Main Sequence brings Satisfactory-style automation to space

Main Sequence has entered early access on PC, allowing players to build modular ships, space stations and production lines alone or in co-op multiplayer.

Developed by one-person studio Tumbling Dumpling Studio, the game starts with a small mining ship on the frontier of space. Players scan asteroids and planets for resource deposits, extract materials and refine them into components for a permanent base.

Factories use machines and conveyor belts to process materials through several production stages. The resulting components can expand the base, build new vessels and create station modules. Ships and stations are assembled from modular parts, allowing players to control their layouts and functions.

Research projects provide new modules and upgrades. Players can use them to expand their operations into other areas of space. Exploration can bring encounters with hostile forces, black holes and neutron stars. Players can build warships to fight enemies as their territory grows.

Main Sequence supports solo play and co-op multiplayer. Each player begins with an individual ship, allowing a group to work on one shared project or divide tasks between different parts of the game. The early-access release includes the core progression systems and about 40 hours of content, according to the developer.

Developer Kaiden Ho described the project in 2023: “I wanted to make a game I really wanted to play.” Ho had long enjoyed space simulation games and wanted a game that allowed players to walk around their ships and live aboard them. Modular ship construction and automated production were added later in development.

The early-access roadmap includes more endgame automation options, expanded outposts, new enemy types, improved factory blueprints and additional star systems. Planned additions include more weapons and decorative modules for customizing ships and stations.

Main Sequence is available in early access for $19.99 or £17.59 with a 20% launch discount through Nov. 26. The price will increase to $24.99 or £21.99 after the discount ends. A free demo is available.

Tumbling Dumpling Studio expects early access to last one to two years. The game will leave early access when it provides a complete and well-rounded experience. Its price is expected to increase again with the release of version 1.0.

Reviewed and fact-checked by Vlad Kipran on November 15.