The Planet Crafter: overwhelming positive reactions and day-one availability on Xbox Game Pass

In short

• The Planet Crafter is an open-world survival-crafting game coming to Xbox Game Pass on 21 July 2026.
• The game has received more than 36,000 reviews on Steam, earning an Overwhelmingly Positive rating.
• Players can transform a lifeless planet into a world capable of supporting life, with no combat involved.

GAME-scanner analysis

The Planet Crafter has quickly established itself as a strong contender in the open-world survival genre. With its unique focus on terraforming and exploration, without the pressure of combat, it offers a refreshing experience for players looking for a more relaxed gameplay loop. The comparison to Subnautica, while subjective, highlights the game’s appeal for fans of the genre. Its high Steam score, backed by more than 36,000 reviews, confirms that the community is enthusiastic about the gameplay and the possibilities the game offers.

What does this mean for players?

For players with an Xbox Game Pass subscription, day-one access to The Planet Crafter is a great opportunity to try this innovative game at no extra cost. The option to play cooperatively with friends makes it even more appealing. This could set a new standard for how survival games are experienced, especially for those who prefer creativity and exploration over combat.