Video games allow you to be anything you want to be. Whether you want to be an astronaut, a sheriff or a warrior, there are plenty of games out there for you. But if you think you have what it takes to run a company, business or empire, you’ll want to get your hands on a tycoon game.
Tycoon games test your financial decision-making ability and balance them with growth and development skills. If this may sound dull, think again. Unless you’ve tried running a successful agriculture operation line in “Farming Simulator 19,” you’ll be in for a welcome challenge with tycoon games.
What to know before you buy a tycoon game
Platform type
Tycoon games come on a variety of platforms. You can find them on PCs, consoles, mobile devices and more. If you’re looking for a great tycoon board game, read this buying guide from BestReviews. Keep in mind that almost all tycoon board games should be played with multiple players, while console and PC games also have a solo option. So, consider which platform will work the best for you.
Specific industry
Becoming a tycoon isn’t easy, and it definitely helps if you are familiar with the industry featured in the game. There are various industries available in tycoon games, like agriculture, city management, mobsters and theme parks.
Additional content
Playing the latest tycoon game can be exhilarating, especially when you first get started. But if you play for long enough, the content can become stale and boring. While it’s incredibly hard to master a tycoon game fully, additional content helps keep the game fresh and exciting. Make sure your tycoon game has extra content you can purchase when you’re ready for a new challenge.
Tycoon game features
Financial management
The heart of any tycoon game is all about how well you manage your finances. A tycoon game would be much less exciting if there weren’t a risk of potentially going bankrupt from overspending! But you don’t need a master’s degree in economics to succeed. And tycoon games can help you reign in your spending.
Development
Development is always part of the action, whether the tycoon game is on a computer or a board game. The more money you make, the faster your development will grow. When you have the latest equipment, stats or products, only then can you truly claim to be a tycoon.
Market domination
There are different winning criteria for every tycoon game. But in most of the board games, the winner is the person who controls most of the market. But how you make it to the top is up to you. Sometimes, you need to be friendly. Other times, you should rely on a heavy hand.
Tycoon game cost
The cost of a tycoon game depends on several factors. Cost can vary based on the platform, the developer and how popular the game is. On average, you can expect to spend between $20-$100 on a good tycoon game.
Tycoon game FAQ
Do you need to be business savvy to be successful?
A. While it certainly helps, you don’t need any previous business or marketing knowledge to succeed at a tycoon game. All tycoon games come with detailed instructions and how to win.
How old do you need to be to play tycoon games?
A. If you are old enough to grasp the concept of the game, age shouldn’t be a problem. But that doesn’t always hold true, especially if the game is more complicated. Pay attention to ratings for age-restricted information.
Which tycoon game should I get?
Best of the best tycoon game
“Farming Simulator 19”: available at Amazon
Our take: A fantastic game that accurately portrays the agriculture industry.
What we like: If you think you have what it takes to be the best farmer in town, then “Farming Simulator 19” is definitely for you. You start a small farm with authentic, licensed equipment. Then, grow your crops and livestock and make money by selling it. Once you reach the top tiers, you can go all-in to be the agriculture tycoon in three different countries. Available on Xbox, PlayStation, PC and Nintendo Switch.
What we dislike: Some of the vehicle controls are difficult to operate.
Best bang for your buck tycoon game
“Planet Coaster”: available at Amazon
Our take: Like most things in life, the challenges in this game will have ups and downs.
What we like: For a hands-on approach to running a theme park, “Planet Coaster” is a blast. Build from small beginnings to a mega-park by delicately managing your park’s finances while building new rides. If people stop coming, you lose money on salaries and upkeep. So it’s best to give the people what they want and keep your park safe and secure. It’s available on Xbox, PlayStation and PC.
What we dislike: The management aspect of this tycoon game is very intricate, and can be somewhat difficult to keep track of.
Honorable mention tycoon game
“Tropico 6”: available at Amazon
Our take: Want to be a financially savvy despot dictator? Now you can!
What we like: It can be tough to fight your way to the top of the economic ladder, so what better place to do that than a tropical island? In “Tropico 6,” you play the role of a dictator who has taken control of your island nation. From planning supply routes to investing in tourism, everything rests on your shoulders. Mismanage your funds, and the population will start to revolt. But be aware of outside forces trying to topple you from your throne. It is available on Xbox, PlayStation, Nintendo Switch and PC.
What we dislike: Additional content for the game can be pricey.
Honorable mention tycoon game
Catan Board Game: available at Amazon
Our take: A family-friendly tycoon game that everyone will enjoy, this is one of the most popular tycoon board games on the market.
What we like: No two games are ever the same, as the game uses a randomized board. To be the best tycoon among your friends, you must strategically build, trade and settle in the right places. It is suitable for ages 10 years and older and can be played by three to four people. There are several editions available as well, like a space-themed and “Game of Thrones” version.
What we dislike: If you have an older version, you’ll need the extension to play with five or six people.
Charlie Fripp is a writer for BestReviews. BestReviews is a product review company with a singular mission: to help simplify your purchasing decisions and save you time and money.
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