What are the pros of Cultist Simulator?

Exceptional and evocative writing that creates a unique sense of mystery and wonder comparable to classic RPGs.. Deeply rewarding engine-building mechanics for players who enjoy complex, experimental systems.. High replayability with numerous secrets and different paths to explore.. A unique and atmospheric aesthetic that successfully captures a 'lunatic' or occult vibe..

What are the cons of Cultist Simulator?

Punishing trial-and-error nature where experimentation often leads to instant death and lost progress.. Repetitive 'plate-spinning' gameplay loop that can feel like a grindy chore after the initial discovery phase.. Opaque mechanics and lack of guidance often necessitate the use of external wikis to progress.. Slow pace and high risk of failure can make the game feel like it wastes the player's time..

Cultist Simulator

Seize forbidden treasures. Summon alien gods. Feed on your disciples. Cultist Simulator is a game of apocalypse and yearning. Play as a seeker after unholy mysteries, in a 1920s-themed setting of hidden gods and secret histories.

80%

Very Positive

DeveloperWeather Factory

PublisherWeather Factory

Release DateMay 31, 2018

$19.99

Peak Players3.1K

Metacritic71

PlatformsWindows · macOS · Linux

Indie

RPG

Simulation

AI Review Summary

Cultist Simulator is a polarizing occult narrative game that pairs exceptional, atmospheric writing with a punishingly opaque card-based engine-building system. While it offers a deeply rewarding sense of discovery for patient players, many find the gameplay loop to be a repetitive 'plate-spinning' grind that frequently results in frustrating, sudden failure.

Pros

Exceptional and evocative writing that creates a unique sense of mystery and wonder comparable to classic RPGs.90%
Deeply rewarding engine-building mechanics for players who enjoy complex, experimental systems.80%
High replayability with numerous secrets and different paths to explore.70%
A unique and atmospheric aesthetic that successfully captures a 'lunatic' or occult vibe.60%

Cons

Punishing trial-and-error nature where experimentation often leads to instant death and lost progress.90%
Repetitive 'plate-spinning' gameplay loop that can feel like a grindy chore after the initial discovery phase.80%
Opaque mechanics and lack of guidance often necessitate the use of external wikis to progress.80%
Slow pace and high risk of failure can make the game feel like it wastes the player's time.70%

Notable Mentions

Reviewers frequently suggest using a wiki to navigate the game's opaque mechanics and locations.
The game is often compared to its successor, Book of Hours, which is seen by some as a more refined experience.
Several reviewers mention the developer's personal controversy as a factor in their recommendation.

Confidence: 92%

Based on the 53 most relevant reviewsGenerated on Oct 6, 2026

Game Vitals

Live snapshot

Player Activity

Current peak

216

Peak · last 90 days

715

All-time peak

3.1K

Price

Current price

$19.99

Lowest tracked

$4.99since Jan 27, 2026

Review Sentiment

Last 30 days

78%

All-time positive

80%

Review Statistics

Total Reviews14.3K

Positive: 11.4K (80%)Negative: 2.9K (20%)

Reviews from Steam Deck

Dev Response Rate

37h

Avg Playtime at Review

60%

Credible Reviews