Spore

 PC
User Score
5.8

Mixed or average reviews- based on 2110 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 885 out of 2110
  2. Mixed: 446 out of 2110
  3. Negative: 779 out of 2110
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  1. KrisKras
    Sep 10, 2008
    0
    It's a big disappointment, the game is to easy, to short, almost zero replay factor. I always have a choice between playing music or attacking others, wow! And when creator stops increasing any stats (in civilization phase) it becomes just a handicap.
  2. AndreasK.
    Sep 10, 2008
    8
    As long as you see Spore for what it is and not for what you wanted it to be (in which case you will naturally be disappointed), you will find a very good and entertaining game. However, this game actually requires the player to PLAY, a thing a lot of people can't cope with. It's like a box of LEGO blocks. If you have no fantasy and imagination whatsoever, then you will As long as you see Spore for what it is and not for what you wanted it to be (in which case you will naturally be disappointed), you will find a very good and entertaining game. However, this game actually requires the player to PLAY, a thing a lot of people can't cope with. It's like a box of LEGO blocks. If you have no fantasy and imagination whatsoever, then you will naturally find the "gameplay" with them shallow and boring.… Expand
  3. PeteS.
    Sep 10, 2008
    1
    I installed it on my new vista computer, but it wouldn't run, thinking it was a configuration error of my box I tried it on my brother's computer and it didn't work there either. Luckily I have an old XP comp that my mom uses for email and surfing the web so I checked it on that one, and there it worked (kind of, it crashed because of the old old drivers on there, and the I installed it on my new vista computer, but it wouldn't run, thinking it was a configuration error of my box I tried it on my brother's computer and it didn't work there either. Luckily I have an old XP comp that my mom uses for email and surfing the web so I checked it on that one, and there it worked (kind of, it crashed because of the old old drivers on there, and the gfx card isn't up to the job really) So, anyway I got some help to fix my computer, seems I had to replace my motherboard as it was destroying the memory sticks (same for my bro), I'm not going to mention any brands but I'm never going to buy one from those guys again! Anyway, so now I was going to install the game and play finally, and it won't run! Says something about max installs and verification and whatnot. I went back to the store and they wouldn't switch it for another copy because I "had used all my installs"! What?… Expand
  4. LoBiN.
    Sep 10, 2008
    1
    Who wants to have to com with authentication server everytime you want to play and once the drm gets hacked how many legit users will get locked out because the authentication servers cant really tell it just goes on errors (any errors!).
  5. allane.
    Sep 10, 2008
    1
    Because of the DRM this game will not make it to my pc, which is a real shame because i think as a game it would be really lots of fun but I refuse to support any product that has DRM software attached. If someone can code a hax to remove the DRM then I would love to try it.
  6. SteveH.
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    Unimaginably horrible. With a DRM scheme that limits you to three activations. Stupid, repetitive and simplistic gameplay reminiscent of Black & White. What is there to like? What a load of crap. Very disappointed, I expected so much more.
  7. JackR.
    Sep 9, 2008
    2
    I have to agree with the consensus. This game sucks. I can't believe the arrogance of releasing a PC game in 2008 with WASD controls that does NOT let you reconfigure the keys and does NOT provide an invert mouse option. The control scheme is horrible and I spent all my time just trying to unintuitively learn how to move while being killed. What a stupid, stupid game.
  8. dereckd.
    Sep 9, 2008
    7
    This game has a great premise, however, the controls are a bit difficult to manage, especially during the space again. Worth playing if you are a fan of Will Wright.
  9. haukev.
    Sep 9, 2008
    9
    Creativity is a strange thing. it hit´s us in the most unexpected moments.we can´t control it....or....? Spore is a game that provoces creativity.You play with it and you are forced to be creative.like lego. learning to create and having a sensation of success is an incredible experience -. rarely found in pc-games. this is an solid game, made out of an brilliant idea : make Creativity is a strange thing. it hit´s us in the most unexpected moments.we can´t control it....or....? Spore is a game that provoces creativity.You play with it and you are forced to be creative.like lego. learning to create and having a sensation of success is an incredible experience -. rarely found in pc-games. this is an solid game, made out of an brilliant idea : make the player part of the game. ( one remark for the developers : iI bought SPORE for 59.90 euros and was not even able to install the game. i just copied the content to my hard disk and run it like that without any instalation. but beside that "little" problems : best game ever.… Expand
  10. DarrenS.
    Sep 9, 2008
    3
    Fun for couple hours, okay for a couple more, then tedium.
  11. burrkw.
    Sep 9, 2008
    0
    An all around disappointment. the core of the game is the editor where you design things, instead of actually playing the game.
  12. FredM.
    Sep 9, 2008
    4
    A game 4 years in the making should have a little more than some fancy programming. Not only does it lack a good AI engine, but the entire game can be "beaten" in two good days of playing. Of course the game can't really be beaten. One of the features of the game is the thousands and thousands of star systems you can visit. However the space stage lacks the UI to make it plesant. As A game 4 years in the making should have a little more than some fancy programming. Not only does it lack a good AI engine, but the entire game can be "beaten" in two good days of playing. Of course the game can't really be beaten. One of the features of the game is the thousands and thousands of star systems you can visit. However the space stage lacks the UI to make it plesant. As a space game I would much prefer "Sins of a Solar Empire." A game with an innovative UI and enough gameplay to keep you busy. So even if you like the creature, tribal, or civ stages of spore, you get less than about 8 hours of total gameplay for those stages all together. you CAN keep playing those stages before choosing to evolve. BUT the game doesn't make it rewarding enough to spend any more time than you have to. I could keep going. But I'm sad I waited so long for this. I'm gonna per-order that new star wars game though. At least that has the Euphoria engine.… Expand
