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Thrive

iOS, Android, PC (Microsoft Windows) • 2021

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Quick resume

An evolution simulation game. Take control of your species in the environment and edit your species as a whole. Compete with other evolving species for resources on an alien planet.

Global score

92/100

Genres

Casual, Indie, Simulator, Early Access, Card & Board Game

Pros

  • Scientifically accurate and educational
  • Deep and complex cell customization
  • Relaxing and immersive gameplay
  • Active and passionate development team
  • Affordable price with free version available

Cons

  • Game is incomplete with limited stages
  • Performance issues and occasional bugs
  • Slow progression and grind in multicellular stage
  • Limited social or cooperative features
  • Resource scarcity can cause frustration

Motivations

  • Autonomy
    4

    "Players have significant control over cell evolution, organelle choices, and strategies, allowing personal freedom in gameplay."

  • Competence
    3

    "The game involves managing complex biological systems and balancing resources, requiring skill and strategic thinking."

  • Competition
    -2

    "Focus is largely on survival and adaptation at personal pace rather than direct competition or leaderboards."

  • Continuation
    2

    "Players show attachment and willingness to support long development, but gameplay can be short or repetitive currently."

  • Cooperation
    -3

    "Gameplay centers on individual cell or species survival with limited multiplayer or cooperative elements."

  • Creativity
    4

    "Extensive customization of cells and organelles allows creative experimentation and unique organism design."

  • Domination
    -4

    "Interactions emphasize ecological balance and survival rather than exerting control or superiority over others."

  • Escapism
    3

    "Players use the game as a relaxing, immersive experience to explore biology and evolution, providing distraction from real life."

  • Expectation
    -4

    "Players engage voluntarily out of interest and support for the ambitious project rather than obligation or pressure."

  • Experimenting
    4

    "Strong emphasis on trying new cell configurations, evolutionary strategies, and exploring mechanics."

  • Exploration
    3

    "Players explore different biomes and resource patches, discovering new environments and niches."

  • Expression
    3

    "Customizing cell parts and appearance allows personal expression within biological constraints."

  • Fantasy
    -3

    "Game focuses on realistic biology and evolution rather than imaginative or mythical elements."

  • Fellowship
    -4

    "Minimal social or community features; gameplay is primarily solitary and self-directed."

  • Growth
    4

    "Players learn biological concepts and develop strategies, gaining knowledge and skills over time."

  • Health
    -4

    "Gameplay is sedentary with no physical activity or health-related mechanics."

  • Idle
    -3

    "Requires focused attention and active management rather than background or casual play."

  • Intimacy
    -5

    "No evidence of close social relationships or emotional sharing; interactions are minimal and surface-level."

  • Leadership
    -4

    "Players manage their own species but do not lead or direct other players; no group leadership roles."

  • Progression
    4

    "Strong progression through evolving cells, acquiring organelles, and advancing evolutionary stages."

  • Relaxation
    3

    "Gameplay is described as relaxing and low-key, with a calming soundtrack and immersive experience."

  • Sensation
    2

    "Visual and auditory elements are pleasant but not highly stimulating; focus is on thoughtful gameplay."

  • Status
    -5

    "Achievements and progress are personal with little to no social recognition or status systems."

  • Story
    2

    "Narrative emerges from evolutionary progress and ecological interactions, though no traditional story."

  • Strategy
    4

    "Requires planning, resource management, and problem solving to survive and evolve effectively."

  • Thrill
    1

    "Some tension from survival challenges but overall experience is more contemplative than thrilling."

  • Value
    4

    "Players perceive good value for price given the depth, educational content, and ongoing development."

  • Violence
    1

    "Includes predation and combat at cellular level but balanced with constructive growth and survival."

  • Survival
    4

    "Core gameplay revolves around avoiding extinction, managing resources, and adapting to threats."

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    Last update: 06/03/2026