Afil Games is back with another dose of space-themed Sokoban puzzles, this time in Stellar Docks: Deep Space.
Stellar Docks: Deep Space, the follow-up to Stellar Docks, is now available on Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation, and PC. Once again you’ll be guiding an astronaut as they push drones to their charging docks across 40 new levels, spread across a variety of sci-fi environments.
The core gameplay remains the same: it’s a grid-based puzzle game where you need to strategically move drones to their designated docks, one step at a time. The game promises “intuitive controls” and a “satisfying progression,” with each environment introducing new mechanics. You’ll be solving puzzles inside a spaceship, on the Moon, on Mars, and even on Neptune.
Will Deep Space Fix the Flaws?
Now, we have to be honest. We weren’t huge fans of the original Stellar Docks. We reviewed it recently and gave it a 2/5, saying: “Stellar Docks fails to deliver anything close to challenging with its Sokoban setup. Having forty levels is more of a hindrance than a positive when the same mechanic is heavily relied upon for the duration. There are no new ideas, nor anything fresh, introduced along the way and increasing the quantity of drones doesn’t even raise the stakes like it should. Therefore, you’re left with a mind-numbing puzzler that provides zero mental stimulation.“
We found the original to be repetitive and lacking in challenge. The question is: has Stellar Docks: Deep Space addressed these issues?
The promise of “four unique environments, each introducing new puzzle mechanics” is a hopeful sign, but we’ll have to wait and see if it’s enough to elevate the gameplay.
Features to (Hopefully) Look Forward To
- Engaging Grid-Based Logic Gameplay: The core Sokoban formula returns.
- Unlimited Undo and Level Restarts: Experiment without penalty.
- 40 Challenging Levels: Explore a spaceship interior, the Moon, Mars, and Neptune.
- Immersive Pixel Art: A charming 2D pixel art style in a sci-fi setting.
- Available on Xbox One and Xbox Series X|S.
A Second Chance for Stellar Docks?
Stellar Docks: Deep Space is available now through the Xbox Store, with you take the Xbox Series X|S Optimised version, or that which plays nicely on Xbox One.
Alternatively, grab the Xbox Bundle for £6.69, or the Xbox + Windows Bundle for £8.79 if you wish to play on PC too.
We’re cautiously optimistic that Afil Games will have taken feedback from the first game to heart and delivered a more engaging and challenging puzzle experience this time around. We’ll be diving in to see if Deep Space can reach the stars, or if it’s destined to remain docked in the hangar. Look for our full review soon.
Stellar Docks: Deep Space Description
Embark on an interstellar puzzle adventure in Stellar Docks, a grid-based logic game featuring charming 2D pixel art. Guide an astronaut as they push drones to their charging docks across challenging maps filled with strategic puzzles. With a top-down view and intuitive controls, the game offers a satisfying progression that will test your problem-solving skills. From the interiors of a spaceship to the icy landscapes of Neptune, explore diverse environments and unravel intricate challenges that push your mastery of each mechanic.
