Kerbal Space Program

 PC
User Score
8.2

Generally favorable reviews- based on 724 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 584 out of 724
  2. Mixed: 54 out of 724
  3. Negative: 86 out of 724

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  1. qbert55ca
    Jun 25, 2015
    2
    While KSP was being developed it gained a following as a fun game that mods, both useful and fun could be added to. Unfortunately, Squad in it's redesign did a terrible job for it's full Commercial release, Kerbal Space Program 1.0 resulting in a kludged together game that was very poorly checked by the beta team resulting in patches that are making the an even more kludged game where playWhile KSP was being developed it gained a following as a fun game that mods, both useful and fun could be added to. Unfortunately, Squad in it's redesign did a terrible job for it's full Commercial release, Kerbal Space Program 1.0 resulting in a kludged together game that was very poorly checked by the beta team resulting in patches that are making the an even more kludged game where play is becoming tedious and boring. In career mode the contracts given are way out of on what the physics of the game allow you to do making it necessary to at least have the "mulligan" button clicked so that you at least have a Kerbal alive to play with. In sand box mode it's a little bit more fun but at the Kerbals expense.

    All in all, This game went from a 9.5 with version 0.90 to a 5 with the introduction of KSP1.0, which is now a 3 with the patch 1.04 a few day ago.    … Expand
  2. Bluecz
    Jun 24, 2015
    10
    I would write a longer review but too busy playing the game (for almost 1000 hours already).
    Both fun and educational. One of the best spent money ever.
  3. rd1349
    Jun 23, 2015
    10
    This one will be short I promise.
    Kerbal space program. Damn this game is fun.
    Gameplay. Build what you want launch it into space (or otherwise) watch it explode, die a little inside, fix the problem, try again rinse wash repeat until you reach the moon. Then realize you've just beat the equivilent of the first checkpoint in the game. This may seem like a frustrating process but it is    This one will be short I promise.
    Kerbal space program. Damn this game is fun.
    Gameplay. Build what you want launch it into space (or otherwise) watch it explode, die a little inside, fix the problem, try again rinse wash repeat until you reach the moon.
    Then realize you've just beat the equivilent of the first checkpoint in the game.
    This may seem like a frustrating process but it is one of the most engaging and addicting I've ever seen.

    Graphics (as is probably required) are rather minimalist. Probably because you just modeled and enabled physics on the entire solar system. They're not great, but you're PC probably couldn't handle it otherwise.

    Few games can be judged by this but this is one of them.
    Modding community. Amazing. The modders in the community are constantly shelling out mods that seem to almost all be a extremely good quality. These mods are made by people who because of the "simplicity" (extreme sarcasm alert) of the game know exactly what is in demand and promtly make a mod for it. Coupled with the developer support for these mods, going as far as to integrate them into the final game, mods easily bump this game up from an 8 out of 10 to a solid 10.

    This game is not for everyone, in fact the target audience for the game is probably very small but it does what it does the best it's ever been done. Considering there is no other game like this out there it probably just filled a craving we've been having for awhile.

    Final verdict 10 out of 10. (with mods)
    hard to get into but gets going like a steam train being propelled at 3000 m/s re-entering the atmosphere.
    Why is there a steam train in space you ask.
    because you put it there.    … Expand
  4. GameKiller1337
    Jun 23, 2015
    9
    Normal Game,Good Gameplay,normal graphics
    -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    in total:9 points
  5. SionideGaming
    Jun 21, 2015
    10
    Kerbal Space Program (KSP) is probably one of the best science sandbox games out there, I love the idea of building rockets or space planes to go to different planets or just orbit the earth, and because of the success new games such as Space Engineers has come along seeing the success of KSP hoping to become just as successful as KSP, an Space Engineers is a really good game aswell, so IKerbal Space Program (KSP) is probably one of the best science sandbox games out there, I love the idea of building rockets or space planes to go to different planets or just orbit the earth, and because of the success new games such as Space Engineers has come along seeing the success of KSP hoping to become just as successful as KSP, an Space Engineers is a really good game aswell, so I would highly recommend KSP aswell as Space Engineers.… Expand
  6. CiAnObAh
    Jun 16, 2015
    9
    I loved this game even though I was bad at it. just encouraged me to keep trying and get that rocket as far as I could. Love how realistic the physics is in the game and I will always come back to play a bit more. It was so fun to play and I loved that they focused on game play the most rather than graphics although it still looks well I personally think.
  7. TheCappelRater
    Jun 13, 2015
    10
    An absolute need for all explorers, Space Or backyard. The Amazing thing about this game is that..
    One amazing thing?
    1.The game doesn't criticize you for NOT going to space. In fact, the game doesn't criticize you for anything. you play the game how you want to, not how it was built to played. There's no loss or penalty for whatever you do. 2.It's so accurate, yet so fun! Some games    An absolute need for all explorers, Space Or backyard. The Amazing thing about this game is that..
    One amazing thing?
    1.The game doesn't criticize you for NOT going to space. In fact, the game doesn't criticize you for anything. you play the game how you want to, not how it was built to played. There's no loss or penalty for whatever you do.
    2.It's so accurate, yet so fun! Some games are built for professionals and are hard to play without knowing everything about it, and other games are easy to learn, but don't come close to representing the task done in real life that the game is trying to recreate. KSP makes the middle. It's easy to learn, and doesn't require extreme skill and knowledge, but represents space travel so accurately that NASA cooperated with them to build the scenario in which you save a meteor form hitting kerbin using insanely realistic physics.
    Generally amazing, KSP takes the top of the hill in space exploration games.
    Worth The Cost: 30 USD, Worth Every penny. I would've paid FIFTY and still not complained.    … Expand
  8. BrainAndSoul
    Jun 13, 2015
    10
    This IS an instruction for indie-developers how to concurent with "A" class project. The best gameplay of 2015,fantastic style and desighn of Kerbal world, nice unique idea, really good setting - this game definitely found its audience. Also, I like how they concieve the game- all this things like "loñapsE" in Kerbal's speech and some Easter eggs inside the game - it is absolutely fantastic
  9. soulsource
    Jun 12, 2015
    9
    KSP is the epic of your very own space program.
    You start out with not much more than a parachute, a command pod, and a solid fuel rocket engine.
    Based on these rather simple parts you'll build and pilot your first rockets, that'll send Kerbonauts up into the air to do some research, which allows you to quickly unlock the parts necessary to send Kerbonauts up beyond the air, and soon to    KSP is the epic of your very own space program.
    You start out with not much more than a parachute, a command pod, and a solid fuel rocket engine.
    Based on these rather simple parts you'll build and pilot your first rockets, that'll send Kerbonauts up into the air to do some research, which allows you to quickly unlock the parts necessary to send Kerbonauts up beyond the air, and soon to orbit, and further out. Where to? Well, that's completely up to you. The Mün is a natural goal of most space programs, but there are also 6 planets (not counting Kerbin) and their natural satellites to go to. But why just go there and back again? You can do much more! Assemble a permanent space station in the orbit of another planet, with a reusable lander and a fuel depot! Bring along mining equipment and drill for rocket fuel! Take the challenge of returning a Kerbonaut from the surface of Eve (a planet inspired by Venus -> thick atmosphere)! Drive a self-designed rover over the dunes of Duna (a Mars-like planet)! Fly a jetplane through the alien, but oxygen-containing atmosphere of the Joolian moon Laythe (no real life equivalent)!

