Dwarf Fortress is a Simulation, Strategy game from Bay 12 Games with a 95% positive Steam review signal. Indie Lantern indexes it for players browsing by weird, single-player.
Game snapshot
- Developer
- Bay 12 Games
- Release year
- 2022
- Playtime
- Varies by player
- Price
- $23.99
- Review signal
- 95% positive
Screenshots
System requirements
PC
- Minimum
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system OS: XP SP3 or later Processor: Dual Core CPU – 2.4GHz+ Memory: 4 GB RAM Graphics: 1GB of VRAM: Intel HD 3000 GPU / AMD HD 5450 / Nvidia 9400 GT Storage: 500 MB available space Additional Notes: Requires 64 bit processor and operating system
- Recommended
- Requires a 64-bit processor and operating system Processor: Dual Core CPU – 4GHz+ Memory: 4 GB RAM Storage: 500 MB available space
From Steam reviews
Review notes
Dwarf Fortress is worth a closer look if you want base building, management, colony sim, and chaotic fun.
Best for players who want chaotic fun, gothic, base building, and management.
Check more carefully if you dislike unclear onboarding.
base-building
Play styleBuilding a base, settlement, or colony is part of the loop.
management
Play styleThe game asks you to run, improve, or balance a system over time.
colony-sim
Play styleThe game is about keeping a group, base, or settlement working.
chaotic-fun
ToneThe appeal is messy, funny, and unpredictable rather than polished calm.
farming
Play styleFarming, crops, or harvesting are part of the appeal.
gothic
SettingGothic spaces, monsters, or architecture shape the mood.
confusing-onboarding
FrictionThe first hours can be unclear without patience or outside help.
exploration
Play styleThe draw is moving through spaces, discovering details, and learning the world.
Steam review snapshots
Also the vampire and necromancer systems are so incredibly fun to play with.I've never been able to use step ladders or harvest from trees.The most amazing open world sim out there.Probably the best city builder/colony builder of all time.Why it fits
Best for players who want base building, management, colony sim, and a weird tone. It combines base building, management, colony sim, farming, and exploration with a chaotic, gothic mood.
Who might skip it
Skip it if you dislike unclear onboarding or want a smoother first hour.