The Next Prospect?

Icarus takes the open world survival genre and attempts to flip it on its head, making it less about just getting a base up and running, but more contract focused. You see, you aren't on the planet for an unlimited time, but instead are there for a purpose. Get in, complete the prospect, get out - simple... Let me start with the easiest part to critique, the graphics, simply put they are truly gorgeous. Forests are lush with greenery and different types of fauna, the ponds and lakes are invitingly blue and when all hell breaks loose and the world is on fire, you can't help but take a step back and think "beautiful". The only trouble being that there isn't that much else to look at. You can build yourself a base, but the whole point of Icarus is that you are down onto the world, do your contract and then you leave again. So building a stunning looking base is kind of beside the point. A quick functional place will do. The fun of Icarus comes when playing with others, standing and watching our base burn down following a lightning strike with my fellow prospectors was very funny. One was desperately trying to beat the flames out with a whacker while myself and another tried to empty the property of our possessions before there was nothing left. The game is currently in early access, so I am excited to see where this one goes, I will be returning to it every month or so to see what's new and if it can hold my interest. ——— Original ratings: • Visual Design: 10/10 • Sound Design: 7/10 • Gameplay: 7/10 • Longevity: 8/10 • Fun: 8/10