Oddsparks is this week’s Epic Games Store free game

Oddsparks is a charming, cozy little automation game which the Epic Games Store is giving away for free this week.

• Oddsparks
  • Release Date: April 24, 2024
  • Game Type: automation, logistics, RTS
  • POV: 3rd person, isometric
  • Party: Single Player, Co-op
  • DLC: There are both cosmetic packs and adventure packs to purchase.

Automation is one of those game genres which sounds fun on the box, but makes me feel supremely stupid when I actually play it. Oddsparks is a bit different. Now, I still have no idea what I’m doing and make a ton of mistakes, but at least when I do, I can go pet a Spark. All these little cuties really dull the annoyance. Oddsparks adds an extra new twist to the genre — instead of just building a little factory of adorable tree thingies, enemies will also come seige you from time to time. You also have to build defenses.

This also isn’t as open-ended as most automation-style games. There are quests to do and a whole story campaign to complete. Meet friendly fantasy-themed villagers, and slowly connect your workshops across the wilderness.

Despite being a genre that stymies me, this sounds like a truly good time. And, as usual, free is free — I’ll pick it up and chuck it out a window if it isn’t a vibe (but it really seems like a vibe).