SteamWorld Heist vs its rivals

Side-by-side comparison against SteamWorld Heist's closest competitors — identity, store metrics, ratings & sentiment, and strategic intel.

Core Identity
DeveloperImage & Form International ABNetflix, Inc.PerchangRaw FuryHumble BundleSQUARE ENIXPlarium Global LtdScopely, Inc.
CategoryGamesGamesGamesGamesGamesGamesGamesGames
PlatformAndroid, iOSiOS, AndroidAndroid, iOSiOSiOS, AndroidAndroid, iOSAndroid, iOSiOS, Android
Store Metrics
Rating4.6 / 54.8 / 54.4 / 54.1 / 54.5 / 53.8 / 54.9 / 54.6 / 5
Ratings Count7155,1272,429350919225206,343303,282
PriceUSD4.99FreeFreeFreeFree$15.99FreeFree
Release DateNov 9, 2016Jul 1, 2022Sep 2, 2020May 4, 2023Jul 7, 2023Feb 23, 2012Jul 10, 2020Mar 28, 2018
Last UpdatedNov 14, 2016Dec 10, 2024Sep 30, 2024Apr 8, 2026Aug 19, 2025Apr 6, 2026Apr 14, 2026Apr 8, 2026
Sentiment & Reviews
Sentimentnegative-negativemixed-mixedmixedmixed
Score25/100-25/10045/100-45/10055/10042/100
Praises
  • Turn-based strategy mechanics provide deep tactical engagement for long-term players
  • One-time purchase model offers a fair value proposition without intrusive microtransactions
-
  • Turn-based tactical combat mechanics provide an engaging experience for fans of the genre
  • Engaging Gameplay
  • Art and Atmosphere
-
  • The core tactical puzzle gameplay provides a deeply engaging and challenging experience for strategy enthusiasts
  • Fast-paced combat and mech customization mechanics provide high replay value for casual players
  • Engaging Gameplay and Content
  • Frequent Updates
Complaints
  • Persistent login failures and authentication loops prevent access to the application
  • Lack of support for modern screen aspect ratios creates distracting visual bars
-
  • Frequent application crashes during combat and multiplayer sessions disrupt the core gameplay loop
  • Game-Breaking Bugs and Crashes
  • Save Data Loss
-
  • Critical technical failures including black screens and save data corruption prevent access to the game
  • Lack of controller support forces reliance on clunky touch controls that hinder tactical movement precision
  • Aggressive pay-to-win matchmaking pairs free players against high-spending opponents with superior gear
  • Aggressive Monetization
  • Technical Instability
Requests
  • Cloud save synchronization across multiple devices to enable seamless progress transfer
-
  • Implementation of cloud save functionality to prevent total progress loss during reinstallation
--
  • Native controller support is requested to improve precision and comfort during extended tactical play sessions
  • Skill-based matchmaking systems are needed to ensure fair competition for non-paying players
-
Strategic Intel
Strengths
  • Ecosystem network effects driven by massive PC user base
  • Steam Guard security standardizes account protection across the platform
  • High critical acclaim and proven game design
  • Premium, ad-free experience
  • High replayability via time-travel mechanics
  • Faithful Age of Sigmar aesthetic
  • Tactical depth in turn-based combat
  • Unique 2D side-scrolling strategy perspective
  • Exceptional pixel art and atmospheric sound design
  • Deep content library with multiple themed expansions
  • Procedural generation ensures no two runs are identical, sustaining long-term replayability
  • Four distinct character playstyles multiply content value for veteran players
  • Deep tactical grid-based combat system sustains long-term engagement
  • High-fidelity 3D map manipulation reinforces category authority
  • Cross-platform sync via Plarium Play drives session duration
  • Offline-capable engine lowers acquisition barriers in emerging markets
  • Tier-1 Marvel IP with high-fidelity character modeling
  • Best-in-class cinematic combat animations
  • Strong Alliance-based social engagement
Weaknesses
  • Persistent login failures block core functionality
  • Lack of cloud save synchronization across devices
  • Missing support for modern screen aspect ratios
  • Limited reach due to subscription gating
  • Lack of integrated social/community features
  • Frequent crashes during multiplayer sessions
  • No cloud-save despite 49-review sample requests
  • Aggressive monetization gating progression
  • Critical technical bugs (loading loops and crashes)
  • Frequent save data corruption and loss
  • Lack of a comprehensive in-game tutorial for new players
  • Apple Arcade exclusivity limits total addressable market
  • Lack of multiplayer modes restricts social-driven retention loops
  • Premium $15.99 price point on iOS exceeds tactical RPG median
  • Persistent save-data corruption prevents consistent session access
  • 0.63 rating gap between iOS and Android platforms
  • Matchmaking imbalances drive high-frequency pay-to-win complaints
  • Severe technical instability and frequent app crashes
  • Perceived 'pay-to-win' barriers in late-game meta
  • Dismissive customer support experiences
Pricingfreesubscriptionfreemiumsubscriptionfreepaidfreemiumfreemium
MomentumZombie-Zombie-SteadyMaintenanceActiveIntense
Update Cadence2 versions, ~3398d avg-5 versions-5 versions3 versions, 1 majors/6mo, ~563d avg5 versions, 1 majors/6mo, ~9d avg5 versions, 5 majors/6mo, ~7d avg

Compare SteamWorld Heist head-to-head

Disclosure: Independent intel to help mobile builders succeed.

AI-powered analysis with editorial review, built from publicly available sources. Marlvel.ai is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by SteamWorld Heist, its developer, the app publisher, Apple, or Google Play. All trademarks, logos, and screenshots referenced remain the property of their respective owners.

Data licensed under CC-BY-NC 4.0