Info about Calculate It:

Official game description:
**We turned a calculator into a roguelike!**
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Each round gives you a new target number. Reach it using the buttons you have, then prepare your calculator for the next challenge. Charges are limited, and the fewer turns you take to solve a round, the more coins you'll earn for new purchases.
**Create your own build**
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Choose a calculator with its own unique features, expand its casing, and install new buttons. Reverse numbers, replace digits, take square roots, or swap your result with the target. Sometimes, a single well-chosen purchase opens up a whole new way to tackle each round.
**Combine buttons and passive upgrades**
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Passive upgrades change the rules. Earn coins by reaching certain numbers, recharge buttons when you earn coins, or restore glass buttons after a round. Choose upgrades that suit your calculator and make them work together.
**Adapt to the bosses**
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Bosses disable specific buttons, increase charge costs, and even hide your calculator's display. Save your useful tools and find new solutions when your usual combination stops working.
**Take on unusual challenges**
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Complete a run with a calculator that loses a button after every round. Race against the clock. Decipher operations hidden behind alchemical symbols. In Only Up, start at one and work your way up to targets around ten thousand.
Win runs, unlock new buttons and passive upgrades, take on higher difficulties, and keep a successful build going in Endless Mode.

Release date: Oct 12, 2026

Categories: Roguelike, Puzzle, Deckbuilding, Math Puzzle, Turn-based Gameplay, Resource Management, Endless Mode


- Hardware Profile: No data
Feature extractions:
- Community Price: No data
- Playtime Metrics:
  - Game completion: 4.5h
  - Story completion: N/A
  - Session length: 0.5h
  - Endgame: N/A
  - Reasoning: Game completion is supported by the explicit 4.5-hour 100% achievements report and reinforced by another reviewer reporting about 4 hours of solid enjoyment. Session length is supported by the 20-30 minute play window and a 30-minute first win report, suggesting roughly 0.5 hours per session. No evidence provides a story-completion time or an endgame time in hours, so those metrics remain null.
- Time-to-fun:
  - Summary: Players report initial fun that fades into repetitiveness and blandness, with missing tutorials for numerical operations and powers as early friction. A minority says the game is never fun, but the strongest direct evidence describes an enjoyable start followed by a drop.
  - Stance: Fun then drops
  - Anchor: N/A
  - Time to anchor: N/A
  - Friction: Missing tutorial for numerical operations; Missing explanation of powers; Confusing mechanics such as dividing by zero and unexpected explosions; Repetitive graphics and limited buttons
  - Unlock drivers: Watching Richard Waterson's tutorial explains confusing mechanics and prevents early confusion
  - Conditions: A tutorial level or mode for numerical operations; A tutorial mode that explains the powers in depth; More language options
- Player Archetypes:
  - Math-Roguelike Devotee (buy)
    - Motivation: The satisfaction of cracking arithmetic puzzles inside run-based roguelike runs and pushing endless mode to ever higher rounds.
    - Playstyle: Grinds long endless runs, optimizes number manipulation to resolve rounds in a single turn, and compares energy values and difficulty modes in fine mechanical detail.
    - Experience: veteran
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: math lover; roguelike enjoyer
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Early-Access Optimist and Roadmap Follower (buy)
    - Motivation: Being part of the game's growth and watching new content, features and languages arrive during early access.
    - Playstyle: Plays current builds, follows patch progress, and gives feedback on features and localization while accepting unfinished systems.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Budget Puzzle-Snacker Newcomer (sale)
    - Motivation: A cheap, bite-sized math puzzle that fills short casual sessions without demanding long-term commitment.
    - Playstyle: Short casual sessions, learning the rules by trial and error, and hitting a mental-math and onboarding wall that limits progress.
    - Experience: newcomer
    - Purchase stance: sale
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A
  - Current-State Skeptic (no buy)
    - Motivation: The core concept is appealing enough that they keep watching for updates, but they are waiting for polish, better UI and less randomness before committing.
    - Playstyle: Tries the current build, evaluates balance, randomness and interface quality, and holds off playing seriously until the game feels finished.
    - Experience: familiar
    - Purchase stance: no buy
    - Labels: N/A
    - Reference games: N/A


