SURVIVING MARS

"It's a very open experience with lots of things to discover and plenty to do."

We know how it is, being halfway from the latest paycheck and having half a month until the next sweet salary. Fortunately, Microsoft has its Free Play Days blessing...

Whether you want to terraform Mars and add some greenery or just get some animal companions, there's something for everyone.

Paradox Interactive is working with Microsoft to launch a modding platform on PC and Xbox One.

Space Race will introduce rival colonies, plus Japan and Brazil as mission sponsors.

Free Da Vinci is available now, Sagan coming in September.

Here's our list of the most interesting Mars-based games to launch since 2004.

We also have new screenshots for you as well.

Settle a colony and make it thrive on the red planet.