Per Aspera similar games & best alternatives
Per Aspera
2020
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Quick resume
Make Mars your own! Take control of the world’s most sophisticated AI (AMI) and terraform the surface of the Red Planet for a city-building experience on a planetary scale. Transform this barren world into a lush paradise and explore the surface for any ancient secrets that may be waiting.
Global score
76/100
Genres
Indie, Simulator, Strategy
Pros
- Compelling sci-fi story with multiple endings
- Immersive mars terraforming and colony building
- Atmospheric visuals and sound design
- Accessible yet strategic gameplay
- Continuous developer support and dlc
Cons
- Slow pacing and repetitive late game
- Logistics ai and resource transport issues
- Limited tutorial and ui quality of life features
- Minimal combat and multiplayer depth
- Some narrative interruptions and pacing flaws
Motivations
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Autonomy4
"Players control an AI character making strategic decisions on terraforming and colony expansion with freedom to choose building placement and research paths."
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Competence3
"Players engage in managing complex logistics, resource allocation, and terraforming challenges requiring planning and problem solving."
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Competition-4
"Focus is on personal progression and story; no evidence of competitive multiplayer or leaderboards."
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Continuation2
"Players invest many hours in a single playthrough; some find late game slow and less engaging, limiting replayability."
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Cooperation1
"Game primarily single-player; some mention of multiplayer co-op but limited data on cooperative gameplay."
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Creativity3
"Players design and expand bases across Mars with freedom to place buildings anywhere, shaping infrastructure organically."
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Domination-5
"Interactions emphasize story and management; no evidence of exerting control or superiority over other players."
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Escapism4
"Immersive sci-fi narrative and atmospheric gameplay provide strong escape from real life."
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Expectation-4
"Players engage voluntarily driven by interest in story and terraforming mechanics; no indication of obligation or pressure."
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Experimenting2
"Players explore different terraforming methods and strategies, though gameplay loop is somewhat repetitive."
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Exploration3
"Players discover new areas, ruins, and mysteries on Mars, enhancing immersion and curiosity."
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Expression2
"Customization mainly through building placement and colony design; limited cosmetic personalization."
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Fantasy3
"Sci-fi setting with AI protagonist and terraforming Mars offers imaginative fictional experience."
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Fellowship-3
"Primarily single-player experience with minimal social or community interaction."
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Growth3
"Players learn terraforming mechanics and improve strategic planning over time."
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Health-5
"Sedentary gameplay with no physical activity elements."
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Idle3
"Gameplay includes long periods of waiting and slow progression, allowing for casual engagement."
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Intimacy-4
"Social interactions limited to narrative dialogue; no close player relationships."
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Leadership3
"Players lead the colony and make key decisions shaping Mars' development."
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Progression4
"Strong focus on accumulating resources, research, and upgrades to advance terraforming and colony."
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Relaxation3
"Slow-paced, chill gameplay with atmospheric music and visuals promotes relaxation."
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Sensation2
"Visual and auditory elements are pleasant but not highly stimulating or intense."
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Status-4
"No social recognition or ranking systems; focus on individual achievement."
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Story5
"Narrative immersion is a major strength with deep story, character development, and multiple endings."
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Strategy3
"Requires mental challenge in logistics, resource management, and long-term planning."
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Thrill-3
"Gameplay is slow and methodical with minimal suspense or risk."
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Value3
"Players report good value for time spent, especially on sale; story and gameplay justify purchase."
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Violence-4
"Combat is minimal, rudimentary, and not a focus; emphasis on constructive building and terraforming."
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Survival2
"Players manage threats and resource challenges but overall environment is stable and controlled."
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Last update: 06/03/2026