All Will Fall is a post-apocalyptic settlement builder in a world that looks like something out of the Kevin Costner film Waterworld. In other words: Humanity has suffered a civilization ending event due to increasing water levels, drowning all the Earth’s cities under the icy cold saltwater. As things go, mankind clings on as a pitiful group of survivors tries to make a new home in this wet and doomed world. And it’s here where you step in, having to guide these castaways in rebuilding an existence for the remaining population.
Physics based building
Beyond the interesting setting, the game is backed up with a solid physics engine that is actually a major part of the game’s selling point. You see, structures need a solid foundation to not fall over. Which in the case of this scrappy survivalist setting means that you will have to constantly improvise to make it not come crashing down and killing everyone. It works really well, as space comes with a premium price, seeing as it’s so little of it in the middle of the ocean. So, you have to make the best out of what you have, and that can get tricky!
What somewhat worked against it is that I had structures only collapse in the building menu, which has a safety function, forces an ‘undo’ until your building can hold its weight. I feel it removes the danger of building stuff, but I assume things will and can dynamically collapse later on when your settlement becomes bigger and more sprawling. Or at least, I really hope so! Otherwise, this mechanic would be entirely wasted, and that would be a real shame.
The reason I think this is the case is that the water level eventually decreases, leaving your constructions hanging in the air without the support of the calming water. So, I can see some interesting scenarios of total city wipes in the future, if the structures aren’t secure enough when the water levels suddenly fade away permanently.
Ocean city
Otherwise, it seems to be a classic builder in the sense of you having to secure resources in many ways. I found the building aspect fascinating, in how it created a scrappy looking city without any aesthetic inputs from my side. It was very cozy and immersive watching the builders scramble all over my little floating shanty town, but don’t go expecting a Rimworld level of personality or needs here. The citizens seem to be on the robotic side. However, that’s not to say there isn’t stuff you can do for them, as happiness is a stat you will have to juggle.
All in all, I enjoyed the demo, making its way onto my endless wishlist on Steam. All Will Fall is certainly something to look forward to, if you want a relaxing builder in a cool and unique setting. Make sure to try out the demo for yourself!
Thanks for reading, and thanks to JarlFrank for the tip!
/Thomas
Tom's Gaming Vault 