SpaceChem

 PC
User Score
8.4

Generally favorable reviews- based on 177 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 145 out of 177
  2. Mixed: 21 out of 177
  3. Negative: 11 out of 177

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  1. Mavi
    Jan 4, 2012
    10
    When I first started the game, I didn't expect much fun, but after 30 minutes playing, when I got used to all the game mechanics, the game caught me! I am not much into the logic puzzle games, but this one, this one is masterpiece. It's not that much puzzle, more like.. "programming" in a graphic interface. And it's a lot about optimization (so the elements doesn't collide with each otherWhen I first started the game, I didn't expect much fun, but after 30 minutes playing, when I got used to all the game mechanics, the game caught me! I am not much into the logic puzzle games, but this one, this one is masterpiece. It's not that much puzzle, more like.. "programming" in a graphic interface. And it's a lot about optimization (so the elements doesn't collide with each other and so on) Too bad people give it 0 points just because they were too lazy to think about what to do in the game. For me, it's 10/10 and a must buy for it's price.… Expand
  2. ludd_gang
    Jun 2, 2011
    10
    Amazing puzzler. Discover your own solution. Completing a level is a challenge, perfecting your designs for speed and efficiency adds replay.The tutorial instructions are a bear, but with a bit of experimentation and rereading, it makes sense. Stick with it and you will love it. I haven't read a wink of the story. NOTE: You can delete entire areas if you click drag a selection box andAmazing puzzler. Discover your own solution. Completing a level is a challenge, perfecting your designs for speed and efficiency adds replay.The tutorial instructions are a bear, but with a bit of experimentation and rereading, it makes sense. Stick with it and you will love it. I haven't read a wink of the story. NOTE: You can delete entire areas if you click drag a selection box and press delete. (Since Mortlach mentioned this as a flaw, I wanted to clarify you can erase entire boards easily.)… Expand
  3. femtoRgon
    Oct 5, 2011
    10
    Reasonably simple basic play constraints build very effectively into positively prodigious challenges as the game progresses. The game introduces new concepts and increasing complexity smoothly enough to prevent being overwhelming, but quickly enough to maintain a solid challenge, rather than boring with many over-cautious repetitions of similar difficulty.. It's a fine balance thatReasonably simple basic play constraints build very effectively into positively prodigious challenges as the game progresses. The game introduces new concepts and increasing complexity smoothly enough to prevent being overwhelming, but quickly enough to maintain a solid challenge, rather than boring with many over-cautious repetitions of similar difficulty.. It's a fine balance that Zachtronics has hit very nicely. Especially later in the game, the puzzles become positively mind-bending in the level of challenge, and the complexity that your solutions will inevitably incorporate.
    The little, largely textual vignettes between missions is a nice bit of flavor, go a long way toward making the game feel more complete (than Zachtronics previous games, particularly). They are well written and interesting, and are actually pretty effective at bringing you into the game world, which is pleasantly surprising for a game of this type.
    The consistently added Science Net puzzles provide regular new challenges, often introducing new twists on the previously introduced puzzle elements, and the main game provides many, many hours challenging fun on it's own, so they plenty to hold interest for quite a while.    … Expand
  4. Stormblazer
    May 16, 2011
    10
    I'm a computer science student, and people have often wondered why I enjoy coding so much - well, SpaceChem is a good example. It's not really analogous to coding, but it has the same mental effect, uses the same parts of my mind that coding does.
    This is easily one of the best, and legitimately difficult puzzle games I've ever played.
  5. Doniazade
    May 21, 2011
    10
    Absolutely amazing puzzler. If you enjoy puzzle games, get this. It's puzzle pornography and will keep you hooked for quite a while - assuming you can hack the difficulty. This game gets extremely challenging later on. At 15 euros, it's a steal.
  6. JonesR
    May 18, 2011
    10
    The level of difficulty on this game is sick! It starts out fairly easy, but it gets hard fast. Seriously, your brain will start to hurt with infinite ways to solve each puzzle as you ponder how to design a more efficient solution. One-click YouTube upload for easy solution sharing. Such a simple concept, yet so much innovation in this absolute must-have indie gem--so addicting.
  7. xepherys
    Oct 6, 2011
    10
    I've been playing this before it was available on Steam. Still play it today. it's a fantastic puzzler with great mechanics and an addictive aspect of one-uping yourself and other engineers. For the guy who "looked at pictures" and decided it sucked... well, that's an obvious situation. Worth it for full price, let alone included in a Humble Bundle.
  8. jenobi
    Mar 21, 2011
    10
    SpaceChem has been one of the most fulfilling puzzle games I have ever played. On more than one occasion I've been completely stumped by a solution, stumble off to bed, and dreamed of reactor errors only to sit down at my computer to find the solution in fifteen minutes the next morning. I've been challenged by many puzzle games in the past, but from their very design if I was stuck thereSpaceChem has been one of the most fulfilling puzzle games I have ever played. On more than one occasion I've been completely stumped by a solution, stumble off to bed, and dreamed of reactor errors only to sit down at my computer to find the solution in fifteen minutes the next morning. I've been challenged by many puzzle games in the past, but from their very design if I was stuck there was no working around the problem. In a way, they were simply to simplistic. But while playing SpaceChem, when I hit a wall and could not find a solution 9 times out of 10 I just had to step away and let my subconscious workout the problem. While playing SpaceChem I have been pushed past my previous limits for puzzle solving and have come out the other side with a better appreciation of what a good puzzle game could, and should be.… Expand
  9. JTeagle
    Apr 1, 2011
    10
    I tire of games that are all about killing, or mind-numbing match-3 games. SpaceChem is fairly original, but most importantly, it's different from 99 out of 100 games coming out today. It starts out easy to get you used to how it works, but doesn't take long to start challenging you. As others have said, what seems impossible at first ("Surely it can't do that *and* that?" - oh yes itI tire of games that are all about killing, or mind-numbing match-3 games. SpaceChem is fairly original, but most importantly, it's different from 99 out of 100 games coming out today. It starts out easy to get you used to how it works, but doesn't take long to start challenging you. As others have said, what seems impossible at first ("Surely it can't do that *and* that?" - oh yes it can!) eventually comes floating to your head after a good break. I *love* this game! Gfx and sound are basic, but gameplay is what counts.… Expand
  10. Whirbl
    May 11, 2011
    10
    This indie title is simply designed, but highly complex, and can keep you interested for hours on end. You may even spend an hour or two on many of the stages. There's a lot of tweaking involved here. Though it may seem a bit trial and error, you really have to spend quite a bit of time thinking of your plan before you begin combining elements. Once you've got a workable method, it's downThis indie title is simply designed, but highly complex, and can keep you interested for hours on end. You may even spend an hour or two on many of the stages. There's a lot of tweaking involved here. Though it may seem a bit trial and error, you really have to spend quite a bit of time thinking of your plan before you begin combining elements. Once you've got a workable method, it's down to the tweaking of timing and orientation of your molecules. This game will keep even the best puzzle lovers going for hours on end.… Expand
  11. vorpalsponge
    Jul 6, 2011
    10
    The best puzzle game I have ever played.