    But back to reality. KSP is a spaceflight simulation that tries to be as realistic as possible, as long as realism doesn't have any negative effect on how fun the game is. For instance, the way orbital mechanics is simulated is pretty realistic (patched conics), meaning that for calculating fuel requirements one can use the real formulas (or look up the numbers on the wiki, if one doesn't like maths). On the other hand, without mods there is no need for life support, there is only one type of liquid fuel, the planets are too dense to exist in the real world, ion engines are vastly overpowered,...

    Nevertheless, KSP is one of the "sciencier" space sims, as the spacecraft parts in the game are either similar to something that exists in real life, or things that probably will be built soon or have been built in labs but never used on actual spacecrafts. So, for all the science fiction fans out there: No, there is just one planetary system, and no, there is no over-c drive, and no, there are no aliens (if you don't count the Kerbals themselves).
    This also means that there's a steep learning curve, if one doesn't have a background in spaceflight engineering, but as long as one can handle a calculator or a spreadsheet application, and one can read wikipedia, one should be fine.

    If one is up for an extra challenge, KSP can be made even more realistic by installing a collection of mods known as Realism Overhaul, with which one can get an impression of the challenges faced by real space agencies...

    As you probably can tell by now, I love this game. It's my second favorite, just topped by dwarf fortress. One of the reasons I'm only giving 9 instead of 10 points are the bugs the game is still suffering from. With release of version 1.0 one would expect to get a nearly bug-free experience. Well, that's not the case, and the current version 1.0.2 still feels like a beta version. But one learns to work around some bugs, and the community supplies mods that fix some of them as well, so the effect on gameplay is relatively negligible. The other reason I only give 9 points is that the game is currently using a single-threaded physics engine, what means that very big ships can cause the game to stutter, although only one CPU core is under load. The developers have announced a switch to Unity 5 though, so there's hope for multithreaded physics in the future.    … Expand
  10. Midds
    Jun 7, 2015
    8
    A defining aspect of this game is it's replayability. Over the years I have played this game I have sent many poor Kerbans hurtling to their most likely demise by slamming them (mostly unintentionally) into the moon or have them lost in space, indefinitely orbiting the sun.

    KSP provides a decent amount of content. Mixed with its unique and sandbox style, the game provides an excellent    A defining aspect of this game is it's replayability. Over the years I have played this game I have sent many poor Kerbans hurtling to their most likely demise by slamming them (mostly unintentionally) into the moon or have them lost in space, indefinitely orbiting the sun.

    KSP provides a decent amount of content. Mixed with its unique and sandbox style, the game provides an excellent experience. In terms of performance, the game runs incredibly well right up until it doesn't and some 'semi-bugs' can create entertaining anecdotes.

    The career game mode still seems a little 'slapped on' and it isn't exactly something that you'd want to do repeatedly, but nevertheless, it still adds something positive to the game as a whole.

    Overall a very good game that stands the test of time.    … Expand
  11. aLPHa_NRG
    Jun 2, 2015
    9
    Ever thought of becoming a rocket scientist? In Kerbal Space Program, you can and the game does this extremely well! Each time you try and launch a rocket it is a pleasure to see the kerbals go and try to become a astronaut. Before you know it you tune this and do that to push things and the clock a bit further. Well, after all it is not rocket science now is it? To infinity and beyond!
  12. arctic_fox_sa
    May 31, 2015
    10
    This game is an absolute treat. I've been following since its earliest release and just keeps getting better. The final release does suffer from a few minor imbalances mid-game, but is easily the best I have ever played.
  13. TheQWERTY
    May 24, 2015
    10
    Day 12, still trying to rescue Jeb from the moon. It has been challenging and rewarding every step of the way. From achieving your first orbit around Kerbin to docking two vessels in low orbit of the moon of Duna, Ike, the game is extremely rewarding.
  14. Trebek
    May 19, 2015
    10
    If you like building rockets, launching rockets, and accidentally blowing up your crew then KSP is the game for you!

