#Tropico 5 multiplayer review series#

From the Cold War into the modern era, you have to be thinking about making the switch into a more developed import/export economy, lest you risk stagnation. Each new era brings more factions to the forefront, while your own efforts steadily strip your island of its resources. The circus is in town.That pattern continues through the Cold War era, at which point your problems are starting to become more economic and political. It creates some basic risk-reward decisions, as getting cozy with one gives you the most favorable trading offers… but could also get you swatted down by the other power. The early Colonial Era gives way to the World Wars, where both Axis and Allies are furiously buying up supplies and vying for your affections. The march of time also escalates the challenges you face. You start in the early 20th century and work your way up to the modern era, though the art doesn't convey the changing eras very well.

#Tropico 5 multiplayer review series#

First, it now unfolds across a series of eras, each with their own associated buildings (unlocked via a simple and almost meaningless research tree) and world events. Tropico 5 largely sticks to that formula with a couple key changes. You slap down a few plantations, start exporting bananas and coffee to the rest of the world, and then get to work expanding your shantytown empire - all while taking in the lush sights and sound of a slightly debauched tropical paradise.

That's not necessarily a bad thing: it's generally let you get on with the fun of building without tearing your hair out over finicky optimization games like the (also excellent) Anno series. Play As a city-building game, the Tropico series has historically emphasized fun and style over challenge.