    The puzzles are very open ended, have many solutions, and many different obstacles and tools at your disposal all oriented around chemistry theme of making and breaking chemical bonds and molecules.
  12. Keromyaou
    Jun 22, 2012
    10
    I like puzzle games. But this one is the best puzzle game that I have ever played so far. The game is very challenging but yet very rewarding. The main concept of the game is to find solutions to generate certain chemical compounds from material compounds. For this purpose you have several operation commands. You combine these commands on the board to achieve the purpose, which is toI like puzzle games. But this one is the best puzzle game that I have ever played so far. The game is very challenging but yet very rewarding. The main concept of the game is to find solutions to generate certain chemical compounds from material compounds. For this purpose you have several operation commands. You combine these commands on the board to achieve the purpose, which is to generate certain chemical compounds. Once in a while you really need to be very innovative to find solutions. In some puzzles just finding out the solution to produce target compounds is not enough. In this case you need to find solutions to produce the compounds efficient and fast enough to achieve the goal. You really need to think about many perspectives of operations. Efficiency is one thing. Another important thing is stoichiometry. There are 12 challenges which demand you to find solutions under restrictive conditions. This is a very nice idea since it encourages you to find better solutions. It took me about 200 hrs to beat this game including the challenges. For me this is a good indication that this game is hard since It took me about 100 hrs to beat Puzzle Dimension, another challenging game, to score over 50000. The price is cheap ($9.99). You can get it either DRM free version from GOG.com or steam version.… Expand
  13. Slothsberry
    Jul 1, 2011
    10
    SpaceChem is one of the most innovative and enjoyable puzzle games to be released in recent memory. The mechanics are remarkably simple, allowing you to become familiar with the mechanics almost immediately. On the other hand, the difficulty ramps up deliciously fairly quickly after you get comfy with the mechanics. Unlike most other worthwhile puzzlers, solving each stage is an exerciseSpaceChem is one of the most innovative and enjoyable puzzle games to be released in recent memory. The mechanics are remarkably simple, allowing you to become familiar with the mechanics almost immediately. On the other hand, the difficulty ramps up deliciously fairly quickly after you get comfy with the mechanics. Unlike most other worthwhile puzzlers, solving each stage is an exercise in creation, and not just a glorified corridor with various dead ends along the way. This isn't a game where you simply poke and prod around the puzzle until you find the solution that the designer wanted you to find, you plan and create your solution yourself.

