“The game has a vast array of mods that add new features, challenges, and gameplay mechanics, ensuring that there is always something new and exciting to discover.”
- graphics2,541 mentions
- 28 % positive mentions
- 66 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The graphics of Factorio have received mixed feedback from players, with many noting that while the visuals are simple and reminiscent of retro games, they effectively serve the gameplay. The pixelated art style, often compared to classic titles like Starcraft, is appreciated for its clarity and functionality, allowing players to manage complex factory layouts without distraction. Although some players initially find the graphics off-putting, they often grow to appreciate the aesthetic as they become immersed in the game's intricate mechanics and automation challenges.
“The simple but beautiful graphics are masterfully crafted and optimized so well.”
“The graphics are beautiful, gameplay is refined, and quality of life features never make it feel like work.”
“The graphics are clean, and the soothing soundtrack makes hours fly by.”
“The graphics are obviously complete s***, and it's impossible to ignore this in the long run.”
“The graphics are very well done, but this will scratch that itch where another playthrough of the other games might not.”
“The graphics will be a turn off for a lot of newcomers, but if you've played other factory games deep into the late game, you'll appreciate the 2D grid design.”
- optimization1,876 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 65 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
Factorio is widely praised for its exceptional optimization, allowing players to build massive factories without experiencing significant performance issues, even on low-end hardware. The developers have demonstrated a strong commitment to continuous improvement, regularly releasing updates that enhance performance and fix bugs, resulting in a stable and polished gaming experience. Players appreciate the game's ability to handle complex logistics and automation challenges while maintaining smooth gameplay, making it a standout title in the optimization genre.
“Factorio is a game about complex problem solving, scaling, automation, and optimization.”
“The developers have put a heavy emphasis on optimization of the game's absolute basic functions, both making a game that can run on a toaster while also making the game capable of scaling factory size to absolutely obscene levels on a powerful machine.”
“The game is extremely optimized, even in the late game when you’re dealing with products in the millions.”
“Game is not optimized for multiplayer; be warned everyone in the group has a beast of a PC and good internet, and there are massive lags the moment we split up, even on the same planet.”
“The optimization of the game engine also allows for smooth gameplay even as factories reach mind-boggling levels of complexity.”
- replayability1,529 mentions
- 53 % positive mentions
- 46 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
Factorio is widely praised for its exceptional replayability, with many players noting that the game offers virtually infinite replay value due to its complex mechanics, procedural map generation, and extensive modding community. The ability to customize gameplay settings and the continuous challenge of optimizing factory designs keep players engaged long after their initial playthrough. While some users mention that the base game can feel repetitive after completing it, the vast array of mods available significantly enhances the replay experience, making it a must-play for fans of strategy and simulation games.
“Factorio offers immense replayability, allowing players to continuously refine and expand their factory designs, making each playthrough feel fresh and exciting.”
“The modding community adds an almost infinite layer of replayability, allowing players to tailor their experience to their specific preferences and explore countless new strategies.”
“With its boundless replayability, cooperative gameplay, and minimalist aesthetics that enhance immersion, Factorio stands as a testament to the potential of indie game development.”
“The replayability is endless and the game really encourages well thought-out designs.”
“The sheer ability to make the most complicated setup work and do it differently each time adds so much replayability to this game, not to mention the large selection of mods to add a whole new way to play.”
“The game has unlimited hours of replayability as it is and only gets better with the constant updates; which, never dreadfully impact your game.”
- story1,210 mentions
- 9 % positive mentions
- 82 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The story in Factorio is minimal and primarily serves as a backdrop for gameplay, revolving around the player's character who crash-lands on an alien planet and must build a rocket to escape. Many players express disappointment over the lack of a deeper narrative or structured campaigns, with some suggesting that the game would benefit from additional story-driven missions. Overall, while the gameplay mechanics are highly praised, the story is often seen as secondary or even non-essential to the experience.
“The story of Factorio is simple: you crash-landed on a planet and must mine materials to build what will ultimately be a rocket ship to leave the planet.”
“Factorio is not just a game; it's a journey into the fascinating world of automation, where every conveyor belt and assembly machine tells a story of ingenuity and progress.”