    I have dumped over 1700 hours in to this game over the early access period and feel that I have absolutely got great value for my money out of it. The only criticism I might level is that there is no campaign where you are forced to do X-Y-Z in order. Instead it's very    If you like building rockets, launching rockets, and accidentally blowing up your crew then KSP is the game for you!

    I have dumped over 1700 hours in to this game over the early access period and feel that I have absolutely got great value for my money out of it. The only criticism I might level is that there is no campaign where you are forced to do X-Y-Z in order. Instead it's very open ended and in the career mode it's basically up to you to decide how to proceed, what parts to research and what missions to pursue.

    A word on the difficulty level, plan to play the tutorial... plan to fail a lot... it's half the fun :D    … Expand
  15. Rimmsolin
    May 18, 2015
    10
    Lunar Lander to the extreme! Work through the launching test rockets into the air all the way to landing and rovering on the moon and back via real physics. Makes you feel like Yuri Gagarin. Absolute must buy for any NASA or space fan. One of the best feelings of accomplishment ever produced in a video game.
  16. Exwin0880
    May 14, 2015
    10
    One of the best games I've ever played.

    The word game doesn't feel right. Kerbal Space Program is hard, make no mistake about it, but with its challenge comes the feeling that you have accomplished something. After smashing countless numbers of brave Kerbals, the feeling you get when you land one on the planet's moon for the 1st time and he plants the flag makes it all worth it.    One of the best games I've ever played.

    The word game doesn't feel right. Kerbal Space Program is hard, make no mistake about it, but with its challenge comes the feeling that you have accomplished something. After smashing countless numbers of brave Kerbals, the feeling you get when you land one on the planet's moon for the 1st time and he plants the flag makes it all worth it.

    Afterwards comes more challenges, visiting other planets in the solar system, playing with aircraft design, it's all in this "game". KSP is more than a game, it is something you HAVE to experience.    … Expand
  17. vandana
    May 12, 2015
    10
    Kerbal Space Program is one of those games that make you feel privileged to experience them and play them.

    KSP is perhaps the biggest achievement in the field of combining enjoyable gameplay with educational value. No wonder that NASA has endorsed this game. KSP teaches you the basics of orbital mechanics, rocket science and aerodynamics leaving you hungry for more. It makes learning    Kerbal Space Program is one of those games that make you feel privileged to experience them and play them.

    KSP is perhaps the biggest achievement in the field of combining enjoyable gameplay with educational value. No wonder that NASA has endorsed this game. KSP teaches you the basics of orbital mechanics, rocket science and aerodynamics leaving you hungry for more. It makes learning those things fun, because you can instantly apply the knowledge into practice and achieve some space exploration of your own.

    But all science aside, this is just a fun, satisfying experience. Clever, by also being emotional. You immediately connect withe the cute little Kerbals and I would risk a statement that putting feet of your little pioneers: Jebediah and Valentina on new celestial bodies, or getting your first plane to fly, is comparable to real-life adventuring conquests. Building and flying rockets has never been more fun.

    Possibilities for expansion of gameplay are vast thanks to the awesome modding scene and community. I recommend a playthrough of classic career mode, without any mods, in order to learn the game. From there, you can take it in many directions using countless mods - more realism, new planets, multiplayer, weapons, hundreds of new parts and rocket types, you name it.

    At the moment I would say the downsides are the limited engine and the career mode not being very interesting. At some point, when your rockets start getting really big, there is a lot of graphical lag. 64-bit client is still unstable. The all-new career mode is supposed to add financial side to the game and make you build more responsibly taking care of reputation and, most importantly, money, but to be honest it feels like a bottleneck and obstacle on your way to conquering the space. at the end of the day it doesn't matter, the building and flying part of the game is so magnificent, it deserves the highest score on its own. Perhaps, the game developer will find a way to make career work, but that would only add a cherry on top of a cake that is already delicious.

    I consider the money paid on KSP as the best money I ever spent on entertainment.

    Tip: Watch Scott Manley's tutorials, game is hard.    … Expand
  18. fernandodlc
    May 12, 2015
    10
    Greatest game ever made, I logged hundreds of hours before it was even a game. Now under full release it is difficult to see how anything else comes close.

    Lego with rockets. What more do you want?
  19. replica17
    May 11, 2015
    10
    Bought this game 1.5 year ago and it's one of the few games I still play to this day. I think that says enough!

    Huge modding community too.

    +10!
  20. Kluge
    May 10, 2015
    10
    You've spent weeks finally getting a Kerbel to the "mun." He's out of fuel and it's your fault. -And your contract sure didn't tell you to strand a Kerbel on the mun - it demanded you orbit the mun, and you're running out of time. You don't have any new parts to work with, and what you thought was your best - that beautiful 8-stage setup, a masterpiece of drag-conscious design - wasn'tYou've spent weeks finally getting a Kerbel to the "mun." He's out of fuel and it's your fault. -And your contract sure didn't tell you to strand a Kerbel on the mun - it demanded you orbit the mun, and you're running out of time. You don't have any new parts to work with, and what you thought was your best - that beautiful 8-stage setup, a masterpiece of drag-conscious design - wasn't good enough. It sucked, and until you correct your mistake, you suck. It was pretty and elegant - easy to understand (and it sure was expensive!) - so I guess you're like the Apple of rocket design without the benefits of using UNIX... congratulations, go man the Genius Bar.

