LumiKin
Tharsis

Review · RPG · PlayStation 4 · Nintendo Switch · iOS

Tharsis

By the LumiKin editors

Reviewed: 17 May 2026

PlayStation 4 · Nintendo Switch · iOS · PC · macOS

Choice Provisions · 2016

LumiScore

61/100

Good

Growth (BDS)

45

Risk (RIS)

6

Daily limit

120min

Age guidance

13+

Developmental benefits

B1Cognitive
0.68
B2Social-emotional
0.30
B3Motor
0.10

Tharsis is a challenging turn-based strategy game that heavily engages problem-solving, strategic thinking, and critical thinking as players manage a crew through a series of disasters on a mission to Mars. The game also presents significant ethical dilemmas, particularly with the inclusion of cannibalism as a survival mechanic, fostering emotional regulation and ethical reasoning.

Design risks

R1Dopamine pressure
0.13
R2Monetization
0.00
R3Social risk
0.00

The game presents very low risks in terms of dopamine manipulation, monetization, and social interaction, as it is a single-player experience with no microtransactions or social features. Content risks are moderate due to the themes of violence (cannibalism) and fear/horror related to survival and maintaining sanity in space.

Heads up

  • Monthly spendTypical real-money spend by engaged players: $0–0/mo.
Avg playtime~4 hReviewedMay 2026How scores are calculated →

Parents ask…

Is Tharsis safe for kids?

LumiKin gives Tharsis a LumiScore of 61/100, recommended for ages 13 and up. It offers solid benefits but needs parental guidance on the risks.

What age is Tharsis appropriate for?

LumiKin's rubric recommends a minimum age of 13+ for Tharsis, based on benefits, risks, and content review.

How long should kids play Tharsis?

LumiKin's recommended play time for Tharsis is Up to 2 hours/day, calibrated to the game's dopamine, monetization, and social-pressure profile.

What are the main risks of Tharsis?

The game presents very low risks in terms of dopamine manipulation, monetization, and social interaction, as it is a single-player experience with no microtransactions or social features. Content risks are moderate due to the themes of violence (cannibalism) and fear/horror related to survival and maintaining sanity in space.