Shattered Planet

Lore & Background

The game is set on a broken planet that constantly changes, creating randomly generated maps for each level. The player navigates a turn-based, tile-based map, exploring as much of the world as possible. The objective is to explore levels while cataloging alien wildlife to find a cure for a dark plague spreading across the galaxy. The plague spawns along with the player in each level, spreading and spawning additional monsters as the player moves. The player advances by locating and activating a teleportation tile, collecting scrap metal and crystals from slain enemies. Bottles with random effects are generated throughout each level, providing potential buffs or debuffs. Upon death, the player loses all equipment and bottles, but a new clone retains any scrap metal and crystals. Different clones are available, each with a special ability and stats. Scrap metal can be used before a new game to purchase permanent stat upgrades for the selected clone. Crystals are used to produce weapons and armor, with over two hundred differently powerful items to find.

Reader's Guide

Shattered Planet received positive reviews from critics, with a Metacritic score of 77/100. Richard Cobbett from PC Gamer gave the game 64/100, describing it as 'a clever, charming game' but noting that 'it lacks the spark that makes return visits feel like a fresh adventure rather than a completionist chore.' The game's roguelike structure, with permadeath and randomly generated levels, combined with its cloning mechanic and item-crafting system, offered a distinct take on the genre. Its release across iOS, Android, and PC platforms in 2014 made it accessible to a wide audience. The emphasis on cataloging alien wildlife as a core objective, rather than simply combat or survival, set it apart from many contemporary roguelikes. The plague mechanic, which actively spreads and spawns monsters based on player movement, added a dynamic pressure to exploration. While some critics found the replay value diminished over time, the game's design was recognized for its cleverness and charm.

Did You Know?

• The player assumes the role of a clone who is tasked with researching and cataloging alien wildlife.
• The plague spawns along with the player in each level and spreads as the player moves.
• There are over two hundred differently powerful items to find within the game.