Kerbal Space Program

84%
Game Brain Score Based on 69,159 reviews
  • gameplay
  • story
  • humor
Kerbal Space Program Game Cover
A perfect blend of science and slapstick, and a robust and compelling sandbox of possibility. Simply outstanding.
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Kerbal Space Program is a physics-based space simulation game where players build and fly their own space vehicles. Launch satellites, build space stations, and explore other planets in a detailed and realistic space flight environment. With a variety of parts and tools, the possibilities for space exploration are endless.

  • Mac OS
  • Nintendo Switch
  • PC
  • Play​station 4
  • Play​station 5
  • Windows
  • Xbox One
  • Xbox Series X|S
  • Cloud
  • Linux
  • NVIDIA GeForce NOW
  • Play​Station
  • Wii
  • Wii U
  • Xbox
Genres & TagsPlay Modes

Reviews

84%
Audience ScoreBased on 69,159 reviews
gameplay963 positive mentions
stability435 negative mentions
  • gameplay3,885 mentions

    The gameplay of Kerbal Space Program (KSP) is widely praised for its engaging and educational nature, allowing players to learn about orbital mechanics and rocket science through hands-on experience. While the game features a steep learning curve, especially for newcomers unfamiliar with physics, it offers a rewarding sandbox environment where creativity and experimentation are encouraged. Players can build and launch their own spacecraft, navigate complex orbital maneuvers, and enjoy a vast array of mods that enhance gameplay, making KSP a unique blend of fun and education in space exploration.

    • “This game literally teaches you physics and orbital mechanics while enjoying the flight of your very own rocket that you can build.”
    • “Great game - orbital mechanics take some time to get used to as well as docking, but once you have it understood, it is great fun.”
    • “If you have the patience to learn a bit about orbital mechanics, then this game combined with the massive number of mods available will give you hundreds if not thousands of hours of playtime.”
    • “This game not only was a scam when it released in 2023, but still a year later in 2024, almost going on 2025, where they not only haven't added a single thing to the game, they actually removed things from the game such as lerx. When I spent $20 for this, I expected new gameplay elements to be added, not old ones to be removed. Also, you can't properly bind your yaw axis on your keyboard and the game has no support for HOTAS setups because it lacks axis binding.”
    • “The game is very, very complicated, but the training provided in the game does not even cover half of the basic game mechanics.”
    • “The gameplay modes all suck.”
  • story3,283 mentions

    The "story" aspect of Kerbal Space Program (KSP) is largely non-existent, as the game primarily focuses on sandbox-style gameplay where players create their own missions and objectives. While there is a career mode that introduces contracts and missions to earn funds and science, many players find these missions repetitive and lacking in narrative depth. The real enjoyment comes from the creative freedom to design rockets, plan complex missions, and experience the satisfaction of successfully completing self-directed challenges, often leading to humorous and chaotic scenarios involving the game's lovable kerbals.

    • “The sheer joy of planning and executing missions, coupled with the unpredictable nature of space travel, ensures that boredom remains an alien concept in this game.”
    • “The feeling of discovery and seeing a mission through is very satisfying.”
    • “Completing a major mission (made by yourself) can be extremely satisfying, and losing a kerbal can be devastating.”
    • “It is very easy to come up with a plot for such a game, but there is no plot at all.”
    • “The game does a terrible job explaining missions to you.”
    • “The missions are sometimes game-generated--save bobkin kerman from low kerbin orbit--or a personal challenge, such as building a massive re-useable interplanetary craft and landing vehicle and sending it on a mission to every moon around jool.”
  • humor1,348 mentions

    The humor in "Kerbal Space Program" is a standout feature, characterized by its slapstick comedy and whimsical charm. Players find joy in the hilarious failures of their rocket designs, often resulting in catastrophic explosions and the comical antics of the game's lovable green characters, the Kerbals. The game's clever writing and playful physics create a lighthearted atmosphere, making even the most frustrating moments entertaining and enjoyable.

    • “Hilarious game, never ceases to get a laugh when you screw stuff up just enough you don't even make it off the ground.”
    • “The launch "anomalies" are just as funny as any video from the early space programs.”
    • “It's really funny when the kerbals blow up and die a horrible death.”
    • “I have put so many hours into this game, it's not funny.”
    • “You may eliminate everything that makes this mode not funny at all, and still not have the ability to load your saves.”
  • graphics1,257 mentions

    The graphics of Kerbal Space Program (KSP) have received mixed reviews, with many players noting that while the visuals are somewhat dated and simplistic, they are functional and charming in their own right. The game is often praised for its engaging gameplay and realistic physics, which overshadow the graphical limitations. Additionally, a robust modding community offers numerous enhancements that can significantly improve the game's visuals, making it visually appealing even on lower-end systems. Overall, while the stock graphics may not impress, the potential for improvement through mods and the game's unique aesthetic contribute to its enduring appeal.