Below are summaries of things people say about the game per category.
Each point is assigned a weight that represents how often it is mentioned across all reviews.
What players like:
- Enjoyable overall fun (weight 0.78): A large number of reviewers simply describe the game as fun, good, or enjoyable. This broad positive sentiment appears across many clusters with low-specificity praise.
- Unique calculator-based concept (weight 0.66): The game's core idea of using varied calculators and limited button presses to reach a target number is widely praised as original and creative. Players enjoy the distinctive puzzle design.
- Strong for math lovers (weight 0.63): Many reviewers highlight the game as excellent for players who enjoy math, mental arithmetic, and brain-training challenges. It is frequently described as one of the best math-focused games available.
- Challenging but rewarding gameplay (weight 0.57): Many players find the game challenging in a satisfying way, especially when limited buttons and presses force careful planning. Clearing stages or runs provides a strong sense of accomplishment.
- Fun roguelike puzzle game (weight 0.55): Players consistently describe it as an enjoyable roguelike or roguelite puzzle experience that blends arithmetic with roguelike progression. The combination is seen as creative and well executed.
- Simple concept executed well (weight 0.39): Players appreciate how the game takes a simple premise and makes it engaging and progressively more challenging. The straightforward design is seen as a strength rather than a limitation.
- Creative and original idea (weight 0.33): The game is frequently called creative, original, and interesting in its concept. Reviewers appreciate the fresh take on puzzle and math games.
- Good UI and art (weight 0.29): The user interface is described as good-looking and easy to use. The art direction and modern style are also noted positively compared to the original.
- Good for short sessions (weight 0.25): The game is easy to pick up for a quick round and works well for killing time. It is also described as fun to return to every now and then.
- Nice music and sound (weight 0.14): Reviewers mention enjoyable music and sound effects that fit the calculating mood of the game. These elements contribute positively to the overall experience.
- Developer support is active (weight 0.13): Reviewers note that the developers have improved the game since purchase and that recent patches have made it better. Ongoing support is seen as a positive sign.
- Potential for future growth (weight 0.13): Some players see a lot of potential in the game and good prospects for its future development. This suggests optimism about upcoming content or updates.
- Helpful tutorial and onboarding (weight 0.08): The tutorial is praised for being helpful and preventing confusion with math operations. It eases players into the mechanics effectively.
- Co-op play is fun (weight 0.08): Playing cooperatively is described as extremely fun and challenging. The co-op experience adds a social and engaging dimension to the game.
- Limited shop preserves identity (weight 0.07): The limited shop is said to keep the importance of initial keys high and preserve calculator individuality. This design choice is noted as a positive for game balance.
- Nostalgic calculator feel (weight 0.06): One reviewer fondly compares the game to playing with a calculator at their father's restaurant. This nostalgic connection adds personal charm.
- Achievements completed (weight 0.06): A reviewer mentions unlocking all achievements, indicating thorough engagement. This is a personal milestone rather than a widespread point.
- Division by zero moment (weight 0.06): A single reviewer mentions division by zero as a notable moment. This is a niche detail rather than a common theme.