    You don't click "recover kerbel and spacecraft." Nope - he effectively represents 100,000 units of currency frozen because you didn't plan well enough. Your budget's tighter than before you screwed up, but you need to build a spacecraft which can collect the kerbel, orbit the mun, and then return to not-Earth without burning up or crashing too hard. Right? Not necessarily, and probably not. KSP challenges you to think long and hard about the most efficient solutions to problems, no matter how ugly they appear. -And nobody's going to fault you for starting career mode from scratch at that point... so long as you learned enough to not repeat your mistakes, which is easier said than done.    … Expand
  21. Ming120
    May 9, 2015
    10
    I first tried KSP during early access, and have playing it ever since. Even after all this time, I have hardly even scratched the surface as to what one can really accomplish in this game. There is tons of learning and exploring involved with this game, and that is part of it's charm. The sense of accomplishment you get when you overcome obstacles is unlike anything you will experience inI first tried KSP during early access, and have playing it ever since. Even after all this time, I have hardly even scratched the surface as to what one can really accomplish in this game. There is tons of learning and exploring involved with this game, and that is part of it's charm. The sense of accomplishment you get when you overcome obstacles is unlike anything you will experience in other games. When you finally land your Kerbals on the Moon (Mun) for instance, that in itself is an accomplishment that Is worth bragging about to your friends.

    Even my coworkers have taken a liking to KSP after watching me play it. There is, quite frankly, no other experience like it.    … Expand
  22. ireviewthings1
    May 8, 2015
    10
    It is a very fun game on its own. Producing catastrophic failures has never been this fun. It provokes childish curiosity like nothing I've experienced since leaving primary school. Great mod support and charming little astronauts to boot.

    If I would have kids, this would be the game I want them to play.
  23. Buccelus
    May 7, 2015
    10
    Absolutely great game. I enjoyed not looking up tutorial videos and just making it barely out of the athmosphere, having no idea how to get any science points at all. When I found out I had "wasted" 8 hours of gameplay because I just had to click on one of the science modules attached to my rockets I face palmed harder than ever in Crusader Kings II or any other game. I felt so dumb andAbsolutely great game. I enjoyed not looking up tutorial videos and just making it barely out of the athmosphere, having no idea how to get any science points at all. When I found out I had "wasted" 8 hours of gameplay because I just had to click on one of the science modules attached to my rockets I face palmed harder than ever in Crusader Kings II or any other game. I felt so dumb and yet so happy at the same time. 10/10
    FYI: There is this guy Scott Manley on youtube who provides a lot of gameplay material if you are interested in this game and how to get along in career mode.    … Expand
  24. joecool99
    May 7, 2015
    7
    Great game, the technical presentation reminds me of the original UFO defense from Microprose in 1994
    I want to see streamlined KERBAL 2 - similar to recent reboot by Firaxis XCOM in analogy. They streamlined it well with good game mechanics and graphics. Not perfect, yet I prefer it over original now.
    I have about 50h in Kerbal - however my excitement is diminishing with the weak    Great game, the technical presentation reminds me of the original UFO defense from Microprose in 1994
    I want to see streamlined KERBAL 2 - similar to recent reboot by Firaxis XCOM in analogy. They streamlined it well with good game mechanics and graphics. Not perfect, yet I prefer it over original now.

    I have about 50h in Kerbal - however my excitement is diminishing with the weak boring graphics, loading in between flight center and launchpad etc. - empty planets.

    KERBAL 2 vision:
    - immense graphics overhaul (think no mans sky)
    - somewhat streamlined gameplay and research (not everybody want to deal with 20 different winglets etc.)
    - better time speed mechanics and limits.
    - planet view needs to look as real planets with hi-res textures and dynamic atmosphere (if it has one)
    - narrative gameplay single player - journey across Galaxy etc. (think homeworld)
    - better physics of cloth for parachute
    - I'm sure there is more...

    This is already a huge success for your studio. Keep evolving, now you have funds - take it to next step! ;-)    … Expand
  25. mwerle
    May 7, 2015
    9
    Brilliant, satisfying, and highly addictive game once you push past the initial, admittedly steep, learning curve. In a nutshell, you build, launch, and hopefully, fly, rockets for the inquisitive and quite undaunted little green Kerbals, whose main aim in life is to one day land on the Mun.

    The game holds up a mirror to our own endeavours in space, and does so with a reasonable level    Brilliant, satisfying, and highly addictive game once you push past the initial, admittedly steep, learning curve. In a nutshell, you build, launch, and hopefully, fly, rockets for the inquisitive and quite undaunted little green Kerbals, whose main aim in life is to one day land on the Mun.

    The game holds up a mirror to our own endeavours in space, and does so with a reasonable level of physics simulation; various aspects of the game being simulated to a greater or lesser degree so as not to detract too much from the fun factor. Rather sneakily, it also teaches you quite a bit about realistic orbital mechanics and rockets in general without you noticing.

    You start off launching very simple rockets with an initial aim of reaching orbit. Later on, you'll be tasked to create more ambitious missions to fly to, land on, and, hopefully, return from, the Mun and then on to the other planets of the Kerbol solar system.

    There are various modes to play in, from a completely open sandbox where you can build and fly your wildest creations, to a full on career mode where you have to carefully balance your budget against the missions you're currently trying to complete.