    • “The graphics are absolutely superb, the sounds are wonderful, the scale is mesmerizing.”
    • “The graphics, whilst not the most ultra-realistic, are simply beautiful; the character & styling is remarkable and I've caught myself just sitting in orbit of some planets watching eclipses and sunrises.”
    • “With the right mods added, this game shines graphically.”
    • “The graphics are pretty bad, music is okay, tutorials are absolutely rage-inducing, probably because they're outdated by the game's own updated physics... but also an unforgettable experience for anyone who likes to build spaceships, wants to learn some real engineering or astrophysics without the complicated math, if you've ever wanted to run your own space program, or of course there's a sandbox mode with all the parts unlocked if you just want to blow shit up for hours.”
    • “The graphics of the game (while simple) can still deliver some really stunning visuals.”
    • “The graphics are somewhat cartoony and the whole idea of 'kerbodyne' parts and such have lots of puns.”
  • atmosphere740 mentions

    The atmosphere in Kerbal Space Program is a blend of humor and challenge, providing players with a realistic yet playful simulation of space and atmospheric flight. Users appreciate the intricate physics that govern rocket launches and re-entries, often leading to spectacular failures and explosive outcomes, which contribute to the game's charm. The atmosphere is further enhanced by a vibrant community and modding support, allowing for diverse experiences ranging from casual exploration to complex engineering challenges.

    • “The atmosphere (no pun intended) is amazing.”
    • “This is one of the most inspiring games I have ever played, it maintains a really light atmosphere (space pun intended!) while teaching a surprising amount about space, physics, and flying rockets.”
    • “The game overall has not only improved, but expanded its depth and immersion into the difficult nature of propelling small green people into orbit at 14g's, screaming through the atmosphere at 500m/s and occasionally accidentally sending them back into the atmosphere in a glorious fireball of science.”
    • “The game is hard to learn, the learning curve is steep because although the build system is seemingly simple and the planets are small enough to be friendly (smaller atmospheres, slower orbital speeds), the aerodynamic model is incredibly intricate and the physics engine scarcely pulls its punches.”
    • “You can't fast forward the game if you are accelerating in orbit, and if you try fast forwarding (only up to x4 speed) in atmosphere, you might spontaneously destroy the rocket or aircraft.”
    • “I can't express the tremendous guilt I have due to all the kerbals I've left stranded in LKO or burned up in the atmosphere because I messed up the staging.”
  • stability463 mentions

    The stability of the game is frequently described as "buggy," with many users reporting various glitches that can disrupt gameplay, particularly during complex tasks like building rockets or launching missions. While some players find the bugs add a humorous charm to the experience, others express frustration over game-breaking issues, especially with larger crafts. Overall, despite its stability issues, the game remains enjoyable and is often recommended over its sequel, which is perceived as even more unstable.

    • “The game has pretty bad graphics; however, it makes up for it with no glitches or lag.”
    • “This game is very enjoyable, functions great, no glitches, and surprisingly educational.”
    • “It may be early access at the moment, and new things are being added, but in its current form, it's pretty much bug free and plays flawlessly.”
    • “Game is buggy, it's unplayable... such a shame.”
    • “Eternally frustrating, endlessly buggy, proverbially rage-inducing.”
    • “The game is full of bugs and annoying glitches; it gets really frustrating when you spend hours playing with your spaceship or aircraft only to be bogged down by the bugs in the game.”
  • replayability341 mentions

    Kerbal Space Program (KSP) is widely praised for its exceptional replayability, with many users highlighting its near-infinite potential for creativity and exploration. The game's extensive modding community further enhances this aspect, allowing players to continually discover new content and challenges. Overall, KSP offers a rich and engaging experience that can keep players entertained for hundreds, if not thousands, of hours.

    • “This game is set up to be whatever you want it to be, and the replay value is endless.”
    • “The game has a lot of content and replay value.”
    • “Infinite replayability and a whole lot of fun.”
    • “As for replay value, I'm not sure how replayable it is.”
    • “Replay value on career mode is a bit short, and leaves you wanting more... this game has great mods for it currently that stay up to date with the game's patches so far.”
    • “I just wish there was more replayability.”
  • optimization299 mentions

    The optimization of the game has received mixed feedback from users. While many players appreciate its ability to run smoothly on lower-end systems and commend the modding community for enhancing performance, others report significant performance issues, particularly with larger crafts and extensive modifications, leading to lag and instability. Overall, while there are improvements noted in recent updates, the game still requires further optimization to fully address these performance concerns.

