Anti-Pokémon: Brutal factory sim slaughters cute monsters, debuts 99% positive

A recently released factory sim on Steam lets players brutally slaughter adorable monsters before processing them into canned goods. The resemblance to Pokémon is apparently no coincidence. Instead of "Catch 'Em All," the motto here is "Can 'Em All" – quite literally. And that's also the name of the game, which has made an exceptionally strong debut on Steam.

The gameplay concept is simple: A truck delivers Pokémon-like creatures, which players then slaughter using knives, firearms or chainsaws. Their remains are collected with a vacuum-like device and processed into canned goods on a production line. The profits are invested in new weapons and factory upgrades, gradually allowing players to automate more and more of the production process. It's essentially a classic automation game – just taken to ridiculously brutal extremes.

Can 'Em All doesn't just stand out for its remarkably macabre concept – the gameplay also seems to be winning players over. Just one day after release, the game has already received more than 100 Steam reviews, with an outstanding 99% positive rating. According to players, the game features a highly rewarding upgrade system that makes it surprisingly addictive. However, the amount of content is still fairly limited, with an estimated playtime of just five to six hours. Can 'Em All is currently available on Steam for $6.29 with a 10% launch discount. There's also a free demo for anyone who wants to try it before buying. Steam Deck compatibility has yet to be confirmed.

The trailer below offers a glimpse of the game's brutal gameplay: