SteamWorld Dig
Mar 10, 2020 6 years ago
SteamWorld Dig is 2D a platform game that revolves around mining for resources and ores. The objective of the game is to investigate the mines underneath the old Western town Tumbleton in order to unearth the secrets lurking below. The player controls Rusty who is equipped with a pickaxe but the player is given options to upgrade the tools used for digging as progression is made in the game. Besides health, the player also needs coal for light, and water for special abilities. SteamWorld Dig has platform elements in that the player runs, jumps and encounter foes, but the main objective is mining. That means that the player builds – or rather deconstructs – the game world and creates platforms that way. The player collects resources and other hidden resources which can be brought back to the surface and exchanged for cash. When the player progress in the game new abilities are unlocked. Each playthrough, the mines are randomized, making items and treasure appear in different locations. If the player gets stuck there is a self destruct function, but the players can also buy ladders in the store at the surface to get out of tricky situations. When progressing deeper down in the cave, the player encounters various enemies with different attack patterns and weak spots. The game features multiple worlds, each with a completely different environment. Dying results in a reparation penalty fee, and the player respawns back on the surface. All the loot that has been accumulated when the player dies can be picked up again.
What it’s like
SteamWorld Dig offers a charming, relaxed metroidvania experience set in a steampunk Wild West where robots have inherited the earth. You control Rusty, descending into randomized mines to uncover secrets while managing resources like coal and water. The core loop is deeply satisfying: dig strategically to create platforms, collect ores, and upgrade your pickaxe and tools. Combat is present but secondary to exploration and resource management, featuring enemies with distinct weak spots that encourage tactical digging rather than pure reflexes. The game’s strength lies in its accessible yet solid mechanics; it features a gentle learning curve and no complex micromanagement, making it welcoming for both genre veterans and newcomers. The procedural generation ensures each descent feels fresh, while the upgrade system provides a clear sense of power growth. Visually, the hand-drawn art style is delightful, complemented by a cozy atmosphere that balances tension with whimsy.
Strong in Exploration / WorldGameplay / MechanicsPolish / PerformanceProgression / ReplayabilityVisuals / ArtAtmosphere / MoodAudio / MusicPacingSystems Depth / Build Variety
Keep in mind The narrative is minimal and serves primarily as flavor text rather than a driving force, which may disappoint players seeking deep storytelling. Combat encounters are relatively simple and lack the intensity found in more action-focused titles, potentially feeling repetitive to those looking for high-stakes challenges.
AI-generated from catalog data, informed by reviews from metacritic.com, youtube.com, medium.com, opencritic.com, honestgamers.com, ign.com.
Screenshots
Releases
| Platform | Region | Type | Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nintendo 3DS | Worldwide | Full release | Aug 08, 201313 years ago |
| Linux | Worldwide | Full release | Dec 05, 201313 years ago |
| Mac | Worldwide | Full release | Dec 05, 201313 years ago |
| PC (Microsoft Windows) | Worldwide | Full release | Dec 05, 201313 years ago |
| PlayStation 4 | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 19, 201412 years ago |
| PlayStation Vita | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 19, 201412 years ago |
| Wii U | Worldwide | Full release | Aug 28, 201412 years ago |
| Xbox One | Worldwide | Full release | Jun 05, 201511 years ago |
| Nintendo Switch | Worldwide | Full release | Feb 01, 20189 years ago |
| Google Stadia | Worldwide | Full release | Mar 10, 20206 years ago |
