From the first moment I received a tip about *Times Of Progress* from Sin Vega, the Prime Minister of Strategy Gaming, I felt an immediate attachment to this project. It’s an extraordinary feeling to be drawn into a game that symbolizes both innovation and nostalgia, especially when it comes recommended by someone I respect. Sin had previously likened the writing of news articles for our late news editor, Alice0, to practicing complex martial arts moves in front of an expert. In that scenario, the responsibilities felt akin to being entrusted with the monumental task of budgeting the development of Londinium itself, all under the watchful eye of Julius Caesar. It’s ironic, given that the game is set during the Industrial Revolution, but such historical missteps might be easily overlooked in the excitement of a burgeoning game world.
Writing about *Times Of Progress* has been a daunting endeavor, hindered by the pressure of doing justice to its intricate design while contending with distractions like industry conferences. However, it’s high time for me to step away from my proverbial cave and communicate to the gaming community my thoughts. It is with a mix of excitement and apprehension that I present my insights into this new city-building experience.
One of the first aspects to captivate players upon entering *Times Of Progress* is its aesthetic. Visually, it is a procedurally generated wonderland that presents a unique isometric perspective. The neatly arranged roads and railways create a quilt-like connectivity within the diamond-shaped town layouts, captivating the imagination. The color palette is reminiscent of late 19th-century nuances—earthy tones interspersed with brick reds and vibrant greens—that evoke a sense of fulfillment and urban vibrance.
This beauty, however, isn’t bereft of life; animated elements like plumes of smoke and evolving buildings provide an engaging dynamism that enhances gameplay immersion. While you might classify the visuals as “minimalist” at first glance, the game reveals a depth of design that is rich and thoughtful, transcending conventional city-builder expectations.
Beneath its approachable aesthetics lies a complex system that intertwines gameplay mechanics with historical context. The game takes an innovative approach to scientific advancements typical of the Industrial Revolution. Rather than allowing players to unilaterally research technologies like typewriters or electrolysis, advancements are unlocked via an organic timeline that reflects your city’s progress and the progress of AI-controlled cities in your realm. Consequently, players are incentivized to achieve set goals, such as food production, in order to hasten technological advancements, introducing a strategic edge often lacking in conventional city builders.
Additionally, *Times Of Progress* highlights the significance of trade—both as a core gameplay mechanic and a thematic emphasis. Unlike many of its counterparts, it lacks a military component and distinct cultural frameworks, allowing its mercantile relationships to take center stage. This approach perhaps encourages players to focus on economic strategy, making careful decisions that impact the city’s growth and prosperity.
Another intriguing aspect of the game is its treatment of labor relations. Workers can strike if payment—dispensed in food—falls short for a prolonged period, forcing players to balance productivity and welfare. The ability to implement laws around unionization adds layers of complexity that mirror real-world labor challenges. While the threat of strikes looms, players can choose to either negotiate or maintain order, reflecting the era’s socio-economic disputes and the sometimes fraught relationship between workers and management.
The balance that *Times Of Progress* strikes between the creative freedom of city-building and the nuances of historical intricacy is commendable. It allows players to engage deeply with their projects while also encountering challenges that reflect the historical context that shaped urban landscapes.
Overall, *Times Of Progress* stands as a historically rich tapestry interwoven with thoughtful gameplay mechanics. It captures the essence of a transformative period in our past while delivering a refreshing take on the city-building genre. Kudos to Pressing Thumbs Games and its solo developer for this ambitious effort. For those intrigued by the prospect of shaping an urban environment in the Age of Industry, this game merits a closer examination. In the words of Sin, I hope that this overview resonates well and sets the stage for further exploration of this captivating title.
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