--EARLY ACCESS REVIEW--
beta 0.248

There is a soft, almost zen like, wonderful quality to this game. That isn't to say that this is an overly easy game or one lacking in challenge. Far from it, figuring out what to spend money on, upgrades versus stocks, loans versus skipping a desired plot, there's a lot of depth and challenge to this game. There were more than a few times when I left a round having lost money, and cursing choices I'd made. But through it all, there's this sense of calm peacefulness as you play that puts you in a relaxed spot.

The music is a perfect fit for the setting. Western themed, yet, again a bit soft and relaxing, save maybe the last month of each round where it takes on a slightly more frentic tone, reminding you to move that oil, even if it is at a loss.

The graphics are somewhat cartoonish and a bit simplified, but it works, and works well.

There are a few things I'd like to see, like maybe game settings, more or less opponents, a difficulty slider, etc. Also some of the upgrades get ridiculously expensive. FAR too expensive for how late in the game they appear, when you're trying to save money for stock auctions.

But over all, I'm amazed how much I enjoyed this game. I ran through my first entire playthrough in a little over twelve hours, but I don't doubt I'll be giving it at least one more go-through before un-installing it. I would recommend this game to anyone on the fence about buying it.

--EARLY ACCESS REVIEW-- beta 0.248 There is a soft, almost zen like, wonderful quality to this game. That isn't to say that this is an overly easy game or one lacking in challenge. Far from it, figuring out what to spend money on, upgrades versus stocks, loans versus skipping a desired plot, there's a lot of depth and challenge to this game. There were more than a few times when I left a round having lost money, and cursing choices I'd made. But through it all, there's this sense of calm peacefulness as you play that puts you in a relaxed spot. The music is a perfect fit for the setting. Western themed, yet, again a bit soft and relaxing, save maybe the last month of each round where it takes on a slightly more frentic tone, reminding you to move that oil, even if it is at a loss. The graphics are somewhat cartoonish and a bit simplified, but it works, and works well. There are a few things I'd like to see, like maybe game settings, more or less opponents, a difficulty slider, etc. Also some of the upgrades get ridiculously expensive. FAR too expensive for how late in the game they appear, when you're trying to save money for stock auctions. But over all, I'm amazed how much I enjoyed this game. I ran through my first entire playthrough in a little over twelve hours, but I don't doubt I'll be giving it at least one more go-through before un-installing it. I would recommend this game to anyone on the fence about buying it.