TL;DR version is this: very unique and fun casual game from a dedicated solo developer that combines [computer] business strategy, management, operations, R&D, product development and design, marketing, and even some cool world history if such world map out of three choices is chosen. For those die-hard #PCMR folks out there, computer historian aficionados, casual gamers, gamers on a tight budget, and those with older/lower-end specs (system requirements are very gentle as this is essentially a 2D/text game), this one is worth a shot for any of you in those categories. Best yet, if you don't like something, provide your input on the Steam Discussion forums or on Discord and more than likely the dev will respond directly to you. How often do us Steam gamers get that?

** HIGHLY RECOMMENDED ** :)

Now, the in-depth version: if the "real world history map" is chosen: after the fall of the Soviet Union in 1991 (and know that the game starts in the 70's, so we're fast-forwarding here), the global map changes to reflect real world events like Ukraine being formed that year (did you know that?) along with other new nations, border changes in Europe, Middle East, and Northeast Asia, and characteristics of some existing nations changing, e.g. going from a Communist economy to a Capitalist one [and therefore being able to sell computers in those countries :) ]. On the other hand, a simplified global map is available, and then a third one that randomizes nations' attributes, like being 'Rich', 'Poor', etc.

Technology research is a big aspect of this game and something that really makes it pop. Research items are quite true and faithful to real timelines and their impacts, e.g. developing a new semiconductor node -- let's say 130nm -- reduces costs per CPU made and allows for higher clock speeds and therefore performance. Everything from CPU nodes, models, and features, to system memory, storage, operating systems, displays, and power & cooling have tech research trees, totaling over 300 different technologies. The research pace is then determined but the number and level of research facilities built in different nations, along with Managers that act as bonus multipliers depending on their research skill level (1-100).

Anyways, production, manufacturing, and marketing aspects are all part of the game as well, making the gameplay very dynamic and offering tons of possibilities for how one decides to run their computer business. You're also competing against other companies, e.g. the Apples and Commodores and Dells of the world, so market share and how aggressively you decide to compete in different countries affects your sales numbers and ultimately your profitability (sometimes it doesn't make sense to compete with another established/stronger competitor in a country as marketing costs exceed profit margins on computers sold).

Digressing, Computer Tycoon has been an extremely enjoyable game for me, one that I've played almost since it's first release on Steam and have appreciated the developments to it over the years. I'd love to see it continuing to move forward and eventually leave Steam Early Access, but its success will ultimately be driven by you, the gamers that have a say and can vote with your dollars. ;)