REVIEW: Save the Solar System from Dying Stars in ‘Solar Flux’ (Switch)

In the world of video games, the discussion of space usually leads to interstellar nightmares or interplanetary civil war that spans a solar system. As a “space nerd” myself, I am always fascinated by different interpretations of life in the stars.

Solar Flux, from the appropriately named Firebrand Games, is a game where players are tasked with saving the stars of various star systems. There are no wars to fight, but there are battles to win. Only these battles are to save these stars and save millions of lives with them. While Solar Flux is a simple offering, it is a good one for the Nintendo Switch, especially for those who need a quick, different experience in between bigger games.

If players know their scientific facts about astronomy, they will be fascinated with Solar Flux, as well as understand why the mission to save the stars is an imperative one. Stars, like our sun, are gargantuan balls of burning gases, burning and reacting with each other. These stars have been burning brightly for billions of years. However, these spheres of light and heat cannot escape death.

Eventually, the gases that keep stars burning brightly eventually run out. Eventually, the stars collapse into a space-shattering explosion, known as a supernova.  If a supernova were to occur in our solar system, the Earth would be completely vaporized, along with all the planets and potentially nearby star systems.

Solar Flux uses simple button prompts and astrophysics to challenge the player and encourage them to think about how they will save the stars in the galaxy. The game contains four different galaxies with 80 levels total. The objective of each level is to reignite the stars. To do this, players will collect small orbs of plasma before launching it at the nearby star.

Along the way, players will have to contend with a variety of spaceborne hazards. These hazards include asteroids, laser grids, comets, and even the stars as they decay. Players pilot a particular starship capable of reigniting the stars through specialized plasma. Players need careful maneuvering for planets and obstacles, using the power of gravity and minimal thrusts. All those players have to do is reignite the stars, but players can also compete on the leaderboard for rank by completing special objectives and reigniting the stars as quick as they can.

Solar Flux is a neat and engaging gameplay experience. There is a calmness but intriguing reward to playing a game without weapons or combat. Using the touch-screen of the Switch, I was able to launch my ship and use the orbits of nearby planets as a form of propulsion.

Visually, the game looked quite sharp, with flowing depths and bright colors, giving the sensation of being on a deep-space voyage. Each galaxy has its own distinct look and feel as well, giving it a nice variety of locations and levels.  Each time I completed a level, I immediately wanted to go to the next level, making it quick and accessible without being overwhelming.

Overall, Solar Flux is a nice, solid puzzle game on the Nintendo Switch. Its fascinating visuals and unique gameplay will keep players challenged and rewarded all the way through its massive galaxies. Firebrand Games has created a captivating puzzle game with unique dynamics and visuals that will be a solid good time for all players, especially when you need a quick break from all the bigger games out there. Get out there and salute the sun.

Solar Flux is out now on the Nintendo Switch.