There have been countless management sims over the years and even several based on gambling in Vegas so the concept for this game is easy to grasp and the game-play relies on established mechanics which won’t provide a seasoned strategy gamer with much of a challenge. You begin with a failing casino and each level has a different target you must reach, generally a certain rating or level of cash.
The simple isometric view and easy to use menus allow you to place out slot machines of various types, card games, roulette tables and gambling pits. You also have to provide amenities for your gamblers from cash machines and bins to cafes, toilets and hotel rooms. Finally you hire a few staff to keep things ticking over, give the place some security to prevent thieves getting away with your profits and watch as the crowds pour in. You can also spruce up the external view of the casino via a separate screen with flashing signs, fireworks and transport links.
As the place fills up and the casino improves the class of clientele begins to improve and you’ll get punters with more disposable cash in their pockets. You can click on the individual customers and comp them if you think it will encourage them to stay longer and ultimately spend more. Eventually you may be graced with the presence of VIP’s who are obviously based on various famous Hollywood stars like Arnold Schwarzenegger and Clint Eastwood. This is a nice comical touch and they provide a real contrast to the rather dull tourist patrons.
You can also hold tournaments or basic card games of either Blackjack or Poker and join in yourself as a player. This puts you round the table in a game with a very basic interface, irritating opponents and a serious lack of AI. These games offer little challenge and become dull very quickly, although it is a nice idea, it just isn’t executed very well.
The sand box mode is too directionless to offer much fun and since the choices of games, buildings and ornaments are fairly limited the best option is to play through the campaign mode which will give you a gentle challenge and provide around 6 hours of game-play.
