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A fun video game for Windows where you get to build your own island city

A fun video game for Windows where you get to build your own island city

Vote: (4 votes)

Program license: Free

Developer: Sparkling Society

Version: 2017

Works under: Windows

Also available for Mac Android

Vote:

Program license

(4 votes)

Free

Developer

Version

Sparkling Society

2017

Works under:

Also available for

Windows

Mac Android

Pros

  • Accessible gameplay suitable for genre newcomers
  • Limited need for in-app purchases due to fair economic balance
  • Diverse terrains adding variety to city-building challenges
  • Charming visual aesthetic
  • Non-intrusive freemium model with the option to remove ads

Cons

  • Building options can be confusing due to lack of categorization
  • Fixed camera angle can hinder building placement
  • Some design elements, like bulldozing, feel unnecessary
  • Graphics and music may not stand out in the genre
  • Controls for moving buildings can be finicky

City builders and management game enthusiasts can find a casual and enjoyable experience with "City Island 3," a continuation of the City Island series that entices players with its laid-back approach and new features.

Build, Manage, and Expand

"City Island 3" delves into a familiar formula where players are tasked with creating a bustling urban environment from the ground up. At the heart of the game is a balance between residential, commercial, and leisure spaces. The challenge lies in ensuring that the burgeoning populace of virtual citizens remains content with adequate housing, employment opportunities, and amenities.

The gameplay is designed to be accessible, especially for those who might be new to the city-building genre. The learning curve is gentle, with intuitive mechanics that allow players to easily grasp the fundamentals of constructing and managing their urban paradise.

Economic Dynamics and Accessibility

Monetary flow in "City Island 3" is relatively straightforward; as your city develops and your level increases, financial rewards follow. This progress yields satisfaction as players can expand without incessant prompts for in-game purchases, a departure from the aggressive monetization tactics seen in many free-to-play titles.

Yet, the game incorporates a system where only a maximum of five buildings can be constructed or upgraded simultaneously. This establishes a strategic element where players must prioritize projects and adds a layer of management to city planning, albeit at the cost of potentially slowing down game pace.

Advertising is present but can be disposed of with a single fee. This approach ensures a better "freemium" experience where the game feels less like a cash grab and more focused on player enjoyment.

Diversity in Terrain and the Challenge it Brings

Distinguishing itself from predecessors, "City Island 3" brings a variety of terrains for players to conquer. Each area - from sandy beaches to volcanic fields - requires specific buildings that can only be placed there, which adds complexity and depth to the building experience. However, some may find the lack of categorization in the building menu to be a hindrance, leading to a guess-and-check method that can detract from the overall enjoyment.

Some sections of the map also require bulldozing before construction can commence, a feature that seems more like an unnecessary obstacle rather than an engaging gameplay mechanic.

Presentation and Immersion

Graphically, the game doesn't quite hit the high marks set by some of its contemporaries in terms of vibrancy and detail, but it compensates with a charming aesthetic that exudes warmth. The fixed camera angle may sometimes complicate placement and visualization, particularly when laying roads or adjusting structures behind existing buildings. Additionally, the game's soundtrack, while unobtrusive, is not particularly memorable.

In terms of controls, some players may find maneuvering buildings slightly cumbersome, indicating room for improvement in UI responsiveness and precision.

In conclusion, "City Island 3" offers an accessible and relaxing entry point into city management games, with sufficient depth to keep players engaged through strategic building and expansion. The game excels in offering a non-predatory free-to-play experience, even if at times it encounters some user-interface and design challenges. It's a solid choice for those looking to craft and grow their virtual cities without the pressure of constant microtransactions.

Pros

  • Accessible gameplay suitable for genre newcomers
  • Limited need for in-app purchases due to fair economic balance
  • Diverse terrains adding variety to city-building challenges
  • Charming visual aesthetic
  • Non-intrusive freemium model with the option to remove ads

Cons

  • Building options can be confusing due to lack of categorization
  • Fixed camera angle can hinder building placement
  • Some design elements, like bulldozing, feel unnecessary
  • Graphics and music may not stand out in the genre
  • Controls for moving buildings can be finicky