Common complaints:
- Lack of content and replayability (weight 0.95): The game lacks sufficient content, variety, and replayability. Many find it repetitive and not worth returning to after completion.
- Inadequate presentation and performance (weight 0.64): The game suffers from poor graphics, repetitive music, and performance issues like overheating. It feels unpolished and lacks customization options.
- Poor balance and difficulty spikes (weight 0.53): The game balance is questionable, with certain operations (+, -) being overpowered compared to others. Difficulty varies widely, with some modes being extremely hard.
- Game too easy (weight 0.52): Many players report that the game is too easy, making it less engaging and reducing the incentive to continue playing. Some note that it is basic and can be won quickly.
- Missing tutorial and unclear UI (weight 0.5): The lack of a tutorial and poor descriptions make it hard to understand buttons and game mechanics. Many buttons are poorly explained, causing confusion.
- Confusing rounding and truncation (weight 0.47): Rounding and truncation rules are inconsistent and confusing, leading to incorrect results. For example, division may truncate while root operations round, and decimal handling is unclear.
- Lack of save and undo (weight 0.44): The absence of a save system and undo function makes mistakes costly and progress frustrating. Players want the ability to recover from wrong inputs.
- Bugs and glitches (weight 0.36): Various bugs and glitches affect gameplay, such as issues with certain commands (e.g., bow and balloon), blocked buttons, and inability to use the minus key.
- RNG and luck dependence (weight 0.33): The game is heavily reliant on randomness, with players feeling that luck determines success more than strategy. Many complain that restarting is faster if desired numbers don't appear.
- Weak roguelike elements (weight 0.31): The roguelike aspects are underdeveloped, with little build synergy and strategies feeling limited. Many feel it doesn't work well as a roguelike.
- Bosses lack depth and fun (weight 0.26): Bosses are often seen as lacking, with bad gimmicks and patterns that seem designed to make you fail. They are not interesting or challenging in a fair way.
- Limited customization and options (weight 0.24): The game lacks options for scaling UI, audio volume separation, and other settings. This reduces accessibility and personalization.
- Expensive and poor value (weight 0.2): Some players find the game overpriced for its quality and amount of content. It feels like a beta version not worth the cost.
- Cannot purchase buttons sometimes (weight 0.2): Players report being unable to purchase buttons even when they have enough money, which can block progress and cause frustration.
- Order of operations issues (weight 0.15): The game lacks proper order of operations, causing expressions like +6*6 to be evaluated incorrectly. This disappointed players expecting standard math rules.
- No feedback or preview (weight 0.15): There is no feedback on which button was pressed or what operations will result in. A preview would help players plan their moves.
- No lose condition in endless (weight 0.14): Endless mode lacks a lose condition, making it bland and unchallenging. The game does not end when there are no possible moves.
- Achievements too difficult (weight 0.08): Achievements are very difficult to obtain, requiring significant luck or skill. This discourages completionists.
- Lack of female characters (weight 0.08): Some players noted a lack of female characters in the game, which they see as a missed opportunity for representation.

Gameplay feedback:
- Calculator-based roguelike puzzle gameplay (weight 0.61): The game is consistently described as a roguelike or roguelite puzzle experience built around calculators and numbers. Players manipulate values with math operations to reach target numbers.
- Math operations drive core mechanics (weight 0.56): Core gameplay revolves around adding, multiplying, and using numbers to transform a starting value into a target number. Mental arithmetic is a key requirement.
- Varied calculators with unique functions (weight 0.42): Multiple calculator types, including an Engineering Calculator and a crazy calculator, offer distinct special keys and challenge modes. Each calculator poses different challenges.
- Limited-use buttons and energy management (weight 0.37): Buttons have limited uses and are destroyed when exhausted, requiring careful management. An energy mechanic tied to button presses adds another layer of resource planning.
- Round-based structure with win condition (weight 0.26): The game features quick round-based gameplay where players take turns. Winning requires beating 20 rounds in total.
- Endless mode with levels (weight 0.25): An endless mode is available, offering rounds and levels beyond the standard progression. It extends replayability for players who enjoy the core loop.
- Special buttons with strategic effects (weight 0.16): Buttons can perform actions like swapping the target and starting numbers or cutting the first digit. These introduce new possibilities for reaching the required number.
- Button shop between rounds (weight 0.16): Players can purchase additional buttons and new button uses from a shop between rounds. This progression system enhances the roguelite loop.