  13. RichardO.
    Sep 9, 2008
    7
    This game shouts Medicore all the way. Every game part before the space just seems to end too quick, whats the point getting bigger and better if there isnt anything fun to do with it. The space part just is too hectic. Idea that you have to zap around your empire after every little fight robbers etc are causing is just so flawed. Doing every single thing yourself just leads to that its This game shouts Medicore all the way. Every game part before the space just seems to end too quick, whats the point getting bigger and better if there isnt anything fun to do with it. The space part just is too hectic. Idea that you have to zap around your empire after every little fight robbers etc are causing is just so flawed. Doing every single thing yourself just leads to that its the ONLY thing you will have time to do. well, at least 80% of the game. Summary: Flawed design ruins a good idea.… Expand
  14. TristanH.
    Sep 9, 2008
    4
    I wanted to give this a good review, I really did. First two stages are good but dumbed down to insane levels, and every stage after is boring repetitive and extremely shallow. I am completely let down. I loved what i saw in previews and gameplay videos and this is what I'm left with. Also the ultra strict DRM if a filthy way to spy on customers and gives you a maximum of only three I wanted to give this a good review, I really did. First two stages are good but dumbed down to insane levels, and every stage after is boring repetitive and extremely shallow. I am completely let down. I loved what i saw in previews and gameplay videos and this is what I'm left with. Also the ultra strict DRM if a filthy way to spy on customers and gives you a maximum of only three installs, which is stupid considering how much people need to re-format etc. these days with crappy Vista breaking all the time. EA's greed has gone too far this time. Aside from the amazing creation system I struggle to see why the game took so long to be made. Both companies should be ashamed.… Expand
  15. ThomasG.
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    It looks nice but is only fun for small children - not what I was promised; many features missing.
  16. JamesKlagston
    Sep 9, 2008
    2
    Each stage of the game is boring.
  17. RoH
    Sep 9, 2008
    0
    Finding out about the Drm and only getting 3 installs after I paid for the game killed any fun I could have had with it. I think I'll go reinstall Warcraft3 for the 100th time and play that. Good story. Good Graphics. and worth the money I paid for it.
  18. philg.
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    This game installed a rootkit on my harddrive and i can't get rid of it, it only allows 3 installs so good luck to any gamer who regularly reinstalls their OS
  19. KatieO
    Sep 9, 2008
    8
    I have to admit, I haven't quite gotten to the space age level yet, but overall Spore is a good time. It doesn't quite live up to my expectations--designing the creatures and building is definitely awesome, and fully up to my expectations, but the game play is not. Designing is entertaining, and actually involves critical thinking. But some of the actual gaming--the tribal stage I have to admit, I haven't quite gotten to the space age level yet, but overall Spore is a good time. It doesn't quite live up to my expectations--designing the creatures and building is definitely awesome, and fully up to my expectations, but the game play is not. Designing is entertaining, and actually involves critical thinking. But some of the actual gaming--the tribal stage especially--feel more Reader Rabbit than Civilization.… Expand
  20. RichardS
    Sep 9, 2008
    7
    The first few phases up to the civilization stage are quite fun in their simplicity. However, the civilization and space stage I found to be disappointing in their depth and often quite uninteresting. I spent 2 hours taking over star systems with no real benefit or reason. I have no idea as to what the point is to taking over the entire spore universe is, and I won't spend 100+ hours The first few phases up to the civilization stage are quite fun in their simplicity. However, the civilization and space stage I found to be disappointing in their depth and often quite uninteresting. I spent 2 hours taking over star systems with no real benefit or reason. I have no idea as to what the point is to taking over the entire spore universe is, and I won't spend 100+ hours to find out. I experienced a glitch with the tribal stage where a large rip in the land (a kind of mini sharp valley), went right through my tribe's centre. When the creatures were in line to to eat or deposit food and it was their turn while they were turning to get to the storage every 2/3 times they would begin to spasm left and right until I manually had to move them away and back in line for food again. It wasn't fun and felt broken. Those large gullies in the landscape were very common throughout the game and ugly to encounter. The creature designer and object designer is very well made and intuitive. However the 2 last stages left a lot to be desired and Maxis would really do well with a content patch or expansion.… Expand
  21. AnthonyAnthony
    Sep 9, 2008
    4
    When it comes to visuals this game is amazing! The problem is that it starts and ends there. This game is in no way a good game, in fact as a game its pretty mediocre. The game play is just not there. I got maybe 16 hours of game play and not that was not even good. The first stage is everything I expected but nothing more. They actually do a decent job from keeping the first few stages When it comes to visuals this game is amazing! The problem is that it starts and ends there. This game is in no way a good game, in fact as a game its pretty mediocre. The game play is just not there. I got maybe 16 hours of game play and not that was not even good. The first stage is everything I expected but nothing more. They actually do a decent job from keeping the first few stages from getting to repetitive. Once you pass that though the game is boring. Its just the same actions over and over and over again. There is no depth to the game in anyways and really is only good to kill some time much like a flash game you would play at work. There is no reason to pay $60 for this game. Maybe spore two will be better.… Expand
  22. LynnD.
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    The DRM this game uses makes the game worthless to me. I can only install on 3 machines for the whole life of the game. If i make a call to EA I will have to provide proof of purchase to get another activation after 3. Ridiculous.
  23. Tenfyr
    Sep 9, 2008
    2
    Once I got passed the issues getting this game to actually start on my PC (I had to install it 4 times before I could launch the game) it was fun at first as I found each stage rich in innovation but thin on gameplay, making this something I will only play for a short time then never pick up again. If I could log into the EA server to experience other users creations this might have more Once I got passed the issues getting this game to actually start on my PC (I had to install it 4 times before I could launch the game) it was fun at first as I found each stage rich in innovation but thin on gameplay, making this something I will only play for a short time then never pick up again. If I could log into the EA server to experience other users creations this might have more replay value but sadly this feature seems very broken at the moment and there is no indication of when it will be fixed. No doubt it will be at the point where I've forgotten it ever existed.… Expand
  24. JamesO.
    Sep 9, 2008
    5
    Tries to be everything thus being pretty average overall. Not a bad game but not a good game either.
