Abandoned game with too many bugs. Last patch was 2023.

The Tenants is an intriguing blend of simulation, management, and casual gameplay that puts players in the role of a landlord responsible for managing a rental property. Developed by Ancient Games, it offers a surprisingly detailed and engaging experience that goes beyond simple property maintenance, combining elements of negotiation, customization, and strategic resource management. For anyone interested in simulation games with a unique twist, The Tenants presents an immersive look at the challenges and rewards of running a rental business, wrapped in a laid-back yet thoughtfully designed package.

At its core, the gameplay revolves around acquiring, renovating, and renting out apartments to a diverse cast of tenants. Players start with a modest property and limited funds, then must balance the financial demands of repairs and upgrades with the need to attract reliable tenants who will pay rent on time. This balancing act requires careful budgeting and prioritization—should you invest in new appliances to boost rent prices, or focus on fixing structural issues to prevent tenant complaints? The game does an excellent job of simulating the economic and logistical pressures of property management without becoming overwhelming or tedious.

What makes The Tenants stand out is its emphasis on the social and personal side of landlordship. Each tenant has their own personality traits, preferences, and behaviors that influence how they interact with the player and the property. Negotiating lease terms, handling requests, and addressing conflicts become meaningful challenges that require patience and strategy. This human element adds depth to the game, turning what could be a dry management sim into a series of engaging interactions that affect your success. The game also allows players to personalize apartments with furniture and decorations, making the experience feel more creative and hands-on.

The renovation mechanics are detailed and satisfying. Players can choose from a wide array of tools and materials to fix and upgrade apartments, from patching walls to installing new flooring or modern appliances. The hands-on nature of these tasks adds an active layer of gameplay that breaks up the management routines and provides a sense of accomplishment. The progression system encourages continuous improvement of your properties, unlocking better tenants and higher rents as you build your reputation.

Visually, The Tenants employs a clean, approachable art style that strikes a balance between realism and simplicity. The apartments and surrounding buildings are well-detailed, and the user interface is designed to be intuitive, though some menus can occasionally feel cluttered during more complex management phases. The sound design supports the cozy atmosphere with ambient noises and subtle music that create an immersive environment without distraction.

While The Tenants shines in many areas, it does have its flaws. Early game pacing can be slow, with some players potentially finding the initial financial constraints and renovation tasks repetitive before the gameplay truly opens up. Additionally, certain AI behaviors from tenants can sometimes feel unpredictable or frustrating, requiring players to adapt their strategies frequently. However, these issues do little to detract from the overall charm and depth of the simulation.

In conclusion, The Tenants offers a surprisingly rich and enjoyable property management experience that combines economic strategy with personal interaction and creative renovation. Its unique focus on the tenant-landlord relationship adds personality and nuance, setting it apart from more generic sims. For players who enjoy thoughtful management games with a human touch and hands-on gameplay elements, The Tenants provides a rewarding and immersive way to test their organizational and negotiation skills in the world of real estate.

Rating: 7/10

Good fun :)