The space strategy game uses real missions to simulate the exploration of Mars

There are many strategy games out there, some even with a space theme. But a new game from Auroch Digital has nothing but the European Space Agency (ESA) to make it even more realistic on this mission. Mars Horizon aims to make the player feel like they are on a real Martian exploration mission, acting only behind the scenes of the project.

In the game, players manage the scientific focus of the mission and must also deal with issues such as public support and fundraising, without neglecting the role of other space agencies that have the same objectives involving the Red Planet, deciding whether to work together or if you have the necessary preparation for a “solo career”.

On what happens in the game missions, ESA raises the following: “You are controlling your space agency at the beginning of the space age, with the ultimate goal of putting your feet on the surface of Mars. What technologies should you research? rockets should you build? Should you aim for the moon first or go straight to the Red Planet? “

And don’t think it’s a light game, to relieve the stress of everyday life. ESA ensures that the game is tense, based on turns that directly determine its success or failure, as every decision made there is critical to this. “Will you spend time repairing a faulty antenna or saving energy in the event of a fuel leak? Maybe risking another three months in mission planning could prevent disaster?” – are some of the important decisions you should make in cold blood.

To create a realistic storyline that truly parallels real-world space activities, the game was supported by ESA officials, including members of the ExoMars mission. They have been consulted on the actual process of planning and executing a Martian mission, and the European space agency has also partnered with tests to improve the game’s gameplay.

Mars Horizon was released worldwide in November and is available for PC, Xbox One, PlayStation 4 and Nintendo Switch.

Source: ESA, The Irregular Corporation