"Factorio": Active development ends with version 2.1

The upcoming update 2.1 will be the last major patch for “Factorio,” developer Wube Software announced in a blog post. Thereafter, the Czech studio wants to switch to long-term maintenance of the sci-fi factory simulation.

In the blog post, the studio writes that after update 2.1, they will focus on bug fixes, platform compatibility, and modding improvements. “We feel we've reached a good place to conclude the active gameplay development,” it states.

Update 2.1 is expected to include quality-of-life improvements, minor new features, bug fixes, and game polish. There will be no new planets, enemies, or research trees. The studio is generally satisfied with the current state of the game, with progression and balance being largely correct.

Experimental at the end of June

After a final closed beta phase, 2.1 is scheduled to be released as an experimental version by the end of June. Those who wish to test the update must activate it manually via Steam. The testing phase before the release is intended to give mod authors sufficient time to adapt their mods for the final release of 2.1, which is not yet scheduled.

“Factorio” was released in Early Access in February 2016 and launched as version 1.0 in August 2020. In October 2024, the game received a major expansion with the release of “Space Age,” and the 2.0 update: “Space Age” added four new planets, each with its mechanics.

“Factorio” is one of the first and most successful factory simulations; many see the title as the progenitor of the genre, which dozens of games now emulate. From a bird's-eye view, players build factories, conveyor belts, and logistics chains to process raw materials into high-tech products. The game is known for its uncompromising complexity. In contrast to the also popular “Satisfactory,” defending the base against alien creatures also plays an important role.

According to Wube, they are already working on new game prototypes but have not yet provided any further details.

(dahe)