Best Mining Games
If you're searching for games with great mining mechanics, there's no better place to look than the underground base of Minecraft. The game is famous for its intricate mining and blacksmithing mechanics, but which other games can you play for a similar experience?
There are plenty of other games that focus on mining for you to explore, from 2D sandbox games to blocky Minecraft alternatives. We've got a list of the best mining games to play right now, so keep reading if you want to explore the depths of the earth – or the depths of space – in some of the best games on PC.
Hydroneer
With all of the game's comprehensive mining, smithing, and automation features, Hydroneer could very well be the closest match to what you're looking for. One user expresses their enthusiasm for this game in particular, saying: “If you want to start a mine, build a base and defend your territory, this is the game for you.”
Deep Rock Galactic
Combine bug shooting with mining for an exhilarating experience in Deep Rock Galactic. You're responsible for mining precious minerals from underground caves, but you're not alone down there – and those pesky bugs aren't the only threat to your mining operation. With mining, shooting, and even vehicle building mechanics all combine into one game, Deep Rock Galactic is a unique alternative to the other mining games on this list.
Terraria
Terraria is a 2D Minecraft alternative that allows you to explore vast worlds with plenty of different biomes and enemies. The game is famous for its platforming and shooting elements, but it also has in-depth mining mechanics that you can enjoy while exploring the world and building a base.
Starbound
If you're looking for something a little more sci-fi, then Starbound could be your mining game of choice. Like Terraria, Starbound expands upon the 2D Minecraft-like concept by offering a satisfying progression system and mod support.
7 Days To Die
7 Days To Die is one of the games that crops up on a lot of these lists, and for good reason. This post-apocalyptic survival game is challenging, but the huge variety of different mechanics at play make it a satisfying experience. Mining is just one of them – you can also build, repair, and defend your base from all kinds of threats including zombies and other players, which makes for an entertaining gameplay experience.
Vintage Story
Vintage Story is a game that's been in development for years, but the team behind the TerraFirma Craft mod for Minecraft has finally released their first full game. Like TerraFirma, Vintage Story offers intricate mining and smithing mechanics.
Steamworld Dig
Steamworld Dig is a series of underground mining platforming games that offer an immersive and captivating experience. In Steamworld Dig 1 and 2, you explore underground caves in an effort to uncover the secrets of the world.
Rimworld
Although you shouldn't expect Rimworld to focus primarily on mining, it does offer a similar experience to 7 Days To Die. Just like in 7 Days To Die, you're tasked with building, repairing, and defending your base from all kinds of threats.
Factorio
Factorio is an addictive factory building game, but it also offers some great mining mechanics that you can enjoy while building your facilities.
Subnautica
If you're looking for a unique mining experience, then why not try some underwater mining? In Subnautica, you have to build a base from scratch on a seabed that's filled with all kinds of dangerous creatures, not to mention the occasional malfunctioning mining laser.
Space Engineers
Space Engineers is a building game that's mostly about mining, constructing bases, and fighting off enemies.
