AutoForge happily blends 2 much-loved and popular indie titles. Moreover, this zany idea has been well-received by its Steam audience. Accordingly, this Early Access title is off to a flying start. However, can you create a truly original experience when you borrow the ideas and mechanics from Terraria and Factorio? This procedurally generated sandbox love child certainly hopes so.
This automation adventure title was developed and published by Siege Games. It has been in the works for ages and plans to be in Early Access for around 12 to 24 months. As such, there is plenty of time for it to evolve. Yet, I love the amount of early content and the interesting ideas and elements. Furthermore, there is something for everyone as you build a base/factory, explore a grim world, and fight an array of pissed-off denizens.
AutoForge tells a tale of a lost existence.
You play the role of Otto. This magical Golem awakens to discover an abandoned world that is cold and run down. Additionally, it is thwarted with dangers as everything and everyone is out to get you. But it doesn’t have to be this way. No, if you use your skills and explore your surroundings, you can make the best of a bad situation as you discover new areas and automate the hell out of your new home.
It is this basic idea that makes AutoForge unbelievably moreish. From the moment you jump into the action, you are introduced to a gentle learning curve. Moreover, you are free to do as you wish as you plan out your new existence in a harsh world. Whether you wish to climb into the skies or dig deep underground, the choice is yours. However, don’t run before you can walk as you will get your ass kicked repeatedly.
A wonderful sense of freedom.
If you love the automation of Factorio and the side-scrolling resource gathering of Terraria, then you will cherish every second of AutoForge. The game demands that you explore a sprawling world that gradually expands. Alongside this, you are encouraged to make mana-greedy machines that improve your existence and help you to progress. It is this sense of advancement and technological wonderment that keeps you coming back for more.
Alongside this, the skill tree defines your history and the path you wish to take. Therefore, you must learn new technology if you wish to succeed. This complex list of abilities, buildings, and more could seem overwhelming. However, I loved how there was an instant sense of reward. Additionally, it forces you to explore the deepest and darkest regions as you attempt to upgrade Otto’s mainframe.
Machines and fighting.
The piece de resistance has to be the automation of technology. I’ve been addicted to Factorio for an untold amount of time. Consequently, it wasn’t going to take a lot for me to fall for a similar idea. Yes, there are a few tweaks that could improve things. Yet, at this early stage, I appreciated the large list of content and the interesting ideas.
The fighting, on the other hand, was a bit of a damp squib. I’ve never been keen on the combat element of a heavy-building game. The necessity to defend yourself or to go fighting undermines the exceptional base-building elements. I know this is a limited viewpoint, but I’d like the developers to create a mode where combat is potentially removed altogether. If you enjoy this aspect, you’ll love the auto defence systems and the rudimentary fighting approach.
AutoForge is a classic indie experience.
The dark and seedy nature of AutoForge is wonderfully presented. The grim colour palette and the varied backdrops highlight the doomed apocalyptic edge. What’s more, the basic pixelated graphics work exceptionally well. I loved the side-scrolling movement, the animation, and the character design. On top of this, the procedurally generated ideas ensure that no playthrough is the same.
The audio is both eerie and upbeat in equal measure. Moreover, it adds a sense of despair and excitement during lesser moments. The sci-fi edge and the strange sound effects also complement it. As such, it’s a bit of a mixed bag that works extremely well.
Defined controls.
The excellent tutorial helps to set the scene. The defined controls are easy to understand, and the clear UI prevents the action from becoming overwhelming and uncomfortable. Subsequently, this is perfect for newbie gamers and those who adore the genre.
Though AutoForge is in Early Access, the potential is plain to see! The massive sprawling map with varied regions holds your attention. Additionally, the technology tree is huge. If this title has only 10% the addictive nature of Factorio and Terraria, then you will still lose hours of your life to it.
AutoForge deserves high praise.
I had a sneaky feeling that AutoForge would be fantastic. Yet, I didn’t expect it to be this well-polished. Some elements need ironing out, and I’m sure the more I explore, the more glitches and bugs I’ll encounter. However, this is a wonderful Early Access title that will be tough to put down. Accordingly, I recommend buying it here! Can you create the factory of your dreams? Explore the world, protect your base, and discover some wonderful ancient technology.
