Stormworks: Build and Rescue
- February 28, 2018
- Geometa
- 146h median play time
Get on SteamStormworks: Build and Rescue is a physics-based game that allows players to design, build, and pilot their own sea-rescue vehicles. Players must use their problem-solving skills to complete missions and rescue citizens in various challenging scenarios. The game also features a sandbox mode for open-ended creative play.
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Reviews
- story4,522 mentions
- 13 % positive mentions
- 78 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The story aspect of "Stormworks: Build and Rescue" is largely absent, with players noting that the game lacks a traditional narrative or overarching plot. Instead, it focuses on procedurally generated missions that often feel repetitive and simplistic, primarily revolving around rescue operations, firefighting, and transport tasks. While the game offers a sandbox experience where players can build and customize vehicles for these missions, many reviews express a desire for more diverse and engaging mission content, as well as a more structured progression system.
“Watching your meticulously designed vehicles come to life and tackle challenging missions is immensely satisfying.”
“Additionally, the dynamic weather and real-world challenges keep every mission fresh and exciting.”
“The mission aspect of Stormworks is where the game shines in terms of excitement.”
“The missions are boring, repetitive, and unrealistic.”
“The missions themselves are basic and feel like babysitting a world full of toddlers instead of running a rescue agency as every boat, car, and plane needs a fire put out medical attention.”
“The missions are very repetitive, and have no real progression.”
- gameplay3,022 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 66 % neutral mentions
- 10 % negative mentions
The gameplay of Stormworks is characterized by its intricate building mechanics and creative potential, allowing players to design a wide variety of vehicles using realistic physics and logic systems. However, many players find the actual gameplay experience lacking, with repetitive missions and numerous bugs that disrupt immersion and enjoyment. While the game offers a steep learning curve and deep mechanics, it often feels more like a sandbox for building than a cohesive game with engaging objectives, leading to mixed reviews regarding its overall gameplay quality.
“From the moment I first launched the game, I was captivated by its intricate blend of mechanics, stunning visuals, and open-ended gameplay.”
“Stormworks is a fantastic game that stands out for its creative potential and high-quality building mechanics.”
“The game’s career mode gives structure to your gameplay by progressively offering more difficult missions as you earn money and unlock better vehicle parts.”
“The main problem (there are hundreds more) is the performance even with a very strong computer the gameplay is laggy and the game crashes constantly. It's not about how strong your computer is; the game would still have 6 fps and crash if you are running it on a NASA supercomputer.”
“The career gameplay for what the game was originally made and is still promoted in the game description is buggy and poorly made with always the same 20 boring missions.”
“The gameplay itself is actually much better than I expected and trying the workshop items is fun, but the actual gameplay is sorely lacking.”
- graphics1,468 mentions
- 37 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 5 % negative mentions
The graphics of "Stormworks: Build and Rescue" are characterized by a low-poly art style that some players find charming and fitting for the game's mechanics, while others criticize it for being outdated and simplistic. Many reviews highlight that the graphics can run well on lower-end PCs, but performance issues arise with larger vehicles or complex builds, leading to lag and frame rate drops. Overall, while the visuals may not be cutting-edge, they are often described as adequate for the gameplay experience, with a unique aesthetic that appeals to a segment of the player base.
“From the moment I first launched the game, I was captivated by its intricate blend of mechanics, stunning visuals, and open-ended gameplay.”
“The graphical style of Stormworks is deliberately low-poly, but it works well for the game’s purpose.”
“With its realistic physics engine, dynamic weather system, and stunning graphics, it provides a challenging and rewarding experience.”
“The game has really bad graphics and is not worth the $25; possibly worth it if it's on sale.”
“Graphics in this game look like they are from the 80s.”
“The lag is garbage, graphics are not even that good.”
- optimization1,294 mentions
- 15 % positive mentions
- 63 % neutral mentions
- 22 % negative mentions
The optimization of Stormworks has been widely criticized, with players reporting significant performance issues, particularly in multiplayer settings and when using larger or more complex vehicles. Many users express frustration over the game's inability to run smoothly even on high-end systems, citing frequent crashes, lag, and a lack of meaningful updates to address these problems. Despite some improvements noted in recent patches, the consensus is that the game still requires substantial optimization to enhance overall playability and stability.
“The developers have been actively improving performance through patches, but players on lower-end systems may struggle with frame rates.”
“While there are areas for improvement, particularly in accessibility and performance optimization, the game's strengths far outweigh its shortcomings, making it a must-play for fans of engineering and exploration games.”
“The performance issues are very easy to fix and there is even a petition on the Steam Workshop with over 94% approval that outlines how they could fix the performance issues.”