    There is not much in the way of hand-holding which can put new players off a bit, but the KSP community (on the official forums and Reddit) is absolutely amazing, as well as a plethora of YouTube channels offering both immersive stories as well as tutorials. Through the community you also gain access to a huge variety of mods, which add pretty much everything from additional science experiments to more rocket parts and even planets to complete rewrites of the aerodynamics systems for the diehard simulation fanatics.

    The only minus is that even though KSP has finally come out of Early Access, there are still a few minor niggles and final game play balance adjustments to be made, but the developers are well on the ball and development of the game continues.

    Be warned, this is not a casual 5-minutes-at-a-time game, but if you do get into it, it's well worth the initial investment and will lead to (hundreds of) hours of fun as the inexhaustible supply of Kerbals queues up to be launched on your crazy creations... hopefully returning safely!    … Expand
  26. socokid
    May 6, 2015
    10
    An amazing 1.0 release for a game that has been developed correctly: Steadily and with massive user input.

    Career mode leads you through progressively, and the tutorials are nicely done. Some of the missions in the career mode are as crazy as Kerbals, but achieving them makes you a better ship designer.

    I can't say enough good things about this crazy game. But it and enjoy it. Very fun.
  27. DonMega
    May 6, 2015
    10
    Have played this for about a 2 years and have to say the game is amazing. I hope the developers keep to their word and provide fresh new free updates as the game grows. Needless to say that, this is not an easy game to get into and instantly build amazing ships. There is a huge learning curve but once you get the game mechanics down it is very fun. I've logged about 1000 hours into it andHave played this for about a 2 years and have to say the game is amazing. I hope the developers keep to their word and provide fresh new free updates as the game grows. Needless to say that, this is not an easy game to get into and instantly build amazing ships. There is a huge learning curve but once you get the game mechanics down it is very fun. I've logged about 1000 hours into it and still learn new things. Definitely worth it. Also worth supporting an amazing indie developer. They have always stayed true to their community. Btw forgot to mention that there is also a ton of mods available for the game which enhance it with great features.… Expand
  28. nestor_d
    May 5, 2015
    10
    Kerbal Space Program is a game where you design, build and fly your own spacecraft. It is probably not for everyone. It's not a game you can just casually play, but it isn't a game for gamers necessarily. It is most of all a game for the curious and creative minded. I say it's not casual not because you have to obsess over it, but because it will demand a lot from you. With the officialKerbal Space Program is a game where you design, build and fly your own spacecraft. It is probably not for everyone. It's not a game you can just casually play, but it isn't a game for gamers necessarily. It is most of all a game for the curious and creative minded. I say it's not casual not because you have to obsess over it, but because it will demand a lot from you. With the official 1.0 release physics were greatly improved and so the learning curve will be steep at first, after all it is rocket science!

    If you are up to it it will give you some of the most rewarding experiences the gaming world has to offer. Mind you, I say you need curiosity and creativity for good reasons. It is a game that has a very vast universe (a whole solar system) but absolutely no pre-set goals, except those you set for yourself. Even in career mode, where you will be given contracts to complete, you can choose which contracts to accept and they you will pobably have set yourself a lot of challenges before contracts to do exactly that are even available. In the end contracts are more a menas to an end. They will reward you with precious funds and science points, needed in career mode, to launch ever better spacecraft. Once you get the basics, getting to orbit or the moon will feel almost intuitive, but when you want to get to the moons of Jool (KSP analog for Jupiter) and back you will need to get creative. After all the kerbal's level of technology is only slightly more advanced than humanity's!

    In the first of stages of the game you may find yourself asking "how can I make a rocket that will get me to the moon and back in one piece?" but later on you will be thinking about things like how to build a carrier in orbit that will take your new spaceplanes to one of the moons of Jool where you have established a colony but you need transportation for the Kerbals now living and doing science in there. Really neat stuff.    … Expand
  29. axela
    May 5, 2015
    10
    Short version: Buy it now! What are you waiting for?
    Long version: I'm 40 years old and I play video-games from when I was 8 years old and this is the game that I love more then any other! I played almost 700 hours on Steam and only because I've a work, a wife and two little children to attend for, if only I had more free time I would have played KSP a lot more.
    Just an hint: don't stop    Short version: Buy it now! What are you waiting for?
    Long version: I'm 40 years old and I play video-games from when I was 8 years old and this is the game that I love more then any other! I played almost 700 hours on Steam and only because I've a work, a wife and two little children to attend for, if only I had more free time I would have played KSP a lot more.
    Just an hint: don't stop at the stock version, explore the wonderful mods. If you are searching a more focused Career game play try BTSM, an extremely polished mod (but much harder than stock KSP).    … Expand
  30. ShellbyC__GT500
    May 5, 2015
    10
    An amazing science sandbox for all users, have tons of hours on it. I can't wait until they start using this in schools (if they even will do anything).
  31. clarky
    May 5, 2015
    10
    I am a hard critic and KSP is easily beyond anything I would call a game. The replay value alone is worth all of the FPS games I have ever played for 15 years combined and multiplied by 10. There is a lot to learn, but the learning process is epic. My only negative is choosing Unity3D as the engine held back the game. It is not too long before Part Count becomes a problem and thisI am a hard critic and KSP is easily beyond anything I would call a game. The replay value alone is worth all of the FPS games I have ever played for 15 years combined and multiplied by 10. There is a lot to learn, but the learning process is epic. My only negative is choosing Unity3D as the engine held back the game. It is not too long before Part Count becomes a problem and this should not be the case on a modern gaming rig. However, this does not make a dent in the 10/10 score given. Awesome work, Awesome community and Awesome game design about an Awesome subject.… Expand
  32. cephalo
    May 5, 2015
    10
    This is the most original and successful game design to come out in years. The kind of challenges it provides are the kind where you master the challenge by learning, and then you move on to the next challenge ready to learn the next thing. The game is difficult when you lack knowledge, and easy when you gain knowledge. That is not a common thing in computer games, and is what makes KSPThis is the most original and successful game design to come out in years. The kind of challenges it provides are the kind where you master the challenge by learning, and then you move on to the next challenge ready to learn the next thing. The game is difficult when you lack knowledge, and easy when you gain knowledge. That is not a common thing in computer games, and is what makes KSP very special. If you have any doubts that you must experience this game, check out the tutorials on youtube for getting into orbit. If you're the kind of person who is interested enough to read a review, see it in action and you will be hooked.… Expand
  33. Thomas988
    May 5, 2015
    10
    Kerbal Space Program is nothing less than a modern masterpiece. I have poured countless dozens, perhaps hundreds, of hours into this game, and not one second of it all do I regret. Buying KSP is by far the greatest investment I have ever made. The parts are diverse, the physics and aerodynamics works perfect with any craft, and the amount of exploration possible is unparalleled.

