After five years in development, Satisfactory, the popular factory-building and automation game from Coffee Stain Studios, has finally left Early Access and launched its long-awaited 1.0 version. Fans have been eagerly anticipating this release, and the developers have rewarded their patience with a major content update and a celebratory discount. Whether you’re new to the game or a seasoned player, here’s everything you need to know about this milestone.
The Journey from Early Access to Full Release
Launched on Epic Games Store in 2019 and hitting Steam Early Access in 2020, Satisfactory quickly gained a devoted following thanks to its complex mechanics, open-world exploration, and emphasis on automation. Over the years, the game amassed more than 146,000 “Overwhelmingly Positive” reviews on Steam, solidifying its place as one of the best-rated titles in its genre. Now, as of September 10, 2024, Satisfactory has officially left Early Access with its version 1.0 update.
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What’s New in Satisfactory 1.0?
The 1.0 update brings a wealth of content, ranging from gameplay enhancements to aesthetic updates. Here’s a breakdown of some of the most exciting new features:
1. The Final Phase of Project Assembly
Satisfactory’s story is now complete with the introduction of Phase 5 of Project Assembly, allowing players to finish the game’s core storyline. This final phase includes five Tier 9 Milestones that introduce new resources, production lines, and buildings based on quantum technology. If you’re deep into the late game, this will push your automation skills to the limit.
2. New Buildings and Resources
Tier 9 introduces high-tech structures such as the Quantum Encoder, which is used to produce advanced materials like Superposition Oscillators and Neural-Quantum Processors. The Converter building lets players transmute raw materials, turning excess Limestone into Iron or Caterium into Copper, making resource management even more flexible.
3. Conveyor Belts Mk. 6
For those who love speeding up their production lines, the new Conveyor Belt Mk. 6 allows you to transport up to 1,200 items per minute, an upgrade from the Mk. 5’s 780 items.
4. Cosmetic and Customization Options
Version 1.0 also delivers new options for character and factory customization. You can now modify your pioneer’s appearance with customizable helmets, Build Gun skins, and even factory cosmetics like steel-framed windows and construction fences. For factory enthusiasts, this update offers a chance to make your creations not only efficient but also aesthetically pleasing.
5. Portals and Alien Technology
One of the most exciting additions is the introduction of portals, which allow for near-instant travel between factories. These portals come at a cost, requiring Singularity Cells and massive amounts of power, but they offer unmatched convenience for sprawling factory setups.
Achievements and Quality-of-Life Updates
Satisfactory fans have long been asking for achievements, and version 1.0 delivers. There are now 44 achievements on both Steam and Epic Games, adding an extra layer of challenges for completionists.
Coffee Stain has also introduced a number of quality-of-life improvements, such as the ability to dismantle blueprints more efficiently and build straight conveyor belts. These tweaks will make the game smoother and more enjoyable, especially for veteran players with complex setups.
Player Surge and Patch Notes
The excitement surrounding the 1.0 release is evident in the numbers. Satisfactory’s concurrent player peak on Steam soared by a staggering 1,900%, jumping from 6,000 to 120,000 players following the update. This massive surge highlights just how eagerly the community has awaited the game’s full release.
For those interested in the finer details, the complete patch notes for version 1.0 include over 3,000 bug fixes, optimizations to the save system, and improvements to multiplayer performance.
Celebratory Discount and Pricing
To celebrate the official release, Coffee Stain is offering a 10% discount on Satisfactory, bringing its price down to $35.99 on both Steam and the Epic Games Store until September 24, 2024. This sale comes after a recent price hike from $29.99 to $39.99 in August, with the developers citing increased content and inflation as reasons for the adjustment.
Is It Time to Rebuild?
With the numerous changes to resource nodes and progression, players may need to adjust their existing factories. If you’re continuing an old save, some narrative elements might not trigger, and certain milestones may need to be unlocked again. However, the option to start fresh and experience the full story as intended is also a compelling reason to dive back into the game from the beginning.
Satisfactory’s full release marks a major milestone for both Coffee Stain Studios and its dedicated community. Whether you’re returning to complete Project Assembly or diving in for the first time, Satisfactory version 1.0 offers an exciting and polished experience. With new buildings, resources, and customizations to explore, there’s never been a better time to build the factory of your dreams.
Make sure to grab the game at a discount before September 24 and start optimizing those production lines!
What are your thoughts on Satisfactory’s 1.0 release? Let us know in the comments or on social media!