“The campaign has large and interesting missions that help you learn the game while following a bit of a story.”
“The story is very thin and there's no character development at all.”
“Their is no story to the game, it's not that kind of game.”
“The only thing missing in my opinion is a longer campaign with a little more emphasis on storytelling, but that's not the focus anyway.”
- grinding829 mentions
- 2 % positive mentions
- 14 % neutral mentions
- 84 % negative mentions
The grinding aspect of the game is a significant point of contention among players, with many noting that it can be extremely time-consuming and tedious, especially in the mid to late game. While some players find the grinding enjoyable and rewarding, particularly when it leads to automation and efficiency, others feel it becomes monotonous and overwhelming, often requiring a substantial time investment to progress. Overall, the game is best suited for those who appreciate intricate logistics and factory management, as it demands a commitment that can feel like a second job.
“Also, there is no grinding in this game, as each challenge is new and interesting.”
“No grinding, just steadily automating all sorts of tasks so you can deal with the bigger and bigger picture.”
“This game isn't hard to learn, there is lots to do, it is fun hours on end without getting bored and isn't grindy.”
“Factorio is a very grindy game; you can spend 3 hours trying to unlock a specific thing believing it'll speed the game up only to spend another 3 hours doing like 3 things.”
“The whole 'turn this thing into something that turns into something and then turns into something else' gets extremely grindy.”
“But in Factorio, doing basic things feels like grinding my brain on sandpaper.”
- music727 mentions
- 42 % positive mentions
- 56 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The music in Factorio has received widespread acclaim for its atmospheric and immersive qualities, effectively complementing the game's industrial theme and enhancing the overall experience. Many players appreciate the soundtrack's ability to create a calming backdrop for long gaming sessions, although some note that it can become repetitive over time. Overall, the soundtrack is considered a significant aspect of the game, with many recommending it as a worthy purchase alongside the game itself.
“The soundtrack is amazing, the gameplay is incredible.”
“The music greatly accompanies the whole gaming experience and the game pushes you to improve your designs.”
“The soundtrack complements the game greatly, and while it isn't as flashy as some others, it is still a great addition to this game.”
“The ambient music is decent but gets repetitive after a few minutes; I prefer to turn it off and have some other background sounds running that don't sound as repetitive.”
“The soundtrack wasn't my favorite, and tended to feel more like background music.”
“I could not really stand to listen to the music past the 20-hour mark, just because it had some odd tracks.”
- stability301 mentions
- 38 % positive mentions
- 2 % neutral mentions
- 60 % negative mentions
The game is widely praised for its exceptional stability, with many users reporting a virtually bug-free experience across various platforms, including older hardware. Players appreciate the developers' commitment to regular updates and quick bug fixes, resulting in smooth gameplay without significant glitches or crashes. Overall, it is considered one of the most polished and well-optimized games available, even in early access.
“Virtually bug free, stable and obsessively optimized.”
“The sheer level of polish, bug free gameplay, and things just work without crashing for 10+ hours at a time should be the gaming gold standard.”
“The developers' attention to every detail has managed to create an almost completely bug free game.”
“Glitches that could hide a whole factory in their code, enemy AI that sometimes forgets the meaning of 'attack,' and a learning curve steeper than a rollercoaster built on Mount Everest.”
“Half the time the robot hands stop working even for no reason even though they have fuel and what else needed, buggy game.”
“The only downside is that multiplayer is kind of buggy; you have to download some VPN program to make it work, had to try for 1 hour before we could play.”
- humor282 mentions
- 98 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is frequently described as absurdist and quirky, with players enjoying the combination of complex mechanics and comedic elements that lead to hilarious moments, especially in multiplayer settings. Many reviews highlight the game's ability to generate laughter through its unique scenarios, such as accidental mishaps with trains or the absurdity of factory automation, while also poking fun at the game's own mechanics and the player's obsessive engagement. Overall, the humor is a significant draw, making the experience both entertaining and addictive.
“Say goodbye to your sleep because this gem will tickle your funny bone for the next 50-1000 hours.”
