Terraria meets Factorio in this sandbox RPG with monster girl companions

Fans of sandbox games rejoice. There may not yet be a Terraria 1.4.5 release date, but sandbox RPG Return From Core looks like it's ready to fill that hole in your life. Inspired by Core Keeper, but with all the automation goodness of Factorio, and monster girl companions, this is definitely one to check out while you wait for Terraria's next update. Even better, it's available right now.

Just when you think our list of the best sandbox games can't get any better, a new one appears and surprises you. Leaving early access with 'mostly positive' reviews, Return From Core is one to add to your sandbox must-play lists.

With an upgraded companion system, quality of life improvements, a fresh batch crafting system, and a new and mysterious Core level 8 where ruins from the Great Disaster and fallen megacities can be explored, there's no better time to dive into this game.

Driven underground after the destruction of the surface, you'll need to survive the dangers that lurk in the darkness and make an epic bid to return to the world above. In true Terraria fashion, you can dig, explore, and build in Return from Core to achieve your goal; delve into forgotten ruins, find and loot resources, and construct your own base to ensure your survival.

But don't worry, you won't need to face the dangers of this mysterious underground world alone; helpful monster girls are eagerly awaiting your arrival. Befriend, earn the trust of, and work with your newfound companions, each with their own distinct personalities and unique abilities.

What makes Return From Core stand out most from Terraria is its automation features. Even underground, you'll be able to master automated production and logistics systems to accelerate your return to the surface, unlock lost technology, and create powerful machinery to drive your super drill. All this and more awaits in Return From Core.

Return From Core is available on Steam now at 30% off for $11.89 / £10.00 until Friday August 1. While we wait for the latest on that upcoming Terraria update, you can check out the Steam page for Return From Core here.

If you're planning on returning to the Re-Logic classic ahead of its next big update, then make sure you read the latest on the best Terraria mods in our guide, or check out the best Terraria servers available now.

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