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Children of a Dead Earth

PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2016

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Quick resume

The most scientifically accurate space warfare simulator ever made. Now with Steam Workshop!

Global score

90/100

Genres

Simulator, Strategy, Real Time Strategy (RTS)

Pros

  • Extremely realistic physics and orbital mechanics
  • Deep and detailed ship and module customization
  • Engaging hard sci-fi simulation
  • Well-written campaign and lore
  • Active modding community and workshop support

Cons

  • Steep learning curve requiring physics knowledge
  • Clunky ui and controls for orbital maneuvers
  • Performance issues with large fleets and missiles
  • Limited campaign content and no multiplayer
  • Minimal graphics and sound design polish

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    5

    "Players have full control over ship and module design, orbital maneuvers, and tactical decisions, reflecting high personal freedom."

  • Competence
    5

    "The game demands mastering complex physics, engineering, and orbital mechanics with detailed feedback on designs and combat outcomes."

  • Competition
    -3

    "Focus is on individual problem solving and personal mastery rather than player-vs-player ranked competition."

  • Continuation
    4

    "Highly engaging for niche players with long play sessions and deep investment in design and simulation aspects."

  • Cooperation
    -4

    "Gameplay is primarily single-player and individual-focused with no multiplayer or cooperative modes."

  • Creativity
    5

    "Extensive customization and creation of ships, modules, weapons, and scenarios enable high creative expression."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions are balanced and simulation-driven without emphasis on social dominance or trash talk."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players use the game as an immersive, intellectually engaging escape into hard sci-fi and realistic space warfare."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily driven by intrinsic interest in physics and engineering rather than obligation."

  • Experimenting
    5

    "Strong emphasis on experimentation with physics parameters, materials, and designs to optimize performance."

  • Exploration
    2

    "Exploration is mostly intellectual and mechanical rather than spatial; some discovery in orbital mechanics and design."

  • Expression
    4

    "Players express themselves through detailed ship and module customization, though cosmetic options are minimal."

  • Fantasy
    -5

    "The game is grounded in realistic, near-future technology with no speculative or fantastical elements."

  • Fellowship
    -4

    "Minimal social interaction; community exists but gameplay is solitary and self-directed."

  • Growth
    5

    "Steep learning curve with continuous skill and knowledge development in physics, engineering, and tactics."

  • Health
    -5

    "Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity or health-related features."

  • Idle
    -4

    "Requires sustained attention and focus; not suitable for casual or background play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No emphasis on forming close social relationships or emotional sharing."

  • Leadership
    2

    "Players command fleets and make strategic decisions, but no multiplayer leadership or group management."

  • Progression
    4

    "Progression through unlocking modules, ships, and campaign missions with increasing complexity."

  • Relaxation
    -2

    "Challenging and sometimes frustrating, with sustained tension rather than casual relaxation."

  • Sensation
    1

    "Visual and auditory feedback is functional and immersive but not highly stimulating or flashy."

  • Status
    -4

    "Achievements and recognition are minimal and mostly personal; no social status or popularity focus."

  • Story
    2

    "There is a campaign with narrative elements, but gameplay is not story-driven and story is minimal."

  • Strategy
    5

    "Heavy emphasis on mental challenge, problem solving, and planning orbital maneuvers and combat tactics."

  • Thrill
    2

    "Tense moments in combat and mission success, but overall gameplay is methodical rather than adrenaline-fueled."

  • Value
    4

    "Highly valued by niche audience for unique simulation depth and replayability despite limited mainstream appeal."

  • Violence
    4

    "Combat involves destruction of ships with realistic weapons and damage modeling."

  • Survival
    3

    "Players must manage resources and avoid failure in missions, reflecting survival challenges in space combat."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026