Skip to main content

Tharsis (Video Game Review)

Tharsis is a game with a very interesting premise which consists of actually going to Mars for a visit. It might seem uninteresting at first, but the main focus of this game is to see the struggle that the spaceship and its crew have to go through in order to reach the destination safely. Now let’s delve into this adventure!


You can think of Tharsis as being FTL but with a major focus on the crew and the way you manage it. I always wanted to go to space to be honest but somehow this game shows me that there are lots of dangers to be had at all times. From the lack of oxygen or having too much of it all the way to having to deal with fire and lots of unforeseen events--you can really face disaster at all corners, so you always have something new to look out for.

For me the dice based system that creates this entire experience is unique and a lot of fun, but it does have its own times of struggle as you play. You might find yourself in stasis for a long period of time without no input on your ship’s situation, or you might deal with lots of damage and drama as you go along.

Having a crew to work with can be a big help, because it allows you to obtain a much better gameplay experience with them by your side. The doctor can heal you, the engineers can repair stuff and the captain can provide inspiration and moral to all the other persons that struggle to stay alive in their mission to reach Mars safely. It’s an action packed and many times a rollercoaster ride, but one that really delivers value and an astounding insight all around.

Times can get desperate, they really can and you can actually chew on the dead crewmates if you need to, but it all comes down to survival at the end of the day. The game is really gruesome and it manages to add a gritty realism to the game. I find the overall difficulty reminiscent of the Dark Souls games due to its demanding nature, but its the single roll of the dice that can make things unbearable. You must continuously try to move through disaster areas and remain on a constant state of alert. Players will find it very hard to stay calm in this type of situation.

There are multiple game modes here, with the hard mode added in as an unlockable. This difficulty mode is very demanding and while you can strategize, there’s no real way to emphasize what will happen. This was a major strength for me when it comes to Tharsis, the fact that you never know what happens next and in the end this is what makes the experience better.

Graphically, Tharsis combines dark nuances with flames and special effects. There’s not that much to be seen outside the spaceship most off the time, but the overall experience is solid and you really feel there, with the game doing a great job when it comes to offering constant immersion!

In the end, I am very happy with my time in Tharsis, as I really felt that I was responsible for my life and the one of my crewmates. The game has really changed the way I think about survival in space and it’s just an exciting title with a lot to offer. It might not be for those persons that dislike action packed and survival themed games with a constant adrenalin run, but this game is pleasant and fun, so its definitely worth checking out for you diehard space fans!


Score: 8 out of 10
Reviewed for PS4


Popular posts from this blog

Crazy Kung Fu: A chunky, focused fitness‑meets‑reflex fighter (VR Game Review)

Crazy Kung Fu transforms martial‑arts training into a physical rhythm game that sharpens reflexes and raises your heart rate: fast, reflex‑driven, calorie‑burning gameplay wrapped in deep moddability. What started as a focused VR reflex trainer has evolved into a vibrant, community‑shaped practice arena; richer environments, meaningful cosmetic rewards, and new systems that push precision, stamina, and skill growth in equal measure. What the game is • High‑intensity reflex combat : Fast, physical gameplay that maps your hands and body to punching, dodging, and blocking; scoring rewards precise timing and optimal range so every movement matters. • Deep, varied content : 72 handcrafted levels across four distinct modes (Train, Fight, Focus/Compete, Workout/Event), with modifiers and multi‑tier difficulties that scale from welcoming warmups to brutal, pro‑level tests. • Distinct, atmospheric arenas : Six immersive environments; from intimate dojos to a tranquil bamboo forest; each with b...
Level Up: Read More »

Captain Wayne: Vacation Desperation - Retro Rampage on Orca Isle (Game Review)

Captain Wayne: Vacation Desperation detonates with hand‑drawn, ink‑drenched visuals and breakneck retro shooter action, grafting a double‑barreled shotgun onto a sailor’s arm and sending him on a gleefully gory rampage across Orca Isle. Released November 25, 2025 by Ciaran Games LLC and published by Silver Lining Interactive, the game fuses frantic boomer‑shooter gunplay with over‑the‑top animated cutscenes, a ripping, adrenaline‑driven soundtrack, and an endless arena mode that keeps the chaos replayable, equal parts cartoon carnage and twitch‑focused design that rewards speed, improvisation, and a taste for glorious destruction. Gameplay Loop and Systems Core loop • Shoot, survive, adapt : Move fast, read the room, and string momentum through aggressive play. Encounters reward mobility and timing; dash into cover, lay down suppressing fire, then finish with a brutal melee or explosive for maximum payoff. • Distinct weapon identities : Each tool feels purposeful; The Captain’s Ol’ Re...
Level Up: Read More »

Tiger’s Inn Restaurant: A cozy Valley Head breakfast and comfort‑food spot (Review)

Tiger’s Inn unfolds like a happy hometown find: a bright, friendly diner that serves hearty Southern breakfasts, generous meat‑and‑three lunches, and a laid‑back Sunday brunch. Expect well‑executed classics; fluffy pancakes, crispy hashbrowns, perfectly cooked eggs, and comforting daily specials; served in generous portions at wallet‑friendly prices. Warm, attentive service and thoughtful touches (jam choices, regular check‑ins, and prompt refills) give the place a welcoming, family‑run feel that keeps locals coming back and makes first‑time visitors feel right at home. Location and vibe • Address : 132 Commerce Ave, Valley Head, AL 35989-4259. • Street presence : The storefront is quietly charming; white brick, a vintage‑style circular Tiger’s Inn sign, and a bright “OPEN” door that invites foot traffic and neighbors inside. A bench and seasonal wreath add small‑town warmth. • Interior vibe : Inside feels like a friendly hometown diner; warm wooden floors, simple black tables, and a ...
Level Up: Read More »