Giant Machines 2017 is an indie simulation game for PC that puts players in control of seven massive industrial machines. The experience centers on operating these vehicles through a connected series of tasks that build toward a single objective.
Gameplay
The core loop involves precise operation of heavy equipment with full physics simulation and analog-style controls for every actuator, boom, and bucket. Each machine features a recreated cockpit where players manage levers, pedals, and switches to perform actions such as digging, lifting, pushing, and transporting materials. First-person perspective allows walking around the interior and exterior of the vehicles to appreciate their scale against human figures, cars, and buildings placed on the map.
Tasks require crushing rock faces, shifting large volumes of earth or snow, severing steel structures, extracting ores, and hauling loads that include containers and even the space shuttle itself. The simulation emphasizes realistic movement speeds and handling that reflect the enormous size and weight of the equipment. Six distinct environments provide varied terrain and weather conditions that affect traction and visibility during operations.
Game Modes
The primary experience is a 14-mission campaign structured as one continuous story. Players progress through objectives across multiple sites to prepare and ultimately launch a space shuttle toward the International Space Station. Missions chain together logically, with earlier work enabling later stages of the project.
Time Attack becomes available after completing the campaign. This mode presents selected missions with time limits, awarding bronze, silver, or gold medals based on performance and recording results on a local high-score list.
A separate Machine Library functions as a reference section containing interactive 3D models of the available equipment along with technical specifications and performance details for each vehicle.
The Machines
Seven vehicles form the complete roster. The Bagger stands out for its ability to remove entire mountainsides. The Crawler serves as a heavy transport platform suited for moving the space shuttle. The Demolition machine handles cutting through pipes and scaffolding. The Bulldozer shifts earth, snow, and smaller obstacles. The Dumper carries large quantities of mined material. The Digger excavates rock both horizontally and vertically. The Car crane manages heavy container lifts with its reach and stability.
Is It Worth Playing?
Giant Machines 2017 remains a single-player experience with no ongoing seasons or post-launch content updates beyond minor patches released shortly after its 2016 launch. Steam user reviews stand at mixed, with 68 percent positive from 458 ratings. The title appeals most to players who enjoy deliberate, realistic heavy-machinery operation and do not mind slower pacing or dated visuals.
Those seeking fast action or modern graphical fidelity will likely find the simulation tedious or frustrating due to occasional glitches and the emphasis on methodical control inputs. Simulation enthusiasts interested in the scale and technical details of industrial equipment may still find value in the campaign structure and the opportunity to handle authentic-feeling machines across varied locations. The game suits a niche audience rather than broad appeal.