Performance notes:
- Heating issues from poor code (weight 0.09): Users report severe heating problems and attribute them to badly written code. This suggests significant performance optimization issues that can affect gameplay and hardware.
- Steam Deck compatibility issues (weight 0.08): Players report that the game does not work well on the Steam Deck, indicating poor compatibility with the handheld platform. This may limit accessibility for users who primarily play on that device.

Recommendations:
- Strong overall recommendation (weight 0.33): Many reviewers explicitly recommend playing the game and describe it as worth checking out. The feedback is overwhelmingly positive with no conditions attached.
- Good value for money (weight 0.32): Multiple reviewers highlight the game as worth the price and a good purchase for its cost. The low price is seen as a key strength, especially considering the replayability offered.
- Negative recommendation due to state (weight 0.31): Several reviewers cannot recommend the game in its current state, citing an unfinished or underdeveloped condition. They suggest waiting for further development before playing.
- Appeals to roguelike fans (weight 0.26): Several reviewers mention that the game is enjoyable for players who like roguelikes, often combined with an interest in math. It offers variety and difficulty options that roguelike enthusiasts appreciate.
- Requires strategic thinking (weight 0.09): Some reviewers recommend it for players who enjoy games that demand a lot of thinking before acting. This suggests the gameplay involves planning and problem-solving.
- Not for everyone (weight 0.09): A few reviewers note that while they recommend the game, it may not suit all players. The niche appeal is acknowledged, particularly for those who dislike math or roguelikes.
- Universal appeal suggested (weight 0.08): One reviewer states that anyone should try this game, implying broad accessibility. However, this view is not widely echoed in other clusters.

Other player notes:
- Frequent Balatro Comparisons (weight 0.37): Players often compare this game to Balatro, noting similarities in random generation, escalating stakes, and strategic replayability. Some find it requires more mental effort due to its math-based approach.
- Optimism for Future Updates (weight 0.25): Many reviewers express enthusiasm for future updates, believing the game will continue to develop and improve. They look forward to more content and features.
- Early Access Status Noted (weight 0.21): Reviewers frequently mention that the game is in Early Access and anticipate further development and added features. This status is seen as a reason for potential improvement.
- Unique and Cool Concept (weight 0.15): The game's concept is frequently praised as unique and cool, standing out among other titles. This originality is a major draw for players.
- Ongoing Developer Improvements (weight 0.14): The developers have been actively making improvements since release, and communication with users is considered fine. This positive reception suggests good post-launch support.
- Game Not Finished (weight 0.14): The game is perceived as not finished yet, with some saying it is 'not even close to complete'. This aligns with its Early Access status.
- Promising Future Prospects (weight 0.14): Reviewers believe the game has good prospects for the future and will be a good game once polished. This optimism is based on its current trajectory.
- Short Completion Time (weight 0.14): The game can be fully completed (100% achievements) in about 4.5 hours if the player tries hard. This indicates a relatively short content length.
- Missing Save Feature (weight 0.08): A notable criticism is the lack of a save feature, which can be inconvenient for players. This is a specific functional gap.
- Highly Challenging Math (weight 0.08): The game is so challenging that some reviewers needed to use a calculator. This indicates a high difficulty level, especially for mental math.
- Functional Graphics (weight 0.08): Graphics are described as functional, serving their purpose without being exceptional. They are not a major focus of feedback.
- Countdown Numbers Comparison (weight 0.08): Some players compare the game to the numbers segment of the TV show Countdown, highlighting its math puzzle nature. This reference resonates with those familiar with the show.
- Compared to Other Roguelikes (weight 0.08): The game is compared to other roguelikes where the goal is reaching a score or fighting enemies, highlighting its distinct math-based objective. This sets it apart in the genre.
- Minesweeper and Solitaire Comparison (weight 0.08): Some players compare it to Minesweeper and Solitaire, but feel it is not as good. This suggests it appeals to a similar casual puzzle audience.
- Reviewer Followed Updates (weight 0.07): One reviewer has followed the game's updates over time, indicating sustained interest and engagement. This reflects a dedicated player base.
- Endless Mode Milestone (weight 0.07): Reaching Round 200 in endless mode is considered equivalent to beating the game ten times. This provides a benchmark for dedicated players.
- No Developer Noise (weight 0.07): There is no developer noise, implying minimal intrusive communication or promotion. This can be seen as a positive for some players.

