Build-a-Lot 4 Review

Build-a-Lot 4:Power Source is a fast-paced real estate management game where you buy and sell homes for profit.

The Same Build-a-Lot But With a Different Focus

This game stays true to its Build-a-Lot roots, while exploring a different element and concern of the housing industry—energy. Yet, apart from the buying and selling of homes, which can be seen in previous versions, this version's crux is on energy and energy conservation. This theme is a constant in all the levels, and objectives revolve around energy. In fact, there is even a power tool bar and there are technicians that decrease a houses' greenhouse gas emissions.

Easy to Learn

The game plays easy. The buttons are clearly labeled and there are sufficient instructions on what needs to be done and when. Despite this ease, the game does have a drawback. The levels tended to be small and simple, not allowing the user much freedom (what you need to do is spelled out). This lack of freedom can make completing tasks surprisingly easy, especially early in the game. 

Basic Gameplay

The game opens with a really helpful and concise tutorial. The explanations are very simple and made for a quick and thorough understanding of the game. You acquire money and complete objectives based on your ability to buy and sell houses. In this game it is important to keep your tenants happy by maintaining your property and increasing the overall value of the home with quick remodeling or energy efficient upgrades. Upgrades may be as complex as building your neighborhood windmills or as simple as changing the thermostats in your properties, making them more “green.” As you make money and increase the overall happiness of your tenants you complete objectives, thus completing levels and progressing in the game.

Maybe Too Basic for Some

A drawback of the game would be the rate at which you progress. Playing for less than 10 minutes you will probably complete 2 or 3 levels. This keeps the game moving, but takes away from the strategy of starting small and growing big. You may not experience the level of freedom you may be accustomed to with other simulation games. For example the properties and lots are in fixed positions. You cannot choose where you want to build your next home. Also, because there is a level system, your results from the previous level do not carry over to the next. You may have built a superior neighborhood in level 7, but in level 8 those houses are gone and you are starting fresh with new materials and tasks.

Conclusion - Basic Real Estate Management

Overall the game is a great take on the real estate market, with a key emphasis on energy conservation. You will be entertained for countless hours whether you are a real estate expert or just someone interested in simulation games. Build-a-Lot 4: Power Source is for a casual player looking for an intriguing simulation. The gameplay is smooth and the theme of real estate is engaging; however, the levels can be short and the game may come off as juvenile. This game's grown-up ideas, simple design, and small levels make this a great game for all ages.