  25. SeedeeV.
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    DRM on my PC version makes this game an expensive rental. Ease of use, mobility, etc., is a large part of any gaming experience. Mess with the "value" of the game and it deserves a low score.
  26. JaquierJ.
    Sep 9, 2008
    0
    Clearly EA just doesn't get it. A perfectly good game can be absolutely destroyed if they use an out of date, and completely useless, not to mention often unstable and harmful DRM. Get with the picture. This had the potential to be a brilliant game, but EA got greedy and decided to screw the honest consumer.
  27. Vincec
    Sep 9, 2008
    0
    The DRM is terrible and the game a sprawling bore. Several distinct game modes but all but the last one are utterly uninteresting.
  28. LawrenceW.
    Sep 9, 2008
    9
    If you like games about evolution, modding, empire building and Sid Meires Pirates! ... get this! I'm very pleased with it. The problem at first was there was so much hype, and some aspects of the game seemed kind of crude. I enjoyed all the stages in the end but especially the galaxy stage because it reminds me of one of my favourite games: Sid Meires Pirates! Above all it's If you like games about evolution, modding, empire building and Sid Meires Pirates! ... get this! I'm very pleased with it. The problem at first was there was so much hype, and some aspects of the game seemed kind of crude. I enjoyed all the stages in the end but especially the galaxy stage because it reminds me of one of my favourite games: Sid Meires Pirates! Above all it's the a game about modding and player created content, it's highly original and has lots of charm.… Expand
  29. AlB.
    Sep 9, 2008
    9
    Groundbreaking science game. The detail is outstanding. Wish for better controls, custom options and multiple save files. DRM sucks.
  30. JoelL.
    Sep 9, 2008
    9
    Great piece of software. Think along the lines of SimCity and it is great. Think along the lines of Civ or any other more traditional "game" and you'll be disappointed.
  31. KL
    Sep 9, 2008
    6
    This game is pretty bad in my opinion. Everything preceding the space stage took around 2 and a half hours to play. Beyond that, the heavily promoted space phase isn't even that impressive. First, there is no seamless transition to the planet stage like there is in Sins of a Solar Empire. Second, terraforming is an arduous affair, where you have to randomly sprinkle plants and This game is pretty bad in my opinion. Everything preceding the space stage took around 2 and a half hours to play. Beyond that, the heavily promoted space phase isn't even that impressive. First, there is no seamless transition to the planet stage like there is in Sins of a Solar Empire. Second, terraforming is an arduous affair, where you have to randomly sprinkle plants and animals on the planet. Third, the missions are pointless and tedious, with most missions requiring you to find something on the planet surface. This is reminiscent of the planet roving on mass effect, albeit worse because now you have a time limit. This was a disappointing game. I suspect they implemented the 3 install DRM because it sucks so badly people will want to sell it off quickly.… Expand
  32. TA
    Sep 9, 2008
    10
    For the initial release this game is amazing. Just remember its a PC game so massive patches creating more complex game play are coming. For its original concept and process it deserves a 10.
  33. DominickM.
    Sep 9, 2008
    4
    Big disappointment. Game is too easy and gameplay feels repetitive. Quite frankly, not that fun. The horrible DRM doesn't help matters, but I'm not even going to let that influence my vote. The problem with this game isn't the DRM, it is the game itself. Promise too much, deliver too little.
  34. spores.
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    This game could be ok, but i don't want to install another copy protection driver that will mess with my computer, i am sick of reinstalls.
  35. MichaelR.
    Sep 9, 2008
    5
    Each evolutionary stage is woefully underdeveloped. This feels like 5 cheap free flash games strung together in a day. What an incredible disappointment.
  36. JimW.
    Sep 9, 2008
    4
    This is not very deep as far as a game goes. It may be fun for pre-teens and maybe even teens but any adult gamer will lose interest fast. I also disliked the DRM which prevents more than 3 installs...ever. I am tired of paying customers being treated like criminals.
  37. John
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    There was no warning of any rootkit DRM during installation. Only after installing the game and looking on the internet for any fansites did i find out about these "features". Trust me that next time i wont be so quickly to buy games when they are firstly released. You can better wait untill the first reviews come in to see whether the game will wreck your pc or not ... Why couldn't There was no warning of any rootkit DRM during installation. Only after installing the game and looking on the internet for any fansites did i find out about these "features". Trust me that next time i wont be so quickly to buy games when they are firstly released. You can better wait untill the first reviews come in to see whether the game will wreck your pc or not ... Why couldn't they just use the (valve) steam system for activation instead of illegal privacy invading rootkits.… Expand
  38. SamI.
    Sep 9, 2008
    10
    Get over all the DRM gripes...the game itself is incredibly fun and innovative.
  39. sandraD.
    Sep 9, 2008
    5
    Well its fun at the beginning, everything is new and cool and you waited sooo long for this game. Tell you what, I play lots of games, I've played spore for two and I'm already fed up with it. I've given a 5 just cuz the people of maxis worked hard on it but sorry guys you can't beat your own sims.
  40. ApuN.
    Sep 9, 2008
    10
    The graphicson the game are outstanding and the gameplay is excellent. You can't find a better game than that in the whole universe. SPORE RULES!!
  41. SlamB.
    Sep 9, 2008
    7
    The creation aspect of the game is every bit as wonderful as was advertised. The actual game part of the game wasn't advertised for a reason.
