Casual tycoon game brings you some refreshing action

Aug 11, 2008 17:06 GMT  ·  By

Short casual games, even though repetitive and utterly frustrating at some point, usually manage to offer some really fun first few hours to the players. Recent tycoon games, especially those developed by independent companies, succeed in giving us the same thing minus the "utterly frustrating" part - and it's something that's going to be proven by Now Boarding, a sim title from indie game developer Gabob.

The game challenges you with the task to create calm from chaos in a busy airport, while leading the passengers to the correct destination before they freak out and totally lose it. A combination between a time management and a tycoon game, Now Boarding has one main goal: to offer a relaxing experience to every player.

Of course, things might seem a bit spooky at first since chaos rules Airways Airlines, the company you are hired at, after previous management fled the country, leaving it upside down. You'll have to step in and take charge to right the wrongs: pick up and drop off passengers to a growing number of destinations, route planes and don't leave anyone behind, hire employees and lead your team to success. If this sounds a bit too complicated, trust me: it is not! You just need to get the game and see it for yourself (yes, you can download a demo here).

The basic gameplay in Now Boarding is accompanied by lots of customization features. You'll be able to renovate your terminals with seats, stores and snack machines or decorate them with plants and paintings to make them more inviting. There are three game types to test your skills (varying from Free Play to Survival Mode), achievements and unlockables waiting to be discovered and a great soundtrack you will never get bored of. All in all, Now boarding promises to bring you some casual fun, different from cooking mamas or wedding dashes.