Sandbox adventure game Core Keeper hit half a million Steam downloads within the first two weeks of its Early Access launch. Reviews have hailed it a “zen survival mining/farming game” that “feels meditative without being too repetitive”; it has also earned comparisons to titles like Terraria, Stardew Valley, Valheim, and Minecraft. What got everyone hooked?
- Can’t choose between freedom and structure? Core Keeper gives you the best of both worlds.
When the game opens, you awaken as an explorer in a massive, ancient cavern. In front of you are three interactive devices, each signifying a different boss you have to defeat. You are given a mission, but you still have the liberty to explore the procedurally-generated, underground world as you please.
Core Keeper gives players plenty of room to build: you can dig for better equipment, gather food for survival, strengthen your base, gear up for boss battles, and even build secondary bases. Exercise your creative muscles and progress at your own pace. When you want to move forward, Core Keeper’s crafting menu has brilliantly subtle clues leading you to the next phase of your mission.
- The more you play, the stronger you get—the bigger the world becomes.
When you first enter the world of Core Keeper, you’re surrounded by walls that hide the areas you have yet to explore. But the more you explore, the likelier you are to discover new materials and other perks. In short, you learn (both about the world you’re in and the skills you need to develop) by jumping straight into the water.
Core Keeper rewards you for the work you put in, of course. Earn points for perks the more you do a particular skill; even if you’re only just beginning to explore, your XP adds up to benefit you in the long run. Like the Norse-inspired survival game Valheim, you can play significant portions of the game before going head-to-head with bosses.
- Team up and strategize with up to 7 other adventurers.
Playing with friends makes it easier to divide and conquer Core Keeper’s expansive map. Seamlessly co-op with seven other players: some can farm, some can explore and hunt for new resources, and some can craft equipment. Split specializations and build rock-solid bases; you’re guaranteed to survive another night.
