STARS review
A targeted simulator for teams studying thermal, chemical, and geomechanical recovery.
Reviewed by iTechGuides Editors · Editorial team · Updated Oct 2026
STARS is a multiphase, multicomponent dynamic reservoir simulator from Computer Modelling Group Ltd. It is aimed at mid-market and enterprise engineering teams studying recovery processes in which thermal, chemical, or geomechanical effects matter. Its focus is specialized rather than broad: the product centers on reservoir modeling, not well management, production management, hydrocarbon accounting, land lease management, or regulatory reporting.
The standout capability is its coverage of recovery physics. STARS simulates steam injection, SAGD, cyclic steam stimulation, and in-situ combustion, alongside chemical EOR methods such as ASP, polymer, surfactant, foam, and low-salinity processes. FlexWell models complex wellbores and completions, including flow-control devices; the simulator also models heat transfer and fluid flow in wells. Geomechanical effects and geochemistry are included, and the scope extends to enhanced geothermal and closed-loop systems. Multi-core and multi-node simulation support is also part of the product. This breadth within advanced-process simulation suits projects where these interactions are central, but teams seeking everyday production or operational workflows should look at a broader oil and gas system.
CMG offers STARS through an expert-sales contact, and according to the vendor's product information, prospective customers are directed to talk to an expert rather than choose from published pricing tiers. That means buyers should expect a sales-led evaluation rather than a self-serve plan comparison. Founded in 1983, CMG is based in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. STARS is a strong fit for reservoir engineers evaluating thermal or chemical recovery and related geomechanical or geothermal behavior; it is a less natural choice for teams whose main need is production administration, accounting, or reporting.
STARS pros and cons
- Where it wins
- Simulates thermal methods such as SAGD and cyclic steam stimulation
- Models chemical EOR, including ASP, polymer, surfactant, and foam
- Covers complex wellbores, geomechanics, geochemistry, and geothermal systems
- Where it doesn't
- Focused on reservoir simulation rather than broader oilfield workflows
- Pricing requires contacting CMG rather than selecting a published plan
- Its technical scope may exceed the needs of teams with simpler modeling goals
STARS fact sheet, pricing and score →
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