In Review: Exploring the Cozy Depths of Core Keeper
Core Keeper, a captivating Indie title from independent game developers Pugstorm and published by Fireshine Games, plunges players into a vast, procedurally generated cavern. This game launched in early access over two years ago, but recently had its 1.0 launch update on August 27th. Survival hinges on resource harvesting and battling enemies to uncover secret lore. The game's success is evident, with over 25,000 very positive reviews on Steam - and that was only for Early Access. It seamlessly blends elements from beloved base-building survival sims like Terraria, Valheim, and Don't Starve with a charm reminiscent of Stardew Valley. The perfect game if you like cozy games with a challenge.
At its core, Core Keeper feels like a dungeon crawler in which players actively shape their environment. At first, it's a basic grind, simply mining square tiles for resources, gradually expanding the map while players explore. The ability to make bases, craft items, and take preparations before diving into boss fights against the always-evolving hunger and health systems makes this process super engaging.
The multiplayer option caters to up to eight players at any given time. It requires cooperation with a hint of strategy, making for the perfect experience alone or among a group of friends. In my case, my partner in crime for my 31 hours of gameplay was my Terraria-obsessed husband, who enjoyed this game wholeheartedly. Because of its smart game loops and ease into combat, this game was the perfect duo game for both of us—me, who loves cozy games, and him, who loves a challenge.
Core Keeper has a very engaging, almost meditative, gameplay loop. Resources are needed to build up and upgrade a base, craft better gear, and discover the secrets of the cavern deeper. Crafting is gradually exposed with a view that provides satisfying progression without hitting the player initially with too many confusing mechanisms. A simple yet powerful skill system allows players to specialize in different activities and enhance their skills as they progress. Playing with multiple people allow you to maximize different talent builds as well.
Core Keeper's unique pixel art style adds warmth to the game's darker elements, creating a comforting atmosphere for the cozy gamers. The lighting, dynamic environments, and endearing animations make players feel at home in the game's world. The game features several biomes, each with unique resources and terrifying bosses, evoking a sense of warmth and familiarity. The aesthetic effectively balances the horror elements, making the game appealing to a wider audience.
What stood out in this game for me was the cooking system in which players experiment with ingredients to create meals that have different stat-boosting effects. This could combine with farming, defeating enemies, and fishing for yet another added depth to the game and comfort and achievement for the players.
Core Keeper is an excellent blend of survival, exploration, and crafting with a rich, inviting experience. The simplistic mechanics, engaging, charming visuals and cooperative gameplay truly make the title shine. Even in its early access state, it has a bright future ahead of itself, engulfing players in a cozy yet dangerous underground world.
I am giving this game a 9/10 with room to grow in its bright future.
Get Core Keeper on Steam:
About Pugstorm
An award-winning studio from Sweden
Welcome to Pugstorm! Born in 2018 and bred in charming Linköping, Sweden, we are the crafters of playful, hare-raising adventures like Radical Rabbit Stew and the hit Steam sensation, Core Keeper.
Driven by a potent mix of creativity, caffeine, and a ceaseless passion for pixel-perfection, we’re carving out a future in gaming that’s as exciting as a pug in a ball pit.