Game Overview:
"Tropico" is a construction and management simulation video game developed by PopTop Software and published by Gathering of Developers in April 2001. Feral Interactive has been responsible for creating and publishing several games within the series for Mac OS X. These games revolve around players assuming the role of "El Presidente," who governs a fictional Caribbean island nation named Tropico during the Cold War era and beyond.
.jpg)
Satirical Approach:
The game adopts a tongue-in-cheek approach, presenting semi-democratic banana republics with a healthy dose of humor. While offering humorous content, it also touches on topics like totalitarianism, electoral manipulation, and the influence of powerful corporations (hinting at United Fruit) and Cold War superpowers (the United States and the Soviet Union). This satirical style somewhat mirrors the 8-bit game Dictator by DK'Tronics, where success is measured by accumulating wealth in a Swiss bank account.
Musical Accompaniment:
"Tropico" features a Latin-influenced Caribbean soundtrack, primarily performed by Daniel Indart. The game received acclaim, winning the "Original Musical Composition" award during the 5th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards.
Game Expansions and Sequels:
The "Tropico" franchise boasts several expansion packs and new editions, including "Tropico: Paradise Island." It also introduced a bundled version of the original and Paradise Island titled "Tropico: Mucho Macho Edition." A sequel, "Tropico 2: Pirate Cove," followed in 2003, and the third installment, "Tropico 3," arrived in 2009. "Tropico 4" was released on August 26, 2011, and "Tropico 5" on May 23, 2014, with "Tropico 6" following on March 29, 2019.
Game Re-Releases:
The original game was repackaged into the compilation "Tropico Reloaded," featuring the base game, the expansion pack "Tropico: Paradise Island," and the sequel "Tropico 2: Pirate Cove." This compilation is available digitally on platforms like Steam and GOG.com, as well as in physical disc format.
Staying in Power:
In any "Tropico" game, the primary objective is to remain in power. The player must ensure the island's populace supports their rule, as disapproval can lead to the leader's removal through elections or other means. Rebellions and coups by factions or foreign powers can also threaten "El Presidente's" regime.
Cold War Dynamics:
Maintaining positive relations with the Soviet Union and the United States is crucial. This can lead to foreign aid money from these superpowers. However, strained relations may result in invasion attempts to overthrow the player's rule. Superpowers can also establish military bases on Tropico, offering protection and regular payments.
Gameplay Modes:
"Tropico" offers two gameplay modes: scenario and custom game/random map. Scenarios present predefined conditions and objectives, each with varying difficulty levels. Custom games allow players to fine-tune starting conditions, map settings, and other aspects to customize their experience. Players can even select the duration of the simulation and victory conditions.
Governmental Edicts:
Players can issue governmental edicts, which may require funding or specific buildings. These edicts have diverse effects, from appeasing superpowers to imposing martial law or granting tax breaks to citizens.
Leader Customization:
Before starting a custom game, players can either design their "El Presidente" character or choose from a list of pre-made leaders. This roster includes real-life figures like Che Guevara, Fidel Castro, and Augusto Pinochet, as well as fictional rulers such as Hernando Blanco and Sancho Baraega. Even pop musician Lou Bega, famous for "Mambo No. 5," can serve as a dictator persona. Players can customize their leader's personality traits, background, and rise to power, impacting faction attitudes and in-game consequences.
Scoring System:
The game calculates a final score based on various factors, including citizen happiness, economic prosperity, retirement savings in a Swiss bank account, and the chosen difficulty level at the game's outset.
Share this
EmoticonEmoticon