  42. ShiladieQ.
    Sep 9, 2008
    0
    Great game, horrible DRM, do not buy this game! if you wish to play it, pirate it and send Will Wright your money directly, thus bypassing the big brother software EA will be putting on your computer.
  43. WolfgangF.
    Sep 9, 2008
    3
    Beautiful editors that have almost zero impact on the simplistic and shallow gameplay.
  44. JonG.
    Sep 9, 2008
    1
    Fun game. Doesn't go deep enough into any of the modes to be that involving. You'll probably play it once and be done. Awful DRM takes a pretty decent game and makes it a sure fire don't buy.
  45. JonttuP.
    Sep 9, 2008
    3
    Most boring game ever! Makers spent too much of their time by making stupid editors. That's why the game itself is really boring and has no good content. Dont buy this one!
  46. EricS.
    Sep 9, 2008
    4
    If you like sub-bar succession of pac-man, 3rd person shooter, RTS and space exloration game, youre in for a treat.
  47. AlexF.
    Sep 9, 2008
    5
    Extremely repetitive game. the idea was good and deserved an average score. but the gameplay was uneventful and cheap.
  48. IvanC.
    Sep 9, 2008
    0
    This game is broken, The copy-protection prevents thousands of users from logging on. I've sent my copy back to Amazon for a full refund.
  49. RAGE'N'HATE
    Sep 9, 2008
    5
    Mediocre at BEST. I regret the purchase due to lack of substantial gameplay. Sure, making stuff from a brickbox is fun, but doing the same depthless minigame over and over again is ridiculous. I would have had more fun with a freeware lego game.
  50. PatrickK.
    Sep 9, 2008
    8
    Nice game, runs well with only a few bugs / design flaws. would get a 10 if there was extended gameplay in tribal and civ stages but they are somewhat basic. * major flaw is not being able to skip tutorial dialogue (which can lead to those skipping cinematics between stages not being able to click on the required objective as the screen has not zoomed into place and the tutorial dialogue Nice game, runs well with only a few bugs / design flaws. would get a 10 if there was extended gameplay in tribal and civ stages but they are somewhat basic. * major flaw is not being able to skip tutorial dialogue (which can lead to those skipping cinematics between stages not being able to click on the required objective as the screen has not zoomed into place and the tutorial dialogue locks out movement control).… Expand
  51. KevinH.
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    Game is boring, oversimplified, uninvolved and your actions have little meaning. However the real problem here is DRM. I'm NOT OK with having a hard-set 3 install limit and then having to plead my case to EA to install it further. No thank you, I will be telling everybody I know not to buy spore. At this point, pirating it is easier.
  52. bobw.
    Sep 8, 2008
    2
    Invasive DRM and an unbelievably dumbed down gameplay experience make this one a miss. Do yourself a big favor and spend the money on a cheap hooker to kick you a bunch of times in the crotch instead.
  53. RSmith
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    Nothing but problems with the DRM. I feel ripped off.
  54. MichealB.
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    I'm without Internet this week due to the fact that I'm up at camp. This game doesn't want to work unless I authenticate!
  55. CB.
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    The big grudge with Spore is the tyrannical DRM -- and that's a valid grudge, since it doesn't accomplish anything except annoy legitimate customers -- but underneath the DRM fiasco, the game itself isn't anything close to what it should have been. For all the player created content gushing out of this game, the experience of playing it is surprisingly stingy: you'll The big grudge with Spore is the tyrannical DRM -- and that's a valid grudge, since it doesn't accomplish anything except annoy legitimate customers -- but underneath the DRM fiasco, the game itself isn't anything close to what it should have been. For all the player created content gushing out of this game, the experience of playing it is surprisingly stingy: you'll spend lots of time swimming around frustratingly slowly only to finish the first phase of the game without ever really feeling like you've accomplished much. The creature phase consists of doing the exact same thing (either beating on and killing, or socializing with, other creatures -- depending primarily on your choice between carnivore and herbivore) over and over again... until you move on to the tribal phase. Unfortunately, you'll be doing essentially the same thing there as well (attack or ... make music), only now you'll be doing it with a whole continent of creatures that look exactly like you. The civilization phase feels awkward and unpolished, and doesn't really add anything compelling (you get to make buildings here, but trust me when I say it isn't compelling). And finally the space phase is essentially a long series of slow zoom-in-zoom-out sessions punctuated by badly controlled combat, unclear diplomatic interactions, and profoundly repetitious missions. Even if the DRM issue is ever resolved, there's nearly 10 years of downward-spiral game design that would need to be erased before Spore was worth even half of the $50 price tag.… Expand
  56. WillJ.
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    Yet another sandbox game without a theme, without a heart, without any discernible reason to exist. And of course, because it's from Will Wright, the press is fauning all over it. This is not a game, nor is it even a very useful simulation. It's just the naked, brazen expression of a bored and obviously beyond-his-prime game designer who is apparently obsessed with himself and Yet another sandbox game without a theme, without a heart, without any discernible reason to exist. And of course, because it's from Will Wright, the press is fauning all over it. This is not a game, nor is it even a very useful simulation. It's just the naked, brazen expression of a bored and obviously beyond-his-prime game designer who is apparently obsessed with himself and tied to a company that seeks only to maximize their return on a huge outlay with the most obscene cart-before-the-horse marketing plan ever associated with a game. I can just imagine those EA folks slathering in their pre-launch meetings "this is going to be bigger than THE SIMS!" LOL. That said, there is no fun here. Lot of production values and shiny toys to play with. But nothing really to do. Too bad they missed the opportunity of multiplayer so that players could at least see each other's creations in real time, instead of the lame-ass shared creations plan they implemented. What a disappointment!… Expand
  57. RodericR.
    Sep 8, 2008
    0
    Anything with SECURom gets a 0. I don't care if its the best game ever made. I hope it gets pirated to hell and back in Asia to show them DO NOT PUNISH YOUR PAYING CUSTOMERS, YOU WILL LOSE. 3 installations is ridiculous. If you pay for it, you should get to install it nonstop till the day you die if you so choose. Again, SECURom games all get a 0. Its that simple. They lost 3 paying Anything with SECURom gets a 0. I don't care if its the best game ever made. I hope it gets pirated to hell and back in Asia to show them DO NOT PUNISH YOUR PAYING CUSTOMERS, YOU WILL LOSE. 3 installations is ridiculous. If you pay for it, you should get to install it nonstop till the day you die if you so choose. Again, SECURom games all get a 0. Its that simple. They lost 3 paying customers from my family. We would play a bootleg as punishment to them, but never pay for ANYTHING with SECURom.… Expand
  58. JohnW.
    Sep 8, 2008
    0
    Gameplay is good, but completely spoiled by overrestrictive DRM. I can't in good conscience give points to a game that actively prevents you from playing without jumping through hoops.
  59. RealmR.
    Sep 8, 2008
    0
    The gameplay is alright especially the final Galatic Civ phase. However, I'm having problems with my computer crashing every since I installed and some of my anti-virus programs did not like the Spore install. I did some googling and saw that Spore used a DRM scheme caused SecuRom which basically runs admin like in the background of your computer. I didn't see a warning on the The gameplay is alright especially the final Galatic Civ phase. However, I'm having problems with my computer crashing every since I installed and some of my anti-virus programs did not like the Spore install. I did some googling and saw that Spore used a DRM scheme caused SecuRom which basically runs admin like in the background of your computer. I didn't see a warning on the box or anything. Very Unsatisfied.… Expand
  60. BrandonL.
    Sep 8, 2008
    3
    Overall spore is a fantastic idea with amazing scope and range of gameplay. The problem is, after I played it through once, I found I had no desire to do so again. Spore is essentially a huge ocean, with the depth of a kiddie pool.
  61. C.M.
    Sep 8, 2008
    7
    It's a cute little game but the lack of anything outside of the creature creator really brings the game down. For "serious" gamers it's nice to have a look at but, like myself, there's really no lasting appeal outside of creating all the different little things.
  62. DiegoL.
    Sep 8, 2008
    0
    Stupid gameplay, linear and without any depth. Bad graphics and art direction. Surly all this game does is copy-paste VERY simplified versions of other series. I could gave it a 3 score, but I'm too disappointed.
  63. customernotbuying
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    The DRM scheme of the sofware industry is promoting piracy and punishing buyers. Get it out please. P.S Metacritic not displaying user reviews drops them way down in my opinion, can hardly believe the amount of sites not allowing negative reviews.
  64. DavidBacon
    Sep 8, 2008
    0
    I will not buy this game until they take out the useless DRM SecuROM. ANy doubts check Amazon and you ´ll understand.
  65. Patrick
    Sep 8, 2008
    10
    Refreshing, innovative, creative!
  66. CoryK.
    Sep 8, 2008
    9
    THis game gives me a bit of everything. I like casual experiences as much as hardcore RTS experience. This gives me everything in a really creative package. The game is not without some flaws (ie. feeling like you need to grind during the tribal period), but I am thoroughly impressed with the technology that drives it. This game also makes me think about the way I play games in general, THis game gives me a bit of everything. I like casual experiences as much as hardcore RTS experience. This gives me everything in a really creative package. The game is not without some flaws (ie. feeling like you need to grind during the tribal period), but I am thoroughly impressed with the technology that drives it. This game also makes me think about the way I play games in general, and rewards me for being good and bad, and in equally different ways.… Expand
  67. DominicD.
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    Spore was supposed to be a revolutionary experience, combining multiple genres while concentrating on evolution and genetics. Fast forward two years and here we have the finished product, ready to be installed on our hard drives. First of all, the game incorporates a draconian DRM system that requires you to activate over the internet, and limits you to a grand total of 3 activations. If Spore was supposed to be a revolutionary experience, combining multiple genres while concentrating on evolution and genetics. Fast forward two years and here we have the finished product, ready to be installed on our hard drives. First of all, the game incorporates a draconian DRM system that requires you to activate over the internet, and limits you to a grand total of 3 activations. If you reach that limit, then you'll have to call EA in order to add one extra activation. That's not as simple as it sounds, since when you reach that point EA will assume that you, the paying customer, are a filthy pirating thief. You will need to provide proof of purchase, reasons why the limit was reached, etc, etc (it has all happened before with another recent EA product, Mass Effect). EA, of course, is not obligated to grant you that extra activation or even provide that service. In a couple of years they might very well even shut down the general activation servers, because "it's not financially feasible" to keep them running. What you will be left with is a nice, colorful $50 coaster. And you will be required to pay for another copy/license if you want to continue playing. This basically means that you are actually RENTING the game, instead of owning it. The game WILL stop to function in the future. That's inevitable, because even if EA keeps the activation servers going, there IS going to be a time when EA will simply cease to exist because of financial issues or federal laws (like most business eventually do). Second, the game was dumbed down to oblivion. Evolution doesn't even matter anymore. You can add as many legs to a creature as you want, but it won't be any faster than a one legged creature with higher leg stats. "Creating" your creatures is pointless (cosmetic only, because everything is based on stats), and brings you about the same excitement as dressing up a plastic doll.… Expand
  68. DRMSUCKS
    Sep 8, 2008
    1
    This games DRM content is surprising especially since the bit torrent community has a Spore version already out there without the DRM code. I wonder if that version uninstalls? EA, I expected better ... I bought Spore yesterday from Fry's and installed it on a friends computer so we could check it our and see if he wanted to buy it ... now I'm down one computer install, and he This games DRM content is surprising especially since the bit torrent community has a Spore version already out there without the DRM code. I wonder if that version uninstalls? EA, I expected better ... I bought Spore yesterday from Fry's and installed it on a friends computer so we could check it our and see if he wanted to buy it ... now I'm down one computer install, and he decided he didn't like it and now he can't uninstall it from his computer. UGH! What a way to treat paying customers, next time I should get the better (DRM free) version from a torrent.… Expand
  69. BobG.
    Sep 8, 2008
    2
    This game has no gameplay. It is too easy, you finish it in less then 4 hours and there is no real replay. Its kiddy-proof and looks cute, but thats all that is positive. For a real gamer this is just another "once download then never play again" gaming title.
  70. RyanD.
    Sep 8, 2008
    9
    I am only on the second stage, creature, but this game is already great. Making your creatures total freaks of nature is the overall goal of the game. You either kill or make friends with other creatures which earns you DNA points you can spend on parts for your creations. I am trying hard not to make any phallic creatures!!
  71. AlenC.
    Sep 8, 2008
    3
    Very pretty, about 1 hour of intense play -- followed by boring repetition. Maybe I'm missing something? Oh, and the copy protection scheme used will make uninstalling a nightmare. Thanks EA, for another marginal product with ugly strings.
  72. AndrewH
    Sep 8, 2008
    10
    From a tiny cell to ruling the galaxy. Just epic. At one point in Creature phase I looked up at the moon and while I was thinking how cool it look I realized I was going to be able to go there. So rad.
  73. BernardM.
    Sep 8, 2008
    9
    An incredible technical achievement. Casual enough that the game doesn't get in the way of the toy. My favorite moment was when a mutant ninja turtle I'd created last month in the creature creator showed up as a 60 foot giant and was then felled by a passing spacecraft.
  74. DjD.
    Sep 8, 2008
    8
    Some of the best interfaces in game history, awesome content creators, but the gameplay is way too simple and easy. This game could have been brilliant, and maybe a next version will be. For now I'll just have fun playing around with my creatures.
  75. JayF.
    Sep 8, 2008
    2
    - online activation only - three activations only (on 3 separate computers OR one computer w/configuration changes, which are not disclosed by EA - activations are NOT revoked upon uninstallation - exceeding the 3rd activation and needing another requires approval from EA - for some disks will be unreadable by their DVD drives due to Securom manufacturing process - already longstanding - online activation only - three activations only (on 3 separate computers OR one computer w/configuration changes, which are not disclosed by EA - activations are NOT revoked upon uninstallation - exceeding the 3rd activation and needing another requires approval from EA - for some disks will be unreadable by their DVD drives due to Securom manufacturing process - already longstanding problems resulting from Securom conflicts w/other programs still occur - resale is virtually killed due to activation limits - no refunds are given for downloaded games - games purchased via EA Download Manager require additional payment for access to them after 2 years - EA Download Manager installation required for patches - Securom does not uninstall when the game is uninstalled - Securom transmits unknown iinformation over the internet without user's knowledge or consent - Securom accesses Ring0 to detect emulation software - Securom installs hidden files/folders/registry entries upon execution of the game - Securom is made by SonyDADC, with whom purchasers have no contract when they buy an EA game - Securom is not named or identified in any EA eula - activation limits are not disclosed to the purchaser in any packaging or documentation prior to purchase - toll free EA support phone numbers are not available outside of the US - Securom is well known to cause conflicts w/factory installed emulation utilities, older versions of itself, optical drive software, antivirus software, and other peripheral software None of the above is conveyed by EA to any purchaser until after purchase...nor in any of the quoted reviews listed in this aggregate. This metacritic rating therefore means nothing.… Expand
  76. ThomasC.
    Sep 8, 2008
    7
    Original, but found it boring running around making friends with other life forms or killing and eating them. Reminds me a lot of the Sims.
  77. JennyC.
    Sep 8, 2008
    6
    Spore is a series of oversimplified and unimaginative minigames wrapped around groundbreaking procedural animation editors. While these editors are impressive and may herald a new future for customization in games, they alone can't save Spore from monotonous and linear gameplay. For all its claims of being a sandbox, the gameplay of Spore is anything but. While users can create an Spore is a series of oversimplified and unimaginative minigames wrapped around groundbreaking procedural animation editors. While these editors are impressive and may herald a new future for customization in games, they alone can't save Spore from monotonous and linear gameplay. For all its claims of being a sandbox, the gameplay of Spore is anything but. While users can create an infinite variety of creatures to inhabit their worlds, the performance and futures of these creations are entirely determined by diet, fixed stats and objectives the player must complete in each stage. This wouldn't be damning on its own, but where Spore falls apart is in the depth of each stage - there isn't any. There is no strategy, planning, tactics, or creativity in anything you'll do outside of the editors. Solving conflicts and making friends is a simple game of "Simon Says" imitation done by mouseclicks and evolving your creature is a matter of literally pulling body parts out of the ground to add to your collection. In the Creature stage alone you'll be forced to do these actions dozens upon dozens of times with no unique consequences by interacting with AI. Speaking of AI, there isn't any. The animals of Spore either roam in mindless packs or stay concentrated around their nest. They show no desires or emotion. Example, a herbivore character rushes into an unfamiliar albeit neutral carnivorous species' nest, knocks its eggs out, stomps all over, eats the fruit on their nearby trees and then leaves, all without the homewrecked species reacting outside of backing away to keep a foot or two of distance when the player bumps into them. There is a lot more wrong, or rather disappointing, in Spore, and the rest of the stages offer little more than a barebones linear RTS. People have argued that the expectations of this game were too high, but I would counter that gameplay of this calibre is what's expected of a young child's game, not just something meant to appeal to 'casual gamers.' 5 for the editors, 1 for gameplay, overal.… Expand
  78. MP.
    Sep 8, 2008
    8
    In first 5 hrs I made it to Tribal stage. Cell stage was cute but a tad boring. Creature stage was a hoot and fun to design my "evolving creature." I'm anxious to get through the remainder of the game and have so far really enjoying the customization and "free will" concept of the game. I think this is a good investment for young & old, and novice and hard-core gamers alike. :)
  79. JohnH.
    Sep 8, 2008
    2
    Really Dumbed down game, the revolutionary idea of including five game types into one has just resulted in five abysmally simple, broken and repetitive minigames. combined with DRM which means you are essentially renting a game for $50 gets it a big big thumbs down from me. cell mode is so simple to finish youll have a hard time starving yourself long enough to pick up all the parts you Really Dumbed down game, the revolutionary idea of including five game types into one has just resulted in five abysmally simple, broken and repetitive minigames. combined with DRM which means you are essentially renting a game for $50 gets it a big big thumbs down from me. cell mode is so simple to finish youll have a hard time starving yourself long enough to pick up all the parts you need, creature mode involves choosing between killing a new creature or dancing for hiim. and then you must repeat this some 200 times to advance. in tribal stage the lack of ai begins to really show, computer players do not interact with each other, and barely with you other than to respond to attacks with small raiding party's. civilisation mode again is painfully simple, you can destroy every other group on the map before they expand beyond one city with ease, nobody chalenges you for your resources or threatens your cities. and finally space mode involves suddenly expanding to a word with literally hundreds of thousands of new systems, and a thousand new civilisations, all of whom have the power to warp fleets of 20 ships to your home world from the other end of the galaxy. which they will do incessantly. and there is no trade automation meaning you will spend 60 % of your time collecting and selling resources, and 39% defending your planets against random attacks. leaving you 1% to realise how dull all the hundreds of unlocks are.… Expand
  80. MarkT.
    Sep 8, 2008
    7
    I'm in two minds about Spore, although what I'm sure of is i don't feel this is a classic. The first few phases are over too quickly, which was a surprise. The space phase has the potential for many hours of gameplay if you start with a poor strategy, but I suspect those who have anything but extreme patience will find it gets boring. Even so, a set of interesting ideas, I'm in two minds about Spore, although what I'm sure of is i don't feel this is a classic. The first few phases are over too quickly, which was a surprise. The space phase has the potential for many hours of gameplay if you start with a poor strategy, but I suspect those who have anything but extreme patience will find it gets boring. Even so, a set of interesting ideas, with the final phase poorly executed. YMMV… Expand
  81. AaronC.
    Sep 8, 2008
    0
    The DRM on this game makes it absolutely unplayable. Copy protection only hurts legitimate buyers.
  82. TomH.
    Sep 8, 2008
    9
    Rather than thinking of it as a game with a creative element, think of it as a creative (i.e., Lego-type) toy, which lets you take your creations into a fascinating and complex world, and interact with other peoples. Two things would make it better: i) if the creatures evolved without human intervention (offspring not identical to parents) and ii) if players could interact online in more Rather than thinking of it as a game with a creative element, think of it as a creative (i.e., Lego-type) toy, which lets you take your creations into a fascinating and complex world, and interact with other peoples. Two things would make it better: i) if the creatures evolved without human intervention (offspring not identical to parents) and ii) if players could interact online in more complex ways (e.g., as in EVE).… Expand
  83. ShannonC.
    Sep 8, 2008
    9
    This game is a breath of fresh air. Very innovative and creative. And a lot of fun to boot.
  84. GunnarG.
    Sep 8, 2008
    9
    A very good game if you're a creative person and like exploring the full potential of a limitless world. The main thing that holds this game together is the famous creature creator, without it the game would be quite dull. So if you don't like creating stuff, this game won't be your cup of tea.
  85. JonS
    Sep 8, 2008
    10
    This game gets better the more you play it. Sure, each stage doesn't have as much depth as the full game releases that they draw inspiration from, but with everything together this game is fun.
  86. MaxB
    Sep 8, 2008
    6
    I'm severely underwhelmed. Repetitive minigames, some not even worthy of a flash game on the web. The only good thing about it is the creating things part, and even that's impotent in some respects. I think if they make a Spore 2 it'll be much better. I think this time they tried to do to much and so the entire thing suffered. The whole "world" feels extremely compact, too. I'm severely underwhelmed. Repetitive minigames, some not even worthy of a flash game on the web. The only good thing about it is the creating things part, and even that's impotent in some respects. I think if they make a Spore 2 it'll be much better. I think this time they tried to do to much and so the entire thing suffered. The whole "world" feels extremely compact, too. I don't feel like a species on a planet. I feel like a few creatures in a sandbox. On the whole, the best thing to come out of the game is the procedural generation and animation of models, which hopefully will be adapted to other games [make all your own models for an RTS, perhaps?].… Expand
  87. GarthR.
    Sep 8, 2008
    10
    An incredibly *fun* game that takes a refreshing step away from the MMOs and FPSs that saturate an otherwise unimaginative industry. Kudos to Will Wright and his very talented team of developers !!
  88. GeroldS.
    Sep 8, 2008
    7
    Becomes booring very fast for lack of depth and a real challange. Any form of "balance the stats" challenge like in sims or sim city with a little more depth, maybe only on "Hard" would have made this a 10/10 game.
  89. AnonymousMC
    Sep 8, 2008
    4
    The "game" segments between editing your creature work as a good pacing device and little else. The Cell stage gives you little creature options, but lets you play and define what you want. The actual gameplay of the cell stage is superior to any of the other stages as interaction is quick, dynamic, and throws new things at you before you can get bored. The Creature stage is where youThe "game" segments between editing your creature work as a good pacing device and little else. The Cell stage gives you little creature options, but lets you play and define what you want. The actual gameplay of the cell stage is superior to any of the other stages as interaction is quick, dynamic, and throws new things at you before you can get bored. The Creature stage is where you really define what your creature looks like and does, but unfortunately it has the worst gameplay. The world feels very empty sterile and your only interaction is attack or socialize, and both options result in the same gameplay mechanics and outcomes. The interactions are dreadfully simplistic. It's basically WoW without other players, stores, or exploration. Now comes the civilization stage and all that fine tuning of your creature now makes little difference. Finally there is more to do than just atack/socalize as resource gathering for once comes as a relief. This is probably the part of the game with the deepest gameplay as what you equip different units with affects how they perform. The next stage puts you on the planetary scale and your fighting your own creations. Oddly this stage is much simpler than the tribal stage as unit choices don't seem to mean a damn thing anymore. Simplified resource gathering streamlines your right into the overly simplistic tactical gameplay. You have one type of unit for land, and one type for water. Since there is no more variety or meaningful differences the gameplay degrades into simply sending a swarm of units to attack and little else. Don't tell me religious units perform different than military, a beam of religion seems to blow stuff up all the same. The Civilization stage does however constantly bombard you with the building/vehicle editors which gives you a chance to exercise your creativity, however the choices you make make no difference outside of visuals.… Expand
  90. NicoD.
    Sep 7, 2008
    4
    You cannot buy this game, only rent it due to serious DRM issues. They made the evolution part too simple, too much Sims, too little real gameplay. Great concept, bad execution.
  91. JoelyC.
    Sep 7, 2008
    9
    Pretty awesome game, definately worth the running around town trying to find a store that wasn't sold out. The game in some places needs a lil more complexity, maybe an expansion pack in the future that will give this game a 10/10, instead of just a 9.
  92. GaryP.
    Sep 7, 2008
    0
    Good game, but the DRM is a deal breaker. I ended up having to crack my legally brought copy in order to play it.
  93. KayD.
    Sep 7, 2008
    9
    I'm only into the beginning of the Space phase, but so far it's been a blast. I'm not giving it 10 because: 1) SecuROM; 2) It took a while and some forum reading to get it to install and run properly; 3) There are definitely more than a few bugs and deficits. Still, that's nothing that can't be fixed with a change of policy and a patch. I'm optimistic. I'm only into the beginning of the Space phase, but so far it's been a blast. I'm not giving it 10 because: 1) SecuROM; 2) It took a while and some forum reading to get it to install and run properly; 3) There are definitely more than a few bugs and deficits. Still, that's nothing that can't be fixed with a change of policy and a patch. I'm optimistic. It's been worth the wait.… Expand
  94. BotzM.
    Sep 7, 2008
    4
    Way too shallow and tedious. Every stage until space feels tacked on and contains at least one poorly implemented gimmick from a well done popular game that already exists. It feels like a cash in from ea due to the overly long dev time and obvious money that has been dumped into it. Just because it has a gigantic scope means nothing. The only thing that has panned out from the initial Way too shallow and tedious. Every stage until space feels tacked on and contains at least one poorly implemented gimmick from a well done popular game that already exists. It feels like a cash in from ea due to the overly long dev time and obvious money that has been dumped into it. Just because it has a gigantic scope means nothing. The only thing that has panned out from the initial hype is the creator programs and those are rendered worthless since nothing you make in them has any bearing on how you actually play the game. Maybe with the 20 expansions they are sure to release it will turn out to be something special but will wright should be ashamed releasing something like this considering the record of quality he had achieved with maxis.… Expand
  95. DeadP.
    Sep 7, 2008
    0
    Horrible game, I don't think it can get anymore casual. Not to mention that it speaks volumes about EA and Maxis on how they sell out, when the 2005 demo of the game looked far better than the 2008 version.
  96. Karl
    Sep 7, 2008
    5
    5 sub standard games rolled into one. Not much depth, more of a casual games for people who dont usually play games.
  97. Jens
    Sep 7, 2008
    8
    It has some flaws, yes, but it's also pretty much the only game to compare itself with. It's an all-new, innovative experience and I think it's worth trying it.
  98. GwarB.
    Sep 7, 2008
    2
    The precursor stages lack any sort of depth or actual gameplay and as such every gamer will simply skip to the space stage on their second go. As bread an butter of the game, the space stage suffers from horrible controls, insane amounts of micromanagement and game mechanics which will invariably see you quit every game after 3 or so hours of getting precisely nowhere.
  99. DanM.
    Sep 7, 2008
    9
    Brilliant game, absolutely immersing, but some stages can be rather tedious at parts.
  100. AnthonyB.
    Sep 7, 2008
    7
    Meh. For a game of such scope it strangely has limited depth. A surprise - but not a welcome one.
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Awards & Rankings

19
#19 Best PC Game of 2008
2
#2 Most Discussed PC Game of 2008
4
#4 Most Shared PC Game of 2008

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
84

Generally favorable reviews - based on 75 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 62 out of 75
  2. Mixed: 13 out of 75
  3. Negative: 0 out of 75
  1. Play (Poland)
    90
    How to design a game that spans from swimming in a drop of water to ruling the galaxy? Will Wright knows how: as simple as possible. Spore deserves success on "The Sims" scale. [Sept 2008]
  2. PC Gamer UK
    91
    Spore's triumph is painfully ironic. By setting out to instill a sense of wonderment at creation and the majesty of the universe, it's shown us that it's actually a lot more interesting to sit here at our computers and explore the contents of each other's brains. [October 2008, p.64]
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  3. PTGamers
    100
    Spore manages quite some feats – it's accessible for casual gamers, but at the same time so real and dynamic, able to offer hardcore gamers a demanding experience and, obviously, a more appealing one than in "The Sims".
    Read full review
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