    • “Very fun to play, I always enjoy tweaking and optimizing my aircraft to get the best performance out of them.”
    • “KSP 1 has much better performance, and if you want to make it look better, just use mods.”
    • “The game has always been solid from a performance aspect; the developers have always been very involved and continue to do so, and more importantly, the game is non-stop fun.”
    • “Keep in mind though that some mods, especially big part packs or graphics overhauls, do incur quite a hefty performance hit on lower-end machines, and extensive modifications will greatly increase load times and can make the game a tad unstable.”
    • “The biggest problem with the game is the poor optimization of certain aspects like time warps and the high quantity of objects in space.”
    • “The only downside to Kerbal is that it is terribly unoptimized and even high-end computers struggle to keep up with the inefficiency of design.”
  • grinding264 mentions

    The grinding aspect of the game is frequently described as tedious and time-consuming, with many players feeling that it requires an excessive commitment to progress, particularly in career mode. While some enjoy the challenge and find it rewarding, others express frustration with repetitive tasks and the steep learning curve, suggesting that a more casual sandbox mode may be preferable for those looking to avoid grinding. Overall, players agree that significant time investment is necessary to fully experience the game's potential.

    • “Unlike some other games with a lot of hours behind them, this one isn't grindy; this is 600+ hours of me figuring stuff out and enjoying the learning process.”
    • “Fun, something many new games lack; no tedious grind. Yes, the distances between worlds are huge, but with the time warp function, hours can pass in minutes or seconds.”
    • “However, the challenge of planning the route, the right lander, and the right spaceship make the game much longer than you might expect, but not tediously; it makes the game feel much more grand.”
    • “Repetitive tasks: grinding resources and completing contracts can feel monotonous after a while.”
    • “Playing with rockets that go boom most of the time trying to go further each time you installed the game and losing interest when you just can't reach that planet or moon you have been grinding for the past weeks.”
    • “Career mode can be tedious as you complete tons of similar missions for cash to do the missions you want, but the game offers many ways around this.”
  • music208 mentions

    The music in the game is generally described as calming and fitting for the space exploration theme, often featuring royalty-free tracks that some players find nostalgic or enjoyable. However, many reviewers note that the soundtrack can become repetitive over extended play sessions, leading some to prefer listening to their own music instead. Overall, while the music enhances the atmosphere, there is a desire for more variety and depth in the soundtrack.

    • “The style of the game and soundtrack are fun.”
    • “I love to play this game and just relax while building and hearing the iconic music!”
    • “The music is great and very calming, and the overall art style looks good, even though it's nothing too impressive.”
    • “I think the part that sold me on this game is that half the music is stock Kevin MacLeod songs.”
    • “The music can get repetitive at times, especially if you spend a lot of time building rockets.”
    • “The music isn't really anything special but it does provoke you to listen to your own music which might improve the experience.”
  • emotional119 mentions

    Players express a profound emotional connection to "Kerbal Space Program," experiencing a wide range of feelings from joy and pride to heartbreak and frustration. The game's challenges and the fate of the adorable kerbals create moments of genuine attachment, making successes feel exhilarating and failures deeply impactful. Overall, the emotional journey is a significant aspect of the gameplay, with many players describing it as both rewarding and heart-wrenching.

    • “This game made me cry when I landed on the Mun for the first time.”
    • “The emotional payoff when I was executing moon landings was really high.”
    • “It's heart-wrenching watching your kerbals get all the way to the Mun then explode on impact with the surface.”
  • monetization86 mentions

    The monetization aspect of the game has drawn significant criticism, primarily due to the introduction of a new launcher that serves as a platform for advertisements, particularly for the sequel, KSP2. Many users feel this launcher is unnecessary bloatware that compromises user experience and privacy, with concerns about data collection and potential future microtransactions. While the game itself has historically avoided microtransactions, the recent changes and the involvement of Take-Two Interactive have led to fears of a shift towards a more profit-driven model, including paid DLCs that were previously available for free through mods.

    • “A rare great game, no microtransactions.”
    • “This game is in early access admittedly, this may put some of you off, but do not let it be so, this game is as polished and tidy as most AAA releases these days, there are no microtransactions here, you are buying practically a finished game.”
    • “Payment information is also weird, since this game doesn't have microtransactions.”
    • “I used to love this game, then they broke it by adding their own crappy launcher just to launch KSP. This launcher wasn't asked for and is full of advertisements for their other games.”
    • “Game now comes with its own bloatware launcher, increasing the already horrible load times, harvesting user data without asking, all while shoving ads in your face and bricking the performance of a game already heavy to run.”
    • “Take 2 ruined this game; KSP 2 will be all microtransactions. Don't buy, don't support Take 2.”
  • character development4 mentions

    Character development in the game is largely absent, with reviewers noting a lack of story and character progression. However, the humorous character design and engaging gameplay mechanics are highlighted as standout features, contributing to an overall enjoyable experience despite the minimal narrative depth.

    • “Real physics, great character design, and a clever progression system make this a true game for the ages.”
    • “Funny character design.”
    • “There is no character development.”
    • “The characters feel flat and lack any meaningful growth throughout the game.”
    • “I was disappointed by the lack of depth in character arcs; they remained static and uninteresting.”
Positive mentions (%)Positive
Neutral mentions (%)Neutral
Negative mentions (%)Negative

Critic Reviews

76% average critic score

Buy Kerbal Space Program

Play time

242hMedian play time
394hAverage play time
115hMain story
602hCompletionist
52-600hSpent by most gamers
*Based on 480 analyzed playthroughs

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