Summary
- Release Year: 2005
- Genres: Simulator, Strategy
- Platforms: Linux, Mac, PC (Microsoft Windows)
- Developers: Red Marble Games
- Publishers: Positech Games, Tri-Synergy
Democracy (2005): A Government Simulation Masterpiece
Released in 2005, Democracy is a government simulation game developed by Positech Games. It puts players in the role of the president or prime minister of a democratic country, tasked with introducing and altering policies in seven key areas: tax, economy, welfare, foreign policy, transport, law and order, and public services.
Each policy decision has a direct impact on the happiness of various voter groups, as well as on factors such as crime and air quality. Players must also deal with “situations”, which are typically problems such as petrol protests or homelessness, and make decisions on dilemmas that arise each turn.
Democracy is a complex and challenging game, but it is also deeply rewarding. It offers players a unique opportunity to experience the complexities of governing a country, and to learn about the real-world consequences of different policy decisions.
Gameplay
Democracy is played on a turn-based system. Each turn represents one month in-game. During each turn, players can:
- Introduce new policies or alter existing ones
- Deal with situations
- Make decisions on dilemmas
- View reports on the state of the country
Players have a wide range of policies to choose from, covering a variety of topics. For example, players can:
- Increase or decrease taxes
- Change the minimum wage
- Invest in education or healthcare
- Declare war or make peace
- Build new roads or railways
The decisions that players make have a significant impact on the country. For example, increasing taxes may make voters unhappy, but it can also generate more revenue for the government. Investing in education can improve the skills of the workforce, but it can also be expensive.
Players must carefully consider the consequences of their decisions before making them. There is no one right way to play Democracy, and the best approach will vary depending on the player’s goals and the situation in the country.
Situations and Dilemmas
In addition to making policy decisions, players must also deal with situations. Situations are typically problems that arise in the country, such as petrol protests or homelessness. Players must decide how to respond to each situation, and their decision will have a significant impact on the country.
Dilemmas are similar to situations, but they typically involve a moral or ethical choice. For example, players may be faced with the dilemma of whether to allow a controversial new drug to be sold in the country. There is no easy answer to dilemmas, and players must weigh the pros and cons of each option before making a decision.
Graphics and Sound
Democracy is not a graphically intensive game. The graphics are simple and functional, but they do the job. The game’s sound effects are also minimal, but they are effective in creating a sense of atmosphere.
Overall
Democracy is a well-crafted and engaging government simulation game. It offers players a unique opportunity to experience the complexities of governing a country, and to learn about the real-world consequences of different policy decisions. The game is challenging, but it is also deeply rewarding.
Review Score: 8/10
Pros:
- Complex and challenging gameplay
- Wide range of policies to choose from
- Decisions have a significant impact on the country
- Situations and dilemmas add variety to the gameplay
Cons:
- Graphics are simple
- Sound effects are minimal
- Can be difficult to learn for new players
Review Score
8/10
