File under: extremely specific joys. Mars First Logistics just hit version 1.0, and if hauling weird cargo across an unforgiving landscape sounds soothing instead of stressful, you might have found your next time sink.
What this thing actually is
It is exactly what the title implies: you build mechanized rovers and deliver stuff on a big, open version of Mars. The map is procedurally generated, the jobs vary, and the game hands you a pile of modular parts that feels less like standard Legos and more like the fiddly, wonderful Lego Technic bin. If Rare's underappreciated Banjo-Kazooie: Nuts & Bolts is your love language (and if Tears of the Kingdom's build-anything energy lit you up), the DNA here is obvious.
From long simmer to full release
Developer Shape Shop says the 1.0 update arrives after more than two years in Steam Early Access and roughly five years of development. Their Steam post describes it as a 'big update' alongside the full launch, so expect meaningful additions rather than a version number sticker.
Why people are into it
Throughout Early Access, the game racked up a 96% 'Overwhelmingly Positive' rating on Steam. The comparisons keep circling the same two touchstones: Nuts & Bolts for the tinkering, and Death Stranding for the strangely meditative delivery loop. That is a very specific Venn diagram, and apparently it rules.
'Death Stranding washed in the blessed waters of Banjo Kazooie: Nuts and Bolts.'
'If you liked Death Stranding but wished it were chiller and let you build roads ANYWHERE (and had a ton of cool cars instead of walking everywhere)? YOU WILL LOVE THIS.'
Quick hits
- Developer: Shape Shop
- Status: Version 1.0 out now after 2+ years in Early Access (5 years total dev)
- Setting: Procedurally generated open-world Mars
- Gameplay: Build custom rovers and complete delivery missions
- Vibe check: Nuts & Bolts-style creativity meets Death Stranding-style chill logistics
- Co-op: Online co-op is in
- Price: $12 with a launch discount running through October 9
The bottom line
Between the build-anything sandbox and the relaxed, problem-solving deliveries, this scratches a very particular itch. The online co-op and that limited-time price make it even harder to ignore. My backlog is already judging me, but I might need to make room for a few Martian milk runs.