    Play this game for a few minutes, and if you're the kind of person who loves a challenge, you'll be hooked.    … Expand
  14. Jar_On
    Aug 28, 2011
    10
    SpaceChem is a puzzle game of engineering and mock molecular chemistry (and frustration). There are no graphics to speak of, only a functional display of your "program" (the same level of clarity and, at the same time, lack of transparency as achieved by the roguelike games via the use of ASCII). There is no time limit, the only enemy is your brain... there is only the need to take two (orSpaceChem is a puzzle game of engineering and mock molecular chemistry (and frustration). There are no graphics to speak of, only a functional display of your "program" (the same level of clarity and, at the same time, lack of transparency as achieved by the roguelike games via the use of ASCII). There is no time limit, the only enemy is your brain... there is only the need to take two (or more) molecules and transmognify them into something else that is needed. While there are no "correct" answers, your alchemical Rube Goldberg machine will be compared to all the other solutions to a given level (the game even gives possibility of uploading solutions to youtube to boost your internet ego).
    The learning curve is wonderfully crafted although the caveat is that it apparently does not end and will drive you, eventually, bonkers.
    The core gameplay is brilliant and accompanied by truly fantastic music.
    At higher levels it becomes devilishly difficult.
    I love it.
    Sidenote: Due to its open nature SpaceChem has quite an absurd replay value. Revisiting old designs to make them a few 'cycles' faster or even spending time on youtube looking at crazy things that people have devised refuses to get old. The best game in years.    … Expand
  15. iteration2
    Apr 12, 2012
    10
    SpaceChem is a game that will make you feel either really dumb or really smart, largely depending on whether you're just starting out or just completing any given level (also, it helps to actually be smart). Unlike many puzzle games, there are no pre-determined solutions, which I find appealing, but many others may find bewildering. Also unlike many games, there is virtually no timing orSpaceChem is a game that will make you feel either really dumb or really smart, largely depending on whether you're just starting out or just completing any given level (also, it helps to actually be smart). Unlike many puzzle games, there are no pre-determined solutions, which I find appealing, but many others may find bewildering. Also unlike many games, there is virtually no timing or reflex actions required, so you can take your time (and you'll need it) engineering clever solutions to the problems presented.

    Graphics/story: Nothing special, but they get the job done. The storyline is depicted through periodic illustrations, and while it adds some subtext to the game, it's largely irrelevant to the actual gameplay.

    Interface: Very clean. There isn't really anything on the screen that doesn't need to be there. Much of the game revolves around placing symbols on a grid, which can be done via drag/drop or by holding hotkeys while clicking. Every action you take has a satisfying click, and every level has infinite undoes/redoes (which remain even after quitting/restarting).

    Music: This is a game in which you can spend hours staring in consternation at a grid full of symbols and little circles following a spaghetti-like tangle of lines in order to re-arrange atoms to form different molecules. The soundtrack actually makes this activity feel heroic and exciting. It is so successful, IMO, that I often found that an elusive solution would come to me only when the background music changed and I was inspired to consider a previously untried approach.

    Re-playability: Most will never need to replay this game, because only about 2% are able to finish it. And only 6 people (last I checked) have finished every one of the user submitted levels. However, after solving a level, you're shown a graph which compares your solution (based on a few parameters) to all the other solutions that came before yours. For some, just completing a level may be good enough, but many will see how they compare to others and be motivated to revisit and optimize their solutions.

