Before We Leave is a strategy and simulation city building game set on hexagonal islands and planets in a peaceful corner of the universe. Players guide a newly emerged civilization of Peeps as they rebuild after generations spent underground, focusing on growth, resource management, and expansion across continents and into space.
Gameplay
The core loop centers on constructing settlements that meet the needs of the Peeps while balancing resources, pollution levels, and overall happiness. Settlements begin with basic structures and expand through gathering materials and researching ancient technologies left behind by previous civilizations. Research unlocks new buildings and efficiencies that help avoid repeating the environmental mistakes of the past.
Trade forms a key part of progression, with goods moved between settlements first by sea routes and later by space connections once multiple planets come into play. Players explore six distinct biomes across islands of varying shapes and sizes, each offering different resource opportunities and environmental considerations. Ancient beings, including hungry space whales, appear as challenges that require clever placement and research solutions rather than direct confrontation, since the game contains no weapons or combat systems.
Management extends to pollution control and happiness tracking to keep settlements stable as they grow. The pace remains relaxed, allowing players to expand at their own speed while uncovering technologies and connecting the solar system into a network of thriving worlds.
Game Modes
Before We Leave operates as a single-player experience with no separate competitive or multiplayer modes. The structure emphasizes freeform city building and exploration across islands and planets, where progress comes from steady development rather than timed objectives or rival factions. All activity stays within one continuous campaign that scales from initial surface settlements to full solar system connections.
Key Mechanics and Features
Resource chains require careful planning because each biome supplies unique materials that support different production paths. Pollution builds from certain buildings and activities, demanding ongoing adjustments to maintain Peep satisfaction. Happiness influences growth rates and stability, creating a feedback loop that rewards thoughtful layout and technology choices.
Expansion involves both horizontal growth across new islands and vertical progression into space travel. Sea trade starts early and evolves into interplanetary routes, linking distant settlements into an efficient network. Protection against ancient guardians relies on positioning, research, and timing rather than aggression, reinforcing the non-violent approach throughout the solar system.
Is It Worth Playing?
Before We Leave suits players who enjoy relaxed city builders focused on management and discovery instead of conflict. The game released in 2021 and maintains a Mostly Positive rating based on over 1,200 user reviews, with praise directed at its calm atmosphere and emphasis on sustainable growth. Those seeking a peaceful strategy simulation without combat or competitive pressure will find the mechanics rewarding, particularly the trade networks and biome variety that encourage long-term planning. Availability on PC makes it accessible for anyone interested in nurturing civilizations across multiple worlds at a deliberate pace.