“The game is horribly unoptimized and there is absolutely no air physics/aerodynamics, bullet velocity is basically zero, and multiplayer is laggy as hell.”
“The game has giant potential and if the devs would just fix the performance problems in singleplayer everyone would be happy; there are so many more problems but the players would ignore them if we just had decent performance, that's how desperate we are.”
“The optimization is terrible for multiplayer making it near unplayable when more than 4 small creations are spawned in at any given time or in some cases, just 1 large one.”
- stability1,218 mentions
- 3 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 96 % negative mentions
The stability of the game is widely criticized, with numerous players reporting persistent bugs, glitches, and performance issues, particularly in multiplayer mode. Many reviews describe the game as a "buggy mess," highlighting that updates often introduce new problems rather than resolve existing ones. While some players find enjoyment in the game's mechanics and creative potential, the overall consensus is that significant improvements are needed to enhance stability and gameplay experience.
“I would 100% recommend this game to anyone who has a computer, from potato to NASA supercomputer; this game runs great.”
“The game engine runs great even on an old system like mine.”
“Not only is the game very fun and bug-free, the devs constantly update the game and listen to their community.”
“It would have excellent potential, but the game is broken, it has continuous bugs, it glitches, there are moments in the middle of the sea with simple boats that slow down the game in an embarrassing way. This game needs to be fixed in order to be experienced.”
“The game is still however a buggy mess with many game-breaking bugs and needs a lot of work.”
“This game is a buggy mess and it's so hard to enjoy with the amount of game-breaking bugs.”
- humor372 mentions
- 99 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 1 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is a standout feature, with players frequently highlighting the hilarious mishaps and absurdities that arise during gameplay, particularly when building and testing vehicles. Many reviews mention the comedic potential of glitches and unexpected outcomes, making it a fun experience, especially in multiplayer settings. Overall, the game is described as a chaotic sandbox where players can enjoy countless funny moments, often leading to laughter and memorable experiences with friends.
“The hilarious mishaps and unexpected outcomes make each mission an adventure to remember.”
“There's just something so funny about your boat flying away after you've strapped jet engines to the back of it, as your mate is being catapulted around the boat's cabin at mach 10.”
“This game is a really great way to pass time although if you have a short temper you would not like it because it can be frustrating when your creation doesn't go as planned but it can also be funny if you are playing online and someone sees it.”
“The devs are so braindead it is not funny; this game has so much potential it's insane.”
- grinding326 mentions
- 1 % positive mentions
- 58 % neutral mentions
- 41 % negative mentions
The reviews overwhelmingly describe the grinding aspect of the game as tedious and time-consuming, often requiring players to invest excessive hours to achieve basic objectives. Many users express frustration with the repetitive nature of missions and the cumbersome building mechanics, suggesting that the game could benefit from improvements to reduce the grind and enhance overall enjoyment. While some find moments of fun, the consensus is that players will need a "second life" to endure the grinding experience.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“A bit grindy sometimes.”
“Decent grinding.”
“In conclusion, it's a game full of those moments where you sigh your lungs out, roll your eyes up, eyelids start flickering, where you get to solve a bunch of tedious problems by fighting the user interface before you get something basic done.”
“The fact there is basically no way to complete a mission that isn't endlessly tedious due to the need to be so far from the target to prevent the possibility you sink both vessels out of fear of the terribly implemented collision physics.”
“I find the game makes building a tedious task, one of my most significant issues with the game is not only the lack of blocks; but the unnecessary hurdles you have to go through to even build the simplest things.”
- music130 mentions
- 23 % positive mentions
- 75 % neutral mentions
- 2 % negative mentions
The music in the game has received mixed reviews, with many players praising the soundtrack as a standout feature that enhances the overall experience, often comparing it favorably to other popular games. However, some users have criticized the audio quality, noting issues like loudness and glitches, which detract from the enjoyment. Overall, while the music is generally appreciated for its relaxing and atmospheric qualities, there are calls for more variety and improvements in audio performance.
“The soundtrack is a masterpiece.”
“Best game ever and best music.”
“This is an amazing game, just can't stop feeling nostalgic while the music is playing through my ears.”
“This game has dogshit multiplayer, confusing mechanics, a borderline unusable physics engine, terrible graphics, and awful music.”
“The sound is just terrible, cartoon fart-y engine rumble and rain effects that mimic static, not to mention random pops and music glitches that just make you want to turn the game's master volume setting to 0%.”
“I can't play it, every time I load it up the music starts playing and I'm stuck on the title screen.”
- replayability112 mentions
- 45 % positive mentions
- 52 % neutral mentions
- 4 % negative mentions
The game boasts exceptional replayability, largely due to its extensive customization options, a massive map, and a vibrant modding community that continually introduces new content and missions. Players can engage in cooperative gameplay, tackle dynamically generated challenges, and explore user-generated content, ensuring a nearly infinite variety of experiences. However, some users note that technical issues and a lack of randomized missions can detract from the overall replay value.
