25.9 hours played
Written 2 days ago
Fresh Start Cleaning Simulator offers a charming and peaceful experience that centers around environmental restoration. Set in a series of beautifully damaged biomes, players take on the role of a cleanup worker equipped with a multifunctional hose-vacuum tool. The primary gameplay involves washing away mud, vacuuming trash, and reviving neglected plants. As each area is cleared, wildlife returns, and nature begins to flourish again. The game does a fantastic job of turning the simple act of cleaning into something visually rewarding and emotionally satisfying.
The mechanics are straightforward but engaging. Players can use water to break down grime and vacuum to remove debris, converting trash into experience points that fuel upgrades. These enhancements allow for larger water tanks, broader spray coverage, and quality-of-life improvements like auto-sprinklers and detection tools to help locate missed items. Even with the availability of automation, many players find themselves preferring the manual process. There’s something deeply relaxing about methodically clearing a cluttered space and watching the environment spring back to life.
Each level in the game is themed around a specific global biome, from forested train tracks to areas affected by wildfires. These levels come with their own mini-narratives and environmental goals, such as rescuing animals or restoring habitats. Completing a level to 95% and finishing associated side objectives unlocks the next stage. This structure provides a sense of progression while maintaining a stress-free atmosphere, making it ideal for players looking for a low-pressure gaming experience. The ecological focus adds a layer of meaning, subtly encouraging awareness of environmental care.
Despite its strengths, the game has some limitations. With only a handful of maps, the total gameplay time hovers around 8 to 10 hours. For those seeking long-term replayability, this may not be enough. There are also minor technical issues that can detract from the experience—items occasionally clip through objects, sprinklers can behave inconsistently, and some players have encountered progression bugs that require revisiting levels. These issues are small but noticeable, especially for completionists aiming for 100% clean-up.
Another potential drawback is comfort during extended sessions. Some users have reported motion sickness due to the first-person perspective, and the lack of field-of-view or head-bob settings can exacerbate this. On top of that, the user interface on controllers and the Steam Deck feels awkward at times, and the game doesn’t currently offer full keybinding customization, which could be a barrier for accessibility or comfort.
Still, the overall response to Fresh Start Cleaning Simulator has been very positive, particularly among fans of cozy and relaxing games. Many players enjoy using it as a wind-down activity, often pairing it with music or podcasts. It delivers a unique and thoughtful experience with an uplifting message, packaged in a serene and visually appealing style. Though relatively short and occasionally rough around the edges, it succeeds at what it sets out to do—providing a peaceful, purpose-driven gameplay loop that’s as soothing as it is satisfying.
Rating: 9/10