    SpaceChem certainly is not for everyone. If you are easily frustrated, not interested in deliberative problem solving, or just not the sharpest knife in the drawer, avoid this game. If you have ever enjoyed programming a computer, this is the game for you.    … Expand
  16. loungegecko
    Jan 30, 2012
    10
    I reviewed this game at a 5 earlier, but I've changed it to a ten. Why? Because I figured it out. I finally get this game, and wow, what a thrill! Spacechem is the most entertaining puzzle game that I've ever played. It's intense, tremendously fun, and (most of all) challenging. When you figure a puzzle out in it, you just feel good. I can proudly say that not only do I get this game, butI reviewed this game at a 5 earlier, but I've changed it to a ten. Why? Because I figured it out. I finally get this game, and wow, what a thrill! Spacechem is the most entertaining puzzle game that I've ever played. It's intense, tremendously fun, and (most of all) challenging. When you figure a puzzle out in it, you just feel good. I can proudly say that not only do I get this game, but that it ranks in my top 10 PC games of all time. Worth the small price. Don't wait. Get Spacechem.… Expand
  17. Mcintosh
    Apr 27, 2012
    10
    Calling neurons to a reunion, this game is probably the most challenging puzzle game i've played. Not only because finding a solution is sometimes a labor of love, but also, when u do find one u really wish to make a better one. Don't let the idea of chemistry fool you (since you don't need it), it could have been train tracks for all i care, it's the depth of creativity and ingenuity ofCalling neurons to a reunion, this game is probably the most challenging puzzle game i've played. Not only because finding a solution is sometimes a labor of love, but also, when u do find one u really wish to make a better one. Don't let the idea of chemistry fool you (since you don't need it), it could have been train tracks for all i care, it's the depth of creativity and ingenuity of your own mind what makes it so fun. If i may create a not so accurate comparison, i would recommend people that like minecraft because of the creation of redstone artifacts to try it out immediately, not because its similar or has the same elements.. but because it engages on that creativity that makes synapse juice flow... and some people really love that feeling! I promise you will eventually find that emotion if you stay past the first levels.… Expand
  18. Grandao
    May 28, 2012
    10
    Con una dificultad creciente y enfermiza es capaz de tenerte horas y horas jugando sin encontrar una solucion, pero el placer que obtienes al resolver un puzzle es indescriptible.

    Muy imaginativo y recomendable para aquellos que tengan paciencia.
  19. nomemory
    Nov 29, 2012
    10
    This game is a very original puzzle game. You are required to think and to be original. As you progress, the puzzles will become significantly harder, and you will invest more time in order to finish them. 10/10.
  20. Lontra
    Jun 13, 2012
    10
    this game is phenomenal! There aren't a lot of game out there that really challenge you to think and this game with it's simple design keeps me engaged even after I've turned it off. There is always room to refine your play and the difficulty will not disappoint.
  21. ImOnFire
    Dec 2, 2012
    10
    The best puzzle game of all time, but you gotta have time and patience because it does require a lot of effort to become good at and yes, the learning curve is huge. I found the story enjoyable and creative. The sound track fits very well too. I can only give it a perfect 10,
  22. Phitt
    Jun 6, 2013
    10
    SpaceChem is a puzzle game where you have to connect atoms inside a reactor to form molecules. Sounds boring? It is not. In fact it is probably the best puzzle game I've ever played. The game mechanics are absolutely flawless in my opinion, the puzzles can be solved in many different ways while they're still incredibly challenging at the same time. it is extremely satisfying to watch aSpaceChem is a puzzle game where you have to connect atoms inside a reactor to form molecules. Sounds boring? It is not. In fact it is probably the best puzzle game I've ever played. The game mechanics are absolutely flawless in my opinion, the puzzles can be solved in many different ways while they're still incredibly challenging at the same time. it is extremely satisfying to watch a clean reactor setup at work. Sometimes after I'm done with a level I don't immediately use the fast forward function simply because it feels so good to just watch the waldos (containers you control that move atoms and molecules around) at work. I also think that this game would be worse with better graphics. Yes, now I said it. It is complicated enough as it is, flashy effects and colorful 3D objects moving around would be an annoying distraction and nothing else. If you like good puzzle games you just have to check it out. Now I understand why the creator of this game stopped working on Minecraft (which was his idea, he made Infiniminer) and worked on this game instead. Pure genius, this should have sold a few million times and not Minecraft. Highly recommended, don't get fooled by rather ugly screenshots or boring gameplay descriptions.… Expand
  23. xXalaXx
    Mar 19, 2013
    10
    This game is gem on its own. One of the best puzzle games out there. Spent more than 120 hours and still enjoying the game. This game is for hardcore puzzle lovers!
  24. reinderien
    Apr 30, 2013
    10
    This has a very tangible appeal to programmers, or simply those who have an analytical mind. It has a very well-tuned difficulty ramp, so that the puzzles become fiendishly difficult, but deliver an incomparable sense of accomplishment when you complete them (especially if you out-optimize your fellow gamers). The writing is good but unintrusive; the soundtrack is quite good consideringThis has a very tangible appeal to programmers, or simply those who have an analytical mind. It has a very well-tuned difficulty ramp, so that the puzzles become fiendishly difficult, but deliver an incomparable sense of accomplishment when you complete them (especially if you out-optimize your fellow gamers). The writing is good but unintrusive; the soundtrack is quite good considering that this is a smaller indie game; and in general this thing will give your brain a serious workout if you have the dedication.… Expand
  25. Oxygenarian
    Sep 19, 2013
    10
    Splendid puzzle game, one of a kind, definitely worth it provided that you are a puzzle gamer. The game offers a challenging and enticing learning curve, and the gameplay of continuously improving your design is definitely addicting. It is a little bit difficult and hardcore compared to most casual puzzles, but if you don't mind extracting some brain juice, you'll definitely love it.
  26. anichels
    Jan 1, 2016
    10
    Absolutely fantastic game.
    Can be frustrating to play, but only because it challenges the player.
    Very nice learning curve to start you off.
    Best $1.09 CDN I ever spent!
  27. Celebrin
    Feb 19, 2015
    10
    Whell perhaps its because i like how puzzles line up and groups into patterns and have spent too much time in games like factorio, simutrans and TTD I just cant seem to stop playing this one, getting all my contructions to max efficiency :), the sharing solution videos on yuotube addon is awesome and I tip my hat to all yuou awesome inventors of smart soultions. I must say that this gameWhell perhaps its because i like how puzzles line up and groups into patterns and have spent too much time in games like factorio, simutrans and TTD I just cant seem to stop playing this one, getting all my contructions to max efficiency :), the sharing solution videos on yuotube addon is awesome and I tip my hat to all yuou awesome inventors of smart soultions. I must say that this game can be a bit hard so perhaps not for the faint of heart ^^

