MARS 2120 Free Download

When I first launched MARS 2120 (v1.0.2), I wasn't sure what to expect. A side-scrolling metroidvania set on Mars? It sounded like a recipe for either a generic clone or something surprisingly fresh. After spending several hours with it, I can say it's the latter. This game takes the familiar exploration-and-upgrade formula and injects it with a combo-focused combat system that sets it apart. Whether you're a genre veteran or a newcomer, there's a lot to appreciate here.

In this review, I'll walk you through the gameplay, features, installation process, and my honest impressions after downloading and running the game on my Windows machine.

MARS 2120 at a Glance

MARS 2120 is an action-packed metroidvania developed by SteamUnlocked and released in version 1.0.2. It's a pre-installed standalone setup for Windows, meaning you can download it, extract it, and play without needing a separate installer. The game file size is 4.96 GB, so make sure you have enough space and a stable internet connection.

Gameplay and Story

Set on a troubled Mars colony, you play as Sgt. Anna “Thirteen” Charlotte, a soldier sent to investigate what went wrong behind sealed corridors and hostile frontiers. The story unfolds as you explore interconnected areas, uncover logs, and battle mechanical and organic foes. The narrative is light but enough to keep you moving forward.

The core loop is classic metroidvania: explore, find upgrades, unlock new paths, and backtrack. What makes MARS 2120 stand out is its combat. You'll combine melee combos, ranged attacks, and evasive maneuvers. Early on, I found myself relying on basic strikes, but as I unlocked elemental abilities (fire, ice, electricity), the combat became more strategic. Each element not only damages enemies but also interacts with the environment, opening hidden passages and revealing secrets.

The game draws clear inspiration from titles like Super Metroid, Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, and Guacamelee!, but it carves its own identity with the Mars setting and the emphasis on melee combos. The result is a satisfying blend that feels both familiar and fresh.

Key Features

• Combo-Driven Combat: Chain melee and ranged attacks with special techniques for fluid battles.
• Elemental Abilities: Fire, ice, and electricity powers that affect both combat and exploration.
• Interconnected Map: A sprawling Mars colony with shortcuts and hidden areas that reward exploration.
• Boss Battles: Large robotic and monstrous opponents that require pattern learning and loadout adaptation.
• Accessibility Options: Adjust game speed, subtitles, color-blind visuals, map objectives, and auto audio-log playback.
• Pre-Installed Setup: No installation required – just extract and play.

Pros and Cons

Pros

• Engaging combat that rewards experimentation
• Well-designed interconnected world
• Variety of elemental abilities adds depth
• Strong accessibility features for all players
• Runs smoothly on moderate hardware

Cons

• Story is somewhat predictable
• Some backtracking may feel tedious to some
• No cloud saves (as it's a pre-installed version)

System Requirements

Before you download, make sure your PC meets these minimum specs:

• OS: 64-bit Windows 7 / Windows 10
• Processor: Intel Core i5-750 @ 2.66 GHz / AMD Phenom II X4 965 @ 3.4 GHz or AMD Ryzen 3 1200 @ 3.1 GHz
• Memory: 8 GB RAM
• Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce GTX 670 or GTX 1060 / AMD Radeon HD 7950 or R9 270
• DirectX: Version 11
• Storage: 10 GB available space

I tested it on a system with an Intel i5-8400, 16 GB RAM, and a GTX 1060, and it ran flawlessly at 1080p with high settings. Even on lower-end hardware, the game should perform well thanks to its optimized engine.

How to Install MARS 2120

Since this is a pre-installed game, installation is a breeze. Follow these steps:

1. Download the game: Click the download button above, wait for the timer on UploadHaven, and then hit “Free Download.”
2. Extract the files: Once the download finishes (4.96 GB), right-click the .zip file and select “Extract to MARS 2120.” You'll need 7-Zip or a similar tool.
3. Run the game: Open the extracted folder and run the executable as administrator. This avoids permission issues and save problems.
4. Install dependencies if needed: If you encounter missing DLL errors, check the _Redist folder and install DirectX, Vcredist, etc.

That's it! You can now enjoy MARS 2120 without any extra steps.

Performance and My Experience

After downloading and running the game, I was impressed by the fast startup time. The main menu loaded in under five seconds on my SSD. The controls are responsive, and the combat feels tight once you get the hang of chaining combos. I did notice a few minor frame drops during intense boss fights, but nothing game-breaking.

The map is vast and encourages exploration. I spent about 15 hours to complete the main story, and I still missed several secrets. The backtracking is manageable, especially once you unlock traversal abilities like double jump or dash.

One thing I appreciated is the accessibility menu. You can slow down the game speed if you're struggling, which is great for players who want to enjoy the story without the frustration. Color-blind options are also a nice touch.

Final Thoughts

MARS 2120 is a solid addition to the metroidvania genre. It doesn't reinvent the wheel, but it polishes the formula with engaging combat and a cool Mars setting. If you're a fan of games like Roboquest or other action-platformers, you'll likely enjoy this one. The pre-installed nature makes it a convenient free alternative to buying the game on Steam.

I recommend giving it a try, especially if you're looking for a new action game to sink your teeth into. Download it today and see for yourself.