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Planet Scanner

Scan the stars and claim planets for your corporate masters! In Planet Scanner, you will discover unique new worlds, decode transmissions, and upload data all in the name of keeping your job. But what happens if you gaze too long in the void?

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Release
October 22, 2024
1 year and 283 days ago
Steam Reviews
Positive38 reviews97.4%

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Updated: Jul 10, 2026Developer scaleThe operating scale of the game's developer.
Updated: Jul 10, 2026Publisher scaleThe operating scale of the game's publisher.
Updated: Jul 10, 2026Publisher statusHow the game's publishing relationship is classified.
Search Google: How is Planet Scanner and Ham Goblin funded?FundingThe known source of funding behind the game.
Search Google: Who controls the creative direction and IP for Planet Scanner and Ham Goblin?Creative controlWho appears to retain creative control of the game.
Updated: Jul 10, 2026Release statusWhether and how the game has been released.

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About the Game

You're just here to do a job. The universe has other plans for you.

Planet Scanner is a semi-procedural horror narrative disguised as a job simulator set in an isolated, cramped space station.

You are ScanCorp's newest Planet Scanner and your task is to discover, study, and claim distant planets on behalf of your employer. The business of selling planets is booming, especially as the search for intelligent alien life heats up...

GET YOUR ASSIGNMENTS

Use your computer to check emails, get your daily assignments, and learn more about the galaxy around you. Stay up to date with the news, check the market prices for certain planetary traits, and buy upgrades to make your job easier!

SCAN THE STARS

The telescope is your main way of observing the universe, so use it to lock onto a star and bring up its' local system on the map console. Scan planets to discover them, learn more about their unique properties, and upload them to ScanCorp's servers.

SEARCH FOR SIGNALS

You may be asked to ping planets in search of potential alien transmissions. Lock in the waveforms, decrypt the signals, and hopefully don't open a Pandora's box you never could have fathomed.

TAKE IMAGES OF PLANET SURFACES

Sometimes, the only way to learn more about a planet is to take a look for yourself. Find a good imaging sight, match the coordinates, and see what lurks on the surface.

Total playtime averages about 2.5 hours. There are 23 in-game nights.