Build-a-Lot (Nintendo DS) - Review by Andrew

Introduction

With the rise of casual gaming on the DS it's been difficult for developers to keep up with the demand for games that might appeal to the many of 'non-gamers' out there. One way to get around this is simply port existing PC titles so companies such as HipSoft and Big Fish have plenty of 'hidden object', adventure or simulation / management titles just waiting to get the handheld treatment. Build-a-Lot is one such title and while there are likely to be features missing from the 'fully featured' version, is there still enough here to keep the average armchair property tycoon happy?

Gameplay

It may seem a little odd to release a game all about the housing market when it's currently suffering a worldwide down turn but you can at least recall the good old days with Build-a-Lot. The aim is, of course, to make money from buying, selling and flipping properties and in addition you will have to please the town's Mayor. Things begin with a welcome from the leaders where they tell just what they want to see you doing with their land. This forms a list of objectives on the top screen that you'll have to achieve to complete the level. The first thing to do though is build some properties so that you can earn some money from the rents and you will need money. Property improvements generate more rent but allow them to fall into disrepair and your tenants will refuse to pay. With more capital you can build more houses and even industrial properties although these require not only more workers but also the blueprints, which you'll also have to purchase.

Everything is done against a timer and, while things are relatively simple to begin with, you'll quickly be building properties with split second timing. This is because you won't get paid for anything which is 'in progress' so renovations or half-built properties will actually cost you money. Then, there's tax. This can ruin you very quickly indeed and is probably the main reason you have to repeatedly restart a level, especially when you see just how much you'll have to pay on even a modest property. There is way around this however and that is to build a bank and give your profits to charity. This sounds a little complicated and it is however the constant juggling act is what makes the whole experience so satisfying and we haven't even touched on the luxury apartments of building inspectors yet. There are 30 or so levels to conquer but once it's over that's it. The Casual Mode offers little challenge once you've completed the Career, which is a shame really and some extended gameplay would be welcome.

Controls

Mouse driven on the PC and, therefore, completely stylus driven here.

Graphics

As with most games of this nature the visuals are much more about clarity than anything groundbreaking and they look like much an average graphic novel. If you've played the PC version there's little difference in terms of presentation and the developers are always aware that navigation is key. The animation is simplistic too and while there's some indication of what's going on with the various constructions and renovations, it's fair to say that neither Disney nor Pixar have anything to worry about.

Sound

Overall, it's not too bad and definitely aimed towards pleasing the casual gamer although the 'Irish' theme which accompanies Mayor O'Brien's River Glen is a little cringe-worthy.

Dual screen

No dragging and dropping just simply select what you want and where you want it. It's casual gaming control at its best. There is a lot to take in though so you will be forced to work through a tutorial embedded into the first few levels although this is no bad thing.

Final comments

We've recently reviewed Hysteria Hospital and if you are a fan of repeatedly carrying out chores against the clock with pressure mounting, then Build-a-Lot is probably for you. Don't let the no-frills presentation and average soundtrack put you off as there's a fair amount of gameplay to enjoy here and while you'll fly though the initial levels the later ones will require repeated attempts. The only real downside is the lack of Multiplayer and the fact that once you've completed the Career mode, the Casual Mode has little to offer, but if you are still unsure there's still likely to be a PC demo on offer somewhere on the web.

Pro: Well Balanced Learning Curve.
Con: A Little Too Short with No Multiplayer.
Final score: 7.2

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