Before We Leave is a city-building game that focuses on the peaceful side of civilization growth. The player takes control of a reborn civilization in a “cozy corner of the universe” and must nurture that civilization by managing resources and sharing goods. As the player’s civilization spreads to other planets, trade plays a more important role.

The most obvious comparisons to make with Before We Leave would, of course, be something like Sid Meier’s Civilization IV or Cities: Skylines. However, unlike the former, there is no combat element, making the game more of a relaxing experience.

The rebirth of a civilization

The game's story holds that the planet's people, who the player must control, have spent generations underground. Having emerged for the first time in a long time, they have forgotten how to do many important things like grow food. The player must guide their people with research and trade to expand their civilization to other planets.

Research and trade

Resource management and research are the main tools the player will need to succeed. Research is needed to unlock new abilities to push the civilization on, whereas trade and adequate resource management will ensure that civilization, as a whole, can thrive by pooling the resources at their disposal.

A casual experience

While the game is not entirely without conflict, it is very clearly aimed at players who enjoy city-building games but do not enjoy the hostile combat side of things. For players who fit this bill, Before We Leave will be an enticing prospect, though it can still serve as a fun casual experience for others.