Recent reviews by dead_things_doc

Aquarium designer is a charming and promising game, with thoughtful design and with room for growth. It is overall aesthetically pleasing, relaxing and enjoyable.

Although the Devs have reported that a survey of ~800 person indicated only 16 or so were interested in advanced simulator aspects (e.g. nitrate/nitrate cycles, pH fluctuations based on flora/fauna/feeding, etc.), I do feel that the 'realistic' mode is lacking these features, or at the very least, a toggle option for them, so that those interested in learning about aquaria ecosystem balance have the opportunity to learn.

Recommendations for improvement:
- Consideration of Advanced realistic mode for those interested in dynamic ecosystems and water quality management
- Standardization of reporting for fish difficulty level; this is currently reported in the fish descriptions and is sporadically omitted. A standardized header/search function in the store would be useful (difficulty level, size, compatible with x species, etc).
- Some sort of reporting system for fish species compatibility/conflicts; either a toggle list/search function or listed somewhere in the fish profile. At present, it seems to be guess and check. A species wiki, or encyclopedia (akin to what is available in Planet Zoo) would be instructive, helpful and fun.
- Inclusion of algae management species (pleco, snails) that add to the biome and increase tank diversity

I feel like Planet Zoo suggests there IS a player base interested in more hands on management features, and at minimum, a standardized reporting system for species requirements and compatibility would be very helpful.

Overall, I am enjoying to this game and looking forward to seeing it grow. I do hope the Devs are open to additional some additional complexity, as at present it seems pretty "set it and forget it" aside from some occasional feeding/cleaning/water filter swaps.