    Don't    Kerbal Space Program is nothing less than a modern masterpiece. I have poured countless dozens, perhaps hundreds, of hours into this game, and not one second of it all do I regret. Buying KSP is by far the greatest investment I have ever made. The parts are diverse, the physics and aerodynamics works perfect with any craft, and the amount of exploration possible is unparalleled.

    Don't even give buying KSP a second thought, you WILL love it.    … Expand
  34. amzeratul
    May 3, 2015
    10
    I dare say that no other game features such a high-quality blend of sandbox fun, rewarding challenge, and educational value. Realistic but fun, awe-inspiring but cute, this game ticks many unique checkboxes and should have a place in the collection of every geek, or fan of simulation games.
  35. Boilesen
    May 3, 2015
    10
    One of the best sandbox games I have ever played. Spend hundred of hours jus trying to build a rocket that could reach the first moon. The career mode is incredible, mixing the right amount of progress and cost. 11 out of 10!
  36. DtADrUnK
    May 2, 2015
    10
    A game that makes you use your brain, while having loads of fun. Also the HUGE mod following guaranties hours of continued splosions and fun! 10/10......
  37. Kalle_Paulsen
    May 2, 2015
    10
    I've already clocked over 900 hours in this game throughout the early access. Talk about getting your money's worth out of a game thousandfold!
    It is easily one of my all time favorites.
  38. knutsi
    May 2, 2015
    10
    I have never played anything like this. I suspect what got me started was the constant news about SpaceX and it's landing attempts, giving an enormous appreciation for the engineering that goes into space exploration and access. In this game, you will be touching up the engineering, the science and astronomy, the astronauts, the orbital and celestial dynamics and so much more. It's anI have never played anything like this. I suspect what got me started was the constant news about SpaceX and it's landing attempts, giving an enormous appreciation for the engineering that goes into space exploration and access. In this game, you will be touching up the engineering, the science and astronomy, the astronauts, the orbital and celestial dynamics and so much more. It's an incredible experience, despite occasionally presented in rudimentary ways. It sometimes makes me wonder if Unity was the best game engine for this, but it has non the less been masterfully executed. I've played on and off since early access on Steam, and it just keeps getting better. Add a vibrant mod community, and you have what I think should be game of the year. Like Civilization, it inspires you to learn about the real world, and you will never watch a rocket launch on TV in the quite the same way. Learn it, play it, love it. (and for God's sake, use YouTube, or you will be truly lost in space).… Expand
  39. Pelu
    May 2, 2015
    10
    Perhaps the best game ever created, along with Civilization series. It's fun, educational and addictive. I have been waiting long for the release, because I would have given the version 0.21 already 10/10. I recommend playing it in science-only mode, because money slightly limits your crazy ideas (MORE boosters!). Also, don't mind too much about the contracts, and the administrationPerhaps the best game ever created, along with Civilization series. It's fun, educational and addictive. I have been waiting long for the release, because I would have given the version 0.21 already 10/10. I recommend playing it in science-only mode, because money slightly limits your crazy ideas (MORE boosters!). Also, don't mind too much about the contracts, and the administration building is just boring. But these flaws don't decrease the score, because you can just avoid them.… Expand
  40. Catfud
    May 1, 2015
    10
    This game does everything right. Perfect mix of hardcore physics simulation and casual tongue in cheek fun blowing stuff up with little green men. Active developers that listened to feedback and made changes throughout it's time as a poster child of early access games, amazing modding community and open frameworks to play any way you want. If anything about any of these genres interest youThis game does everything right. Perfect mix of hardcore physics simulation and casual tongue in cheek fun blowing stuff up with little green men. Active developers that listened to feedback and made changes throughout it's time as a poster child of early access games, amazing modding community and open frameworks to play any way you want. If anything about any of these genres interest you there is no way you could go wrong with Kerbal. Need it more hardcore or realistic? Mod it. Need it more casual? Sandbox modes. The game will subtly teach you orbital mechanics and real concepts and expand your interest and knowledge about our real life space exploration and give you the appreciation and wonder for space like you are a kid again wishing to be an astronaut no matter your current age.… Expand
  41. MK3424
    May 1, 2015
    10
    Been playing it for ages, while most other games will make you lose interest in the game, this will stick harder that super-glue and above all... you like it!
  42. Mavrik
    May 1, 2015
    10
    Kerbal Space Program is one of the most genius, enthralling, satisfying and suspenseful games I have had the pleasure to play. It combines elements of open world sandbox, building, physics, strategy and EXPLOSIONS in perfect harmony like the strings of a finely tuned instrument.