“The ability to customize vehicles to meet specific mission needs adds depth and replayability.”
“Additionally, the Steam Workshop integration provides access to a wealth of user-generated content, including custom vehicles, missions, and environments, ensuring endless replayability and community engagement.”
“Endless possibilities and replayability: with no shortage of missions and challenges, Stormworks offers seemingly limitless opportunities for players to immerse themselves in.”
“This game looks and sounds fun, but the bugs, multiplayer, and overall replayability just isn't great.”
“Probably my biggest issue other than non-randomized and non-replayable missions: no crash damage, no death, penalty for failure, or time limits.”
“Fun if you enjoy creating, not so much if you want a more playable experience overall in-game.”
- monetization90 mentions
- 2 % positive mentions
- 4 % neutral mentions
- 93 % negative mentions
The monetization strategy of the game has drawn significant criticism, with many players labeling the downloadable content (DLC) as blatant cash grabs that fail to enhance the gameplay meaningfully. Reviews highlight a trend of releasing poorly tested updates and unnecessary DLCs, leading to a perception that the developers prioritize profit over player experience and game quality. Overall, the sentiment reflects disappointment in the game's direction, suggesting a shift away from its original promise towards a focus on monetization.
“Overall not a bad game; the problem is the developers are giving me EA flashbacks, as they focus more on monetization and additional content than game-related bugs.”
“In this age of gaming, it is not uncommon to see a game destroyed by its creators before it takes its first steps, via flaws in design or monetization mechanics; but Stormworks is a unique case in which the developers made the game not only walk but run, only to blow its legs off with a shotgun blast of conscious disregard for their player base and total apathy for the game that was sold to us in the past.”
“The whole throwing stuff together for DLCs no one is asking for just for the simple cash grab is disgusting behavior. I get that a company needs to be profitable, but this is blatantly about milking the game/concept for all the money it's worth now.”
“Very great foundation and room for creativity while playing; however, I do not like the direction this game is moving towards, especially the last big update where critical bugs were ignored in favor of pushing out DLC features that nobody wanted. The last two DLCs seemed more like a cash grab, but the last one was borderline catastrophic.”
“But unfortunately, having now come out of early access, Stormworks is starting to look like a story of unfulfilled potential and to feel like a cash grab.”
- atmosphere52 mentions
- 42 % positive mentions
- 52 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The atmosphere in the game is widely praised for its immersive qualities, featuring stunning graphics, dynamic weather systems, and a captivating low-poly art style that enhances the overall experience. Players appreciate the sense of scale and detail in the environment, which contributes to a relaxing yet engaging gameplay experience, particularly during rescue missions. However, some users note that the atmospheric mechanics can be flawed, affecting gameplay dynamics, and that the game leans more towards a building sandbox than a traditional game.
“The atmosphere is gorgeous, the gameplay is exciting, and the immersion is incredible.”
“Absolutely incredible scope and detail, with a fascinating weather system and atmospheric play... I'm hooked.”
“The colours of the times of day add a real atmosphere to the game, and most of all the way the sea moves in different weather conditions and catches the sun feel immersive and attractive.”
“Some players may prefer this, but if you're looking for a bustling atmosphere you'll have a better time elsewhere.”
“Overall a solid game with good creation tools, but the aero/hydrodynamics are woefully flawed - the atmosphere is thick and soupy, it is impossible to make a plane glide, and speed changes nearly instantly with engine power.”
“Smash my face into my desk because the glitches sent my vessel flying into the atmosphere...yet again and I forgot to save it, so hours of work are gone?”
- emotional46 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The emotional responses to the game are mixed, with players expressing deep attachment and nostalgia, often leading to tears of joy or frustration. While some find the experience wholesome and fun, others are disheartened by technical issues and updates that undermine their creations, resulting in feelings of disappointment and a desire to step away from the game. Overall, the community's passion for the game is evident, but it is marred by a sense of loss and frustration over its current state.
“So good that I cried every time wondering what I did wrong making the engine.”
“The plot was actually decent and had a few emotional tugs.”
“I know most people won't see this, but I have been playing this game since I was 8-9. After many years, the space update made me cry a little because I knew I was getting it. It has been so many years since I first started to play Stormworks, and I'm happy for the game and devs.”
- character development4 mentions
- 50 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 50 % negative mentions
The reviews indicate a strong appreciation for character design, scoring it 9/10, but there is a significant criticism regarding its quality, described as "horrendous." This suggests a disconnect between the intended aesthetic and player expectations, impacting overall character development perception.
