Upload Labs is a new free-to-play resource management game on Steam, which has received "Very Positive" reviews since its launch on October 3. Games with resource management themes have long been popular on Steam, with recent hits like Factorio attracting hundreds of thousands of players.
Another successful resource management game in recent years is Satisfactory, a sci-fi-themed title that lets players build and expand factories while exploring intriguing locations. While Upload Labs may not be as expansive as Factorio or Satisfactory, it has still attracted many fans of the genre, and its player base appears to be growing rapidly.
New Steam Idle Game with 'Very Positive' Reviews Is Free to Play
Fans of idler and clicker games on Steam now have a new free title with promising reviews to play while working or studying on their PCs.
Upload Labs Is a Resource Management Game with Idler and Clicker Mechanics
According to Upload Labs' Steam page, it is a sci-fi management game focused on building a computer. Players don't need advanced knowledge of computing systems, as the core gameplay revolves around connecting different components with nodes. Idler game elements are also central to the gameplay, as assembled systems may need time to run and upgrade in the background before players can expand their builds. Upload Labs currently has a Very Positive average user review score on Steam and is completely free to play, though it includes some in-game microtransactions.
Progression in Upload Labs involves basic mechanics like hacking, coding, and researching. Through these functions, players work to unlock advanced components, upgrade their automated systems, and develop an artificial intelligence that eventually becomes an advanced artificial general intelligence (AGI) to save the game's sci-fi universe. Fans of resource management and automation games should note that Upload Labs simplifies most aspects of building automated systems using a node-based mechanic focused on connecting the right computer parts. Therefore, the game may not appeal to those looking to create highly complex systems with multi-layered functionality.
Upload Labs also offers several paid DLCs, primarily designed to speed up player progress. For example, the Time Generator pack provides extra Rest Time production and capacity, making it easier to access more advanced features. Buying all DLC packs could cost around $20 USD, but it's important to note that all extra content is optional. Players can still build various systems and complete the game using the free version.
Those looking for more free-to-play Steam games like Upload Labs can try Unnamed Space Idle, which lets players build and upgrade a spacecraft and send it into battle against hostile aliens. The sci-fi setting and management elements in both games are likely to appeal to the same audience and keep them engaged for hours.
