Freebie Feelers... Super Motherload

Freebie Feelers is a series where we download the free monthly console-specific or newly released free-to-play games to test their worth.This series will contain some useful information as well as plenty of personal opinion. While these articles may not be reviews, we hope that you will be able to use them to help decide whether that free download is worth it.

What is it?

Super Motherload is a game about mining for rare and precious resources under the surface of Mars set in an alternate Cold War era. With single-player and up to four-player couch co-op, players can dig, fly and explode their way through the surface of Mars to uncover riches and mysteries. With a procedurally-generated world, every time you play there is plenty to explore and encounter as characters, missions and upgrades become available. Of course, things are not always what they seem down here deep below the surface of Mars. 

What did you think?

Super Motherload starts a bit slow and confusing as you pick an avatar and get dropped on the surface of Mars. You are working for the Solarus Corporation who always have your safety in mind, apparently. In your rather cute mining machine you will drive, drill and fly your way through the shafts to recover materials and gems. What is interesting about this title is that no matter how many players you all share the same fuel gauge. This is always going down but will go down faster when you drill. Once it’s empty you can still move around without any trouble but you won’t be able to drill. To refill your fuel, and drop off your gathered materials you can stop off at the base on the surface or one of the many outposts you will find during your dig.

The core gameplay loop of Super Motherload is simple to understand but very rewarding and relaxing in practice. The title soon delivers an ongoing wave of character and charm by means of dialogue that you unlock by traveling deeper into the depths of Mars. Each transmission you get, including the main story ones, are brilliant and will have you on the edge of your seat as you continue to dig towards the deepest parts of Mars. By purchasing upgrades and items such as bombs, you can improve your vehicle to empower your mining abilities. Mine all that you can, exchange it for cash and then purchase upgrades is the main loop in this title.

Is it worth downloading?

Super Motherload is an interesting little title that delivers addictive gameplay wrapped in an engaging sci-fi story. The only shortfall the title has is that the menu loading times can be a bit long on the PlayStation 3, but once you are in game, all is smooth. If you are looking for a fun game which offers couch co-op then makes sure to grab this one as part of the PlayStation Plus lineup for August.