
Review · Strategy · PC
Per Aspera
By the LumiKin editors
Reviewed: 20 May 2026
PC
Tlön Industries · 2020
LumiScore
69/100
Good
Growth (BDS)
54
Risk (RIS)
3
Daily limit
120min
Age guidance
—
Developmental benefits
| B1 | Cognitive | 0.80 | |
| B2 | Social-emotional | 0.40 | |
| B3 | Motor | 0.10 | |
Per Aspera is a deep and engaging planetary simulation game that strongly promotes cognitive development. Players will hone their problem-solving, strategic thinking, and spatial awareness as they manage resources, build infrastructure, and terraform Mars. The game integrates real-life scientific and engineering principles, offering a unique opportunity for learning transfer and critical thinking. Its narrative also encourages ethical reasoning as players make choices that impact their mission and relationships with their AI crew.
Design risks
| R1 | Dopamine pressure | 0.07 | |
| R2 | Monetization | 0.00 | |
| R3 | Social risk | 0.00 | |
Per Aspera presents very low risks across all categories. It is a single-player experience with no microtransactions, loot boxes, or social pressures. Dopamine manipulation mechanics are absent, and content risks are minimal, focusing on a compelling science fiction narrative rather than violence or explicit themes. The game is designed for players to progress at their own pace, with natural stopping points.
Heads up
- Monthly spendTypical real-money spend by engaged players: $0–0/mo.