GearCity
- January 14, 2022
- Visual Entertainment And Technologies
- 90h median play time
Get on Steam"GearCity is a single-player business strategy game with spectacular mechanics and good graphics, simulating the historic global automobile industry. Create and manage every aspect of your car company, from designing vehicles to setting prices and negotiating deals. Despite some grinding and bugs, its complexity and realism provide high replayability, challenging you to become a successful industry leader."
Mac OS
PC
Windows
Linux
Reviews
- Deep and complex car company simulation with a rich economic model.
- Highly addictive gameplay that rewards strategic thinking and planning.
- Active developer who is responsive to community feedback and regularly updates the game.
- Clunky and outdated user interface that can be difficult to navigate.
- Steep learning curve that may frustrate new players.
- Occasional crashes and bugs that can disrupt gameplay.
- graphics137 mentions
- 21 % positive mentions
- 69 % neutral mentions
- 9 % negative mentions
The graphics of the game are widely regarded as outdated and simplistic, reminiscent of titles from the late 1990s and early 2000s. While they may not impress visually, many players find that the gameplay depth and economic simulation elements more than compensate for the lack of graphical fidelity. Overall, the game prioritizes functionality and data over aesthetics, making it a solid choice for fans of management simulations who value gameplay over visuals.
“The graphics remind me of the 1990s games, but who needs graphics when you can study graphs and statistics and design cars all day!”
“Graphics and GUI are basic and remind me of gaming 20 years ago - for me this works well, but may be a showstopper for some of you.”
“The graphics aren't groundbreaking, and the UI design is messy, but it satisfies that car tycoon itch.”
“The graphics are clearly outdated, as is the UI.”
“The only gripe I can see people finding with this game is the sub-par graphics.”
“The graphics look dated, but not distractingly so.”
- gameplay101 mentions
- 24 % positive mentions
- 70 % neutral mentions
- 6 % negative mentions
The gameplay of GearCity is characterized by its deep economic mechanics and complex car design systems, offering a rewarding experience for players who enjoy intricate management simulations. While the interface can be overwhelming and the game has a steep learning curve, many players appreciate the depth and replayability it provides, despite some frustrations with tedium and lack of polish. Overall, it appeals to those who prioritize gameplay over graphics, though it may not be suitable for everyone due to its challenging mechanics and occasional bugs.
“The gameplay is great.”
“It's definitely not perfect but the gameplay loop is very satisfying once you figure out how everything works and how to run a successful business.”
“Gameplay over graphics was the priority and it shows; the gameplay is deep and immersive.”
“Absolutely terrible, confusing mechanics and gameplay, very poorly implemented.”
“The game isn't pretty enough or interesting enough to justify the level of tedium on the business side of things, and the cars themselves don't have anywhere near the level of mechanical detail as a game like Automation.”
“The current gameplay is too frustrating, having to start over and over again just to find the right strategy is not fun anymore.”
- optimization25 mentions
- 12 % positive mentions
- 76 % neutral mentions
- 12 % negative mentions
The game's optimization is a mixed bag; while it runs smoothly on capable systems, users find the production recalibration process cumbersome and lacking flexibility. The depth of mechanics and customization options is appreciated, but the interface can be obtuse, and performance issues arise as the game progresses into later years. Overall, while there are areas for improvement, the game maintains a stable performance and offers a rich experience for those willing to navigate its complexities.
“I really don't care about graphics; for me, the most important things for a game to have are: run smoothly and give me all the data my eyes are craving.”
“There is a 3D vehicle designer - and the body actually affects the performance of the vehicle (pick a van body with a huge storage area...).”
“There are a lot of components to mix and match, and you have to decide not only how large or how complex the components are, but also what you want to focus on - dependability, power, performance, quality, market demographics, reliability, cargo... there are a lot of possibilities.”
“That's great, but after pressing the 'refurbish' button, production isn't optimized and you have to go factory by factory, production line by production line, pressing a single button each time to recalculate car output.”
“Poorly optimized and has some weirdness with some cars being always super popular but new enhanced models don't sell almost at all.”
“I hope the dev keeps updating this awesome game, because there are lots of little problems and optimizations to be made.”
- music22 mentions
- 27 % positive mentions
- 59 % neutral mentions
- 14 % negative mentions
The music in the game is noted for its immersive character and evolving styles, transitioning from classical to modern as gameplay progresses, which enhances the overall experience. While many players appreciate the soundtrack and the ability to add custom music, some criticize it as generic or monotonous, suggesting that it may not hold up in a menu-driven context. Overall, the music contributes positively to the game's atmosphere, though opinions on its quality vary significantly.
“Every bit of flavor text, every mechanic, every backdrop, the music, everything has an immense amount of character that is simply astonishing.”
“Very good game, gets addicting and the song 'Dawn' fits the game very well, I gotta say.”
“Even your office will evolve from a typewriter and classical music to a computer and modern pop music.”
“The music is, for the most part, a cacophony of terribadness, so be prepared to just turn that off and play your own music, but that's not a big loss since even the most brilliant soundtrack gets monotonous in an exclusively menu-driven game.”
“Music is very, very generic.”
“There are many songs in the game that change as the years pass.”
- replayability19 mentions
- 47 % positive mentions
- 37 % neutral mentions
- 16 % negative mentions
Overall, the game is praised for its high replayability, offering a variety of gameplay options, customization, and engaging mechanics that encourage players to return. Many users highlight the depth and flexibility in gameplay, making it suitable for fans of strategy and simulation genres. Despite some criticisms regarding the user interface and certain gameplay aspects, the consensus is that the game provides significant replay value and ongoing enjoyment.
“There's a large amount of variety and replayability as you get to have a lot of flexibility in your car making.”
“Super fun and hours of replayability.”
“The good parts are: the most active dev I have ever seen, a game with an amazing replay value.”
“You see how it looks, but gameplay is the true meat of this rough gem of a game and honestly I wish there were more strategy games like this one, not some dumbed down garbage with no replayability value.”
“Let's close down all the factories. I'd find the game much more playable if I could develop cheap, useful, and reliable trucks, or maybe tanks to help the war cause.”
“I will surely raise my evaluation when the game reaches a more playable state.”
- grinding19 mentions
- 16 % positive mentions
- -11 % neutral mentions
- 95 % negative mentions
Players frequently describe the grinding aspect of the game as tedious and frustrating, particularly due to the overwhelming amount of information and the need for extensive micromanagement. While some appreciate the depth and complexity, many feel that the user interface and navigation hinder the experience, making tasks feel repetitive and laborious. Automation features are often requested to alleviate the monotony of managing multiple aspects of the game.
“You'll need a second life for grinding.”
“Grinding in this game is incredibly rewarding and keeps you engaged.”
“The grind is satisfying and offers a real sense of progression.”
“At times it is definitely tedious and frequently the game overproduces information for the player.”
“Because doing production yourself is an incredibly tedious and frustrating task.”
“I will admit that when you get into the later stages and you have multiple marques and companies with excess of 80 models selling, it is sometimes tough and extremely tedious to maintain the ideal balance.”
- stability18 mentions
- 17 % positive mentions
- -6 % neutral mentions
- 89 % negative mentions
The stability of the game has received mixed reviews, with many users reporting frequent freezes, crashes, and bugs, particularly during the design phase and when navigating menus. While some players note improvements and fewer issues compared to earlier versions, others still experience significