Factory production lines might come across as mundane to some, but there’s an undeniable allure to them. They possess an almost hypnotic quality. Games like Satisfactory, Shapez 2, and Factorio have taken this allure to another level, making factory simulations not just addictive but also relaxing and utterly captivating. Stepping into this buzzing arena is Modulus, a game flaunting slick features, boundless adaptability, and a proactive approach to player satisfaction. With its debut demo now available on Steam, players have the chance to witness its phenomenal voxel-based production lines firsthand.
Modulus has been crafting its vision for some time, having undergone several playtests. Now, with the demo out, it’s ready for broader audience feedback. At first glance, it ticks all the quintessential boxes of a compelling factory-building experience: intricate layouts, visually pleasing designs, and interconnected conveyor systems sprawled across expansive landscapes. Yet, it dares to be different, introducing unique and clever twists in construction mechanics and production processes.
The game operates with a voxel-based strategy, where you assemble diverse blocks into modules that serve as your primary tools. Forget traditional recipe systems. Instead of assigning specific materials to create building X or machine Y, you focus on producing the correct configuration and quantity of block shapes, then direct them via conveyor belts to your construction sites.
What elevates this experience is watching each block seamlessly integrate into your creations in real-time. The transformation of the scenery is quite charming—a metropolis crafted from multi-storey factories with conveyor belts weaving through like bustling city roads, echoing games like Cities: Skylines.
As you delve deeper into Modulus, you’ll craft new module configurations and upgrade your abilities through the Tech Tree. The ultimate goal? Building grand Monuments—massive, intricate structures demanding extensive skills and vast factory networks. Modulus isn’t limited to a single map; it expands over several islands, each unlocking larger territories and rarer resources.
Originally, the game incorporated a financial element designed to caution players on their spending and curb overly rapid expansion. However, after considering valuable feedback, developer Happy Volcano opted to eliminate this feature from Modulus, a decision embraced in the newest demo version.
Game director David Prinsmel elaborated on this shift in a development log, explaining, “We realized the financial system wasn’t balanced and led to idle periods waiting for funds, frustrating players. After contemplation, we decided the game benefited from its removal. Given Modulus aims for a zen, creative experience devoid of pressure, this new direction aligns perfectly. You’re free to build without constraint.”
Prinsmel also notes that the demo serves as an introduction to the game’s mechanics, including its creative paint system, barely scratching the surface. “We’ve shown you just 5% of our early access content,” he reveals. “And that’s only two-thirds of what the full game will offer. There’s so much more down the pipeline.”
The demo is now available on Steam. For downloads or more insights into this versatile building game, visit its store page here.
Once you’re done exploring Modulus, there are plenty of other great sandbox games to dive into. And if you appreciate the chill, meditative mood of Modulus, we’ve selected some top relaxing games just for you.
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