14 DAY TRIAL // Nintendo's DS is one of the best platforms for releasing fun and educational games on. It is actually perfect for games that are both fun and educational, like Majesco Entertainment's upcoming simulation title Toy Shop. The game has players struggling to get a toy shop back on its feet by creating ever more interesting and fun toys, while managing store inventory, customers and budget.
Majesco claims that players will be able to choose their style of play. As such, one can opt to assume full control of all aspects of the family toy business or just make toys to sell in the store. As the business grows, seasonal holidays will attract new customers that will in turn help the business grow and of course, unlock additional store locations. As for the management approach, players use the stylus to make toys, adjust prices, manage merchandising and review customer habits that affect buying patterns.
Yes, the unhappy customer spreading the word applies in Toy Shop as much as it does in real life, so no doubt we're talking about a real simulation game here, in which players can create more than 30 toys for the store, including teddy bears, action figures and board games. A tutorial will also be available to help future entrepreneurs learn the ropes of the business.
"The concept for this unique simulation is like Santa's workshop meets retail tycoon," said John Merchant, Marketing Manager, Majesco Europe. "Toy Shop combines creative toy-making with overall store management to give players insight into the challenging, yet rewarding, business of fun. We believe Toy Shop has the same type of appeal as successful casual games like Cooking Mama and Cake Mania."
Majesco and Gameinvest still have to produce a solid launch date for the DS exclusive so stay tuned for an update from either of the two companies.