Blossom: The Seed of Life tasks the player with the ambitious project of transforming Mars into a lush and green world. Developed by a single creator, the game carries that forgiveable indie feel of being solid and fun yet having imperfect gameplay.
At first glance the presentation evokes comparisons to Astroneer, though the gameplay ultimately follows its own path. Progression centers on building systems, expanding infrastructure, and gradually altering the Martian environment through persistent terraforming efforts. No digging, no roaming other planets, no multiplayer.
Despite moments where progress appears on the fast side, the scale of the undertaking is so big you realize that some things going fast isn’t too bad. There remains a great deal of work between the first signs of transformation to the planet and a fully transformed planet.
Several systems stand out positively, particularly the vehicle mechanics which make exploration and resource harvesting satisfying. Other areas show rougher edges. The inventory system proves cumbersome early on before becoming more manageable once Automatic Storage units are unlocked. Additionally, the heavy reliance on the Q and E keys for multiple actions can lead to occasional frustration, and connecting or disconnecting hoses and wires sometimes feels slower than necessary.
On stream we got through to having liquid water and the early growth of algae is limited areas. The long-term goal of terraforming Mars provides a strong pull for me, and the project remains intriguing enough to justify future sessions — if the crowded release calendar allows it.
Mars is not yet green, but the work continues. I just don’t know when but I will terraform Mars.
Pronouncement: Still alive.