“The game brilliantly combines humor with its intricate mechanics, keeping you entertained as you delve deeper into its intricacies.”
“Quirky pop culture references, sly puns, and subtle jabs at your own sanity are cleverly woven into the game, leaving you chuckling maniacally as your factory spirals into a frenzy of mayhem and automation.”
“Because it's not funny.”
“Pausing every 5 minutes to look up some guide on how to do a pixel-perfect alignment to make some steam engine work (99% of the time it does not and the game tells you nothing) it's not funny...”
“I have wasted so many hours in this game; it is not funny.”
- atmosphere178 mentions
- 49 % positive mentions
- 48 % neutral mentions
- 3 % negative mentions
The atmosphere of the game is widely praised for its immersive and captivating qualities, enhanced by a well-crafted soundtrack and detailed art direction. Players appreciate the industrial landscape, which reflects the consequences of their actions, such as pollution and environmental degradation, creating a sense of moral complexity. Overall, the combination of sound design, visual style, and thematic depth contributes to a unique and engaging experience that keeps players invested in their factory-building journey.
“Incredible atmosphere, art direction, and soundtrack.”
“The game's world-building and atmosphere are immersive, drawing me into its industrial landscape.”
“The ambient sounds and music further enhance the immersive atmosphere, creating an engaging environment where every decision matters.”
“The atmosphere of the game is so bleak thanks to the near featureless landscape, cacophonous machinery, unearthly fauna, and desolate soundtrack.”
“The only thing that prevents me from playing this game time to time is the depressive atmosphere of it.”
“The atmosphere of this game is lonely and lets you feel like the evil guy while still praising you in showing your big factories moving all the time and thousands of resources moving on the belt.”
- emotional106 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional aspect of the game is described as a profound rollercoaster, eliciting a wide range of feelings from joy and accomplishment to frustration and sadness. Players report moments of deep attachment to their creations, often experiencing tears of joy upon achieving significant milestones, while others note the game's ability to evoke stress and anxiety akin to real-life pressures. Overall, the game fosters a unique emotional connection, blending wholesome experiences with challenging gameplay that resonates deeply with its community.
“This game made me cry in a good way.”
“A game like Factorio will send you on an emotional rollercoaster with heartwarming happiness and severe anguish.”
“This game has taken me on an emotional rollercoaster that rivals any real-life rollercoaster, complete with moments of exhilarating joy and heart-wrenching frustration.”
- monetization93 mentions
- 12 % positive mentions
- 53 % neutral mentions
- 35 % negative mentions
The monetization model of the game is highly praised, with users emphasizing the absence of microtransactions, DLCs, and any form of exploitative practices. Players appreciate the straightforward one-time purchase price, which offers extensive gameplay without additional costs, making it a refreshing alternative in a market often filled with cash grabs and pay-to-win mechanics. Overall, the developers are commended for their commitment to delivering a complete product without the pitfalls of modern monetization strategies.
“The base game provides countless hours of entertainment, with no additional DLCs or microtransactions required.”
“What you see is what you pay, just like the games of old, no nonsense, no DLC, no microtransactions, no loot boxes, no subscriptions, no exclusive edition... also, the price is really low for the quality and content and the many hours of playtime I have spent with this game.”
“The game is consistently priced (no sales ever), as well as having no expansion packs, DLC, microtransactions, in-app purchases or other related things making it an absolute paragon of non-exploitative sales practice.”
“One of my favorite games ruined by greedy monetization from devs who explicitly said they would never do something like that.”
“Don't buy this game if you hate enjoying games and dislike the thought of being treated as an actual human being rather than just a cash grab.”
“It really seems like these developers have their priorities straight and aren't just out to rob gamers blind with DLC cash grabs and half-finished games.”
- character development3 mentions
- 33 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 67 % negative mentions
Reviews indicate a significant lack of character development, with many users noting that the story feels thin and fails to provide depth or immersion. Even those who typically appreciate character growth find little to engage with in this aspect.
“I'd go out on a limb and say that even if you're more into character development, there's a lot for you here.”
“The story is very thin and there's no character development at all.”
“There isn't a lot of immersion, or lore, or character development.”
