When comparing Minecraft vs Kerbal Space Program, the Slant community recommends Kerbal Space Program for most people. In the question“What are the best PC games for kids?” Kerbal Space Program is ranked 4th while Minecraft is ranked 11th. The most important reason people chose Kerbal Space Program is:
The physics engine does a reasonably accurate job of replicating the fundamentals behind both orbital dynamics and rocket design, so by going through the tutorials and experimenting, you're actually learning some real rocket science.
Specs
Ranked in these QuestionsQuestion Ranking
Pros
Pro Great creativity tool
If you prefer building, creative mode is the way to go. It immediately gives you unlimited blocks, the ability to fly, and immortality. This allows you to easily build anything you want without worrying about height or enemies. Things like giant castles, villages, roller coasters, and even unique builds such as the Enterprise from Star Trek. You can really let your creativity loose.
Pro Randomly generated worlds and distinct locations keep the gameplay fresh
Each new world is randomly generated, making for a different experience every time. There can be plains, rivers, beaches, ravines, giant mountains, hidden villages, and a lot more.
There are also 38 biomes, which includes snow, desert, forest, swamp among others. Each one has its own set of unique blocks, plant life, and creatures.
You won't get tired of exploring above ground or underground because every location will seem new and exciting.
Pro Amazing extended community
The community surrounding this game is huge due to its popularity. There are lots of servers and projects revolving around it that allow for so many different choices in how one wants to play and who they want to play with. From crafting guides/videos, themed servers and YouTube play sessions, there is enough out there to help one find what they are looking for.
Pro Local multiplayer option for when there is no internet
Minecraft can be played by 4 players locally via splitscreen. This makes it a great way spend time with your friends and family when you don't have access to the internet.
Pro Teaches orbital dynamics & rocket design fundamentals in an accessible manner
The physics engine does a reasonably accurate job of replicating the fundamentals behind both orbital dynamics and rocket design, so by going through the tutorials and experimenting, you're actually learning some real rocket science.
Pro Tons of stuff to do
Build rockets, space planes, space stations, rovers, landers, probes. Explore planets, moons, capture asteroids, set up a communications network, colonize a planet, mine for resources and much more. It can even simulate our solar system.
Pro Huge modding scene
There's a plethora of mods available that can change every single aspect of the game.
Pro Excellent construction sandbox for building and launching rockets
KSP at its core is a rocket building and launching sandbox. When creating a rocket you can place engines, fuel cells, structural elements, and even parachutes, allowing you to build a rocket in any shape and size. The end result can even look like a giant doughnut, which might be difficult to get it into outer space. Even if you fail, the entirety of the process is really enjoyable.
Pro Motivates you to learn
Kerbal Space Program puts into perspective how amazing the advancement of the human race is. It inspires you to learn our history, how we got here, and what we can do proceed.
Pro In constant development
KSP is a shinning example of early release done right. The currently available game is fun to play, and the developers are constantly adding new major additions.
Cons
Con Steep and time-consuming learning curve
Learning what items are needed to craft takes quite a bit of knowledge and time. There are guides and videos online that can help with this, but not much in-game that helps the player know exactly how and what to craft.
Con Lack of meaningful story mode
There is no story mode in Minecraft: there is only a create mode or a survival mode. Neither, however, supply any kind of story or background as regard what is going on in the game.
Con Still involves killing other things
In order to progress through the game and craft items, players will need to kill other things such as skeletons, zombies and monsters which may not be seen as child-friendly or can result in frightening situations.
Con Some visuals are poorly done
While the rockets, buildings, and even the Kerbals look pretty good, the environments and particle effects are a bit lacking.
Con Steep learning curve
Kerbal Space Program is not really a pick up and play title. It can take hours just go grasp the basics and the game will keep throwing new concepts at you as you progress into space, even stuff like orbital dynamics. Because of this, it can easily take dozens of hours to truly master this game.