Emotions:
- Frustration (weight 0.17): Players are frustrated by inconsistent rounding that causes losses, lack of undo for misclicks, and unforgiving RNG. Bugs like unregistered inputs and blocked buttons further compound the annoyance, especially in harder modes.
- Enjoyment (weight 0.16): Players enjoy the unique mix of arithmetic puzzle-solving and roguelike progression. The mental challenge, quick rounds, and variety of calculators provide fun and stimulating gameplay.
- Disappointment (weight 0.12): Many find the game too easy, lacking depth and replayability compared to similar roguelikes. The novel concept is undermined by mediocre implementation, repetitive gameplay, and insufficient content.
- Confusion (weight 0.06): Players are confused by inconsistent button availability, unclear descriptions (especially the % button), and vague explanations for blocked actions. The roguelike elements are also not clearly defined.
- Satisfaction (weight 0.06): Players feel satisfied by solving challenging puzzles, efficient calculations, and unlocking achievements. The simple yet strategic design and overall quality contribute to a sense of accomplishment.
- Anticipation (weight 0.04): Players are eager for future content, including new buttons, difficulties, and balance updates. The game's potential sparks hope for ongoing improvements.
- Excitement (weight 0.04): The unique combination of calculator mechanics and roguelike progression generates excitement. The strategic depth and replayability appeal to fans of math-based games.
- Love (weight 0.03): Players express love for the game's innovative concept of a calculator roguelike. The idea is considered fantastic and highly engaging.
- Enthusiasm (weight 0.03): Enthusiasm stems from the variety of calculators, difficulties, and the game's potential for future updates. The roguelike structure is seen as cool and promising.
- Hope (weight 0.03): Players hope for a mobile port and further development. They believe the game has potential and a fun original idea that will keep them engaged.
- Amusement (weight 0.03): Amusement arises from humorous elements like the crazy calculator, losing one's mind, and the game hijacking the 'cal' input. The game's quirky nature provides lighthearted fun.
- Appreciation (weight 0.03): Appreciation is directed at the developer's creativity and the improved art direction compared to the original. The game shows thoughtful design.
- Uncertainty (weight 0.03): Uncertainty surrounds mechanics like decimal handling for division and square root, and potential penalties for not winning a round in one turn. These ambiguities affect decision-making.
- Joy (weight 0.03): Joy comes from lucky rolls, achieving all achievements, and the ability to move the calculator. Receiving the game as a gift also adds to the happiness.
- Annoyance (weight 0.03): Annoyance is caused by repetitive music and sound effects, lack of separate audio settings, vague rounding rules, and the need to destroy used-up buttons. These minor issues detract from the experience.
- Reluctant acceptance (weight 0.01): Players reluctantly accept that balancing a variable calculator game is inherently difficult. This understanding tempers criticism of the game's balance.
- Dissatisfaction (weight 0.01): Dissatisfaction arises from the final boss being easily defeated and insufficient content to fully complete the game. The lack of challenge and depth leaves players wanting more.
- Mild regret (weight 0.01): Mild regret is expressed over the game costing more than expected. The price point seems slightly high relative to the content.
- Trust (weight 0.01): Trust in the developers is built on their track record of improving the game since purchase. This confidence encourages continued support.
- Boredom (weight 0.01): Boredom sets in as the game becomes repetitive and endless mode lacks challenge. The absence of a lose condition reduces long-term engagement.}