    While exploring the Kerbal solar system, I encounter challenges and hardship as my Kerbonauts and spacecraft    Kerbal Space Program is one of the most genius, enthralling, satisfying and suspenseful games I have had the pleasure to play. It combines elements of open world sandbox, building, physics, strategy and EXPLOSIONS in perfect harmony like the strings of a finely tuned instrument.

    While exploring the Kerbal solar system, I encounter challenges and hardship as my Kerbonauts and spacecraft traverse deeper into space. The tension I felt while landing on the moon for the first time and the satisfaction there after is unmatched by any other computer i have played.

    The games accurate physics lets you take advantage of gravity-assists, aerobraking, and the Oberth effect, which will a necessity for prevailing in more ambiguous endeavors. Building absurd contraptions and exploring the limits and loopholes of the physics is so stimulating.

    Kerbal Space Program tests your perseverance as well as your ingenuity, while sparking your creativity and curiosity.

    It might even teach you a thing or two about rocket science.    … Expand
  43. fixmbr
    May 1, 2015
    10
    I have logged over 1500 hours since update 17.3 over two years ago, and am still playing just as much today. It is impossible to be bored playing KSP. From building a plane to launching a rocket to the depths of outer space and back, everything will have you on the edge of your seat, and have your kerbal astronauts hanging on for dear life. This is probably the best game that I have everI have logged over 1500 hours since update 17.3 over two years ago, and am still playing just as much today. It is impossible to be bored playing KSP. From building a plane to launching a rocket to the depths of outer space and back, everything will have you on the edge of your seat, and have your kerbal astronauts hanging on for dear life. This is probably the best game that I have ever played and more than likely the best you ever will.… Expand
  44. PoopMcDonald
    May 1, 2015
    10
    One of my favorite games, astrodynamics FTW, not only that but also explosions! When I got the game in 2012, The first thing I did was to crash my rocket into the ground (Not intentionally), later of course was to get a rocket to land into the mun, it took me 1 week trying to not crash into the mun, Later I didn't know what to do, and I would quit playing, but later an idea came into myOne of my favorite games, astrodynamics FTW, not only that but also explosions! When I got the game in 2012, The first thing I did was to crash my rocket into the ground (Not intentionally), later of course was to get a rocket to land into the mun, it took me 1 week trying to not crash into the mun, Later I didn't know what to do, and I would quit playing, but later an idea came into my head that I would love to try it out, and most of the time it didn't work, but that didn't stop me cause I just knew it could be done. And I kept playing until new updates came and I saw how the game changed and just new ideas came into my head. I must have spent at least 1000 hours in this game just doing stuff that I knew it could work, when you see this potential of time you realize this game its really what I would call a sandbox, doing things because you want. I can't say that this game is perfect I used to play with mods, BTW the community is awesome, speaking of science in the forums is quite nice, I also got to say that I love science, that's why I am studying a career related with it. Going back to the game the Kerbals are Hilarious, the science mechanics and career mode are quite nice, even tough it could be better, and just because its released doesn't mean it can't have updates, the team is committed into make a nice game. Finally I don't think all people will agree in my position, its not a game for everybody, its quite unique, and because of that I give it a nice score, just because its a really original game that people from all ages like. Hopefully people get inspired from this indie game that deserves a place.… Expand
  45. Toleer
    May 1, 2015
    10
    I have never, ever, played as many hours of a game as I have KSP. From Alpha, into Beta, and now in release, I've racked up more than 500 hours of playing it unmodded, and uncounted hours that weren't tracked by Steam in a modded version. The community for this game is huge, growing, and active, and as it runs on the Unity engine modding is amazingly easy (drag and drop, run the game). NotI have never, ever, played as many hours of a game as I have KSP. From Alpha, into Beta, and now in release, I've racked up more than 500 hours of playing it unmodded, and uncounted hours that weren't tracked by Steam in a modded version. The community for this game is huge, growing, and active, and as it runs on the Unity engine modding is amazingly easy (drag and drop, run the game). Not that it needs mods; the game stands on its own tremendously well.

    That said, it can be a daunting task playing this game: there's a saying in rocket-science that applies to this game very strongly, and that I feel it is important for all new players to remember when they try, fail, try again...

    "If you make it into orbit, you're halfway to everywhere."    … Expand
  46. Naibaki
    May 1, 2015
    10
    A hardcore orbital physics simulator disguised as a casual sandbox rocket-builder. Doesn't handhold and provides a real sense of accomplishment for self-made goals. Hundreds of hours of fun to be had.
  47. JoeJoeJoeJoe
    Apr 30, 2015
    10
    My favorite game since 2012, 1006 hours played, greatly boosted my comprehension of astrodynamics.
    Visited all celestial bodies. Used Hohman transfers, warp engines, Oberth effect, boosters, ion engines, ISRU. Zeppelins, performed rendez-vous, docking.. aero-braking, flew around kerbin, performed aerial acrobatics for fun, landed on top of the buildings.. Designed hundreds of vessels,    My favorite game since 2012, 1006 hours played, greatly boosted my comprehension of astrodynamics.
    Visited all celestial bodies. Used Hohman transfers, warp engines, Oberth effect, boosters, ion engines, ISRU. Zeppelins, performed rendez-vous, docking.. aero-braking, flew around kerbin, performed aerial acrobatics for fun, landed on top of the buildings.. Designed hundreds of vessels, etc.

    I do not see the end of my playing this game anywhere in the near future.    … Expand
  48. Geekzill
    Apr 30, 2015
    10
    This is the game I've wanted ever since I told my mom to write NASA a dirty letter for not inviting me along for the first trip to the moon (I was four at the time).

    The game's not perfect, it has a few WTH level bugs in the 1.0 release, and while the simulation is far more accurate than you'd expect from a game, there are some corners that got cut, such as life support, in the    This is the game I've wanted ever since I told my mom to write NASA a dirty letter for not inviting me along for the first trip to the moon (I was four at the time).

    The game's not perfect, it has a few WTH level bugs in the 1.0 release, and while the simulation is far more accurate than you'd expect from a game, there are some corners that got cut, such as life support, in the interest of keeping the game fun for more normal people.

    It doesn't require a lot of math or science to start, but you will learn orbital mechanics and such along the way. If you've ever had any interest in planning or flying semi-realistic space missions, you should try this game. I'm among those that have played this game for thousands of hours, and I can still find interesting things to do. On the other hand, it doesn't have a campaign, even in career mode you don't get goals forced on you other than "don't go broke."    … Expand
  49. EtherDragon
    Apr 30, 2015
    9
    Introduction
    • Build and fly your own rocket designs in a simulated solar system!
    • Model of Early Access success! • Create and Play game: You create your own rockets and planes, and then you play with them! • Robust simulation with accurate flight sim and space-flight characteristics. • Variety of Game Mode is easy to start enjoying right away. Game Play – SOLID, a solid    Introduction
    • Build and fly your own rocket designs in a simulated solar system!
    • Model of Early Access success!
    • Create and Play game: You create your own rockets and planes, and then you play with them!
    • Robust simulation with accurate flight sim and space-flight characteristics.
    • Variety of Game Mode is easy to start enjoying right away.

    Game Play – SOLID, a solid consistent experience (18/20)
    • Accurate simulation, but not so restrictive it’s impossible to learn. (5/5)
    • Huge variety of building blocks, nearly infinite variety of designs. (5/5)
    • Great variety of game modes. (5/5)
    • Certain game modes have a steep learning curve with little help.
    Also, not clear which one to start with. (3/5)

    Controls – EXCELLENT, but can’t edit in-game (18/20)
    • Customizable controls. Flight stick useful but not required. (5/5)
    • Some minor options missing – can’t change controls in-game. (4/5)
    • Default controls are easy to use, but take a bit of getting used to. (4/5)
    • Construction controls are intuitive, with deep customization. (5/5)

    Challenge Level – HIGH, lacks some guidance (14/20)
    • The challenge level starts at moderate, but fun. (5/5)
    • Learning curve is steep. With frequent road-blocks. (3/5)
    • Good Tutorials overall, sometimes can’t finish for seemingly arbitrary reasons. (3/5)
    • Hard to know what game mode is best to start. (3/5)

    Presentation – SIMPLE IS GOOD (16/20)
    • Ships parts are simple but detailed. Ships can end up being quite detailed! (5/5)
    • KSC Buildings are highly detailed and destructible, but few other buildings to be found. (3/5)
    • Sound is excellent, flight, crashes, explosions, music, and menu blips. (5/5)
    • Atmosphere is well done, but no clouds and water lacks detail. (3/5)

    Unique Elements – ONE OF A KIND (20/20)
    • Build your own Rocket Ships and Planes with a huge variety of parts. (5/5)
    • Fly your own creations to other planets. (5/5)
    • 100% Newtonian Physics! (5/5)
    • It’s Rocket Science Tycoon! (5/5)

    Conclusion: 86/100

    My Recommendations
    • New to KSP? Start with Science Mode.
    • Go through all the tutorials, at least once.    … Expand
  50. Skylord_wolffae
    Apr 30, 2015
    10
    KSP is the sort of game you don't simply "Get in to" nor is it the sort of game that you can just leave alone. The detail and time taken to get the game easy enough to learn and mess around with but realistic enough to make everything feel like an achievement is staggering. The difference between it's current state and that of even the last update (Beta than ever to he full version) isKSP is the sort of game you don't simply "Get in to" nor is it the sort of game that you can just leave alone. The detail and time taken to get the game easy enough to learn and mess around with but realistic enough to make everything feel like an achievement is staggering. The difference between it's current state and that of even the last update (Beta than ever to he full version) is phenomenal and just shows how dedicated the team is. The only fault (as of the time of writing 20:18 GMT 30/4/15) is we are yet to be given the barn.… Expand
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Awards & Rankings

11
#11 Best PC Game of 2011
44
#44 Most Discussed PC Game of 2011
11
#11 Most Shared PC Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
88

Generally favorable reviews - based on 24 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 24 out of 24
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 24
  3. Negative: 0 out of 24
  1. PCWorld
    Jan 20, 2016
    100
    Kerbal Space Program isn't just a fantastic space game. It's one of those games that makes you glad you play on PC, because it could only come to exist on PC.
    Read full review
  2. Power Unlimited
    Jul 24, 2015
    92
    KSP is bloody fantastic! The possibilities are endless and the feeling you get after a successful mission is the best ever. You should probably buy this video game. [Jul 2015, p.063]
  3. LEVEL (Czech Republic)
    Jul 8, 2015
    80
    Neither for the impatient, nor for absolute purists this simulation although focuses to the latter significantly more. When your game is supported by NASA itself, you are just doing something exceptionally well. [Issue#253]
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