When comparing Hack 'n' Slash vs Kerbal Space Program, the Slant community recommends Kerbal Space Program for most people. In the question“What are the best educational games on PC?” Kerbal Space Program is ranked 7th while Hack 'n' Slash is ranked 15th. 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 Intuitively uses coding as a main mechanic
Players can use their hacking abilities to subvert their enemies instead of just using a traditional weapon like a sword. For instance a user can plug into a rock in a level and reprogram the code of the rock to allow for it to be moved and how many spaces. It is an intuitive way to interact with objects and solve the puzzles in the game.
Pro Writing is clever and funny
Like the majority of Double Fine games, Hack 'n' Slash is very cleverly written with humor similar to the Adventure Time series and many jokes referencing the old Legend of Zelda cartoon. This is definitely something for those that get the references of its origins.
Pro Allows you to break the game
The game does not restrict or prevent the player from experimenting, and breaking the game (crashing it) is a common result. It's simple to load back to a previous point in the game and try again with a different strategy.
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 Design seems lazy at times
Things like a poorly designed map or often not knowing where to go which leads to back tracking that may not even help makes for frustrating play. Really it comes off as lazy more than a design decision.
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.