    Cheers Zachtronics! give us more!    … Expand
  28. log_runner
    Apr 4, 2015
    10
    The game has a very simple design, but he levels become incredibly hard later on. It's not a game you can play for hours on end, or at least later on, because each level takes so long to come up with a solution and you will get stuck so you need some downtime to maybe think about your solution.
  29. Cheshyr
    May 14, 2011
    9
    An amazing Sandbox Puzzle Game. It is challenging without restricting your creativity. Any solution that works is valid; you are not held to contrived expectations. However, the problems can be difficult on their own, given the tools you have available. Steep learning curve, non-trivial puzzles, and a wonderful sense of accomplishment when you make it work. The storyline isAn amazing Sandbox Puzzle Game. It is challenging without restricting your creativity. Any solution that works is valid; you are not held to contrived expectations. However, the problems can be difficult on their own, given the tools you have available. Steep learning curve, non-trivial puzzles, and a wonderful sense of accomplishment when you make it work. The storyline is entertaining, and adds to the game. My only complaint is the music. While the soundtrack is excellent, it does not fit the mood of the game. Highly recommend this game.… Expand
  30. elpitaya
    Jul 3, 2011
    9
    Amazing indie game, chemistry have never been this fun! Make reactions, bond and unbond atoms, this game is a challenge, It has puzzles that may take over hours to solve but they are worth them!
    This game is awesome, also it has a nice soundtrack!
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Awards & Rankings

21
#21 Best PC Game of 2011
86
#86 Most Discussed PC Game of 2011
66
#66 Most Shared PC Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 13 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 11 out of 13
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 13
  3. Negative: 0 out of 13
  1. Everyeye.it
    Sep 7, 2011
    90
    Due to its extreme complexity, SpaceChem will never be a title for everyone. Too deep and articulate for casual players, it will be appreciated only by those who are willing to engage themselves with the deep game mechanics Nevertheless Spece chem is no doubt one of the most brilliant puzzle game in the history of videogames.
    Read full review
  2. GamingXP
    Aug 2, 2011
    83
    Chemistry never was that entertaining.
    Read full review
  3. PC PowerPlay
    Mar 31, 2011
    80
    OCD-fuelling obsession for some, brain-melting difficulty for others. Choose, and perish. [Apr 2011, p.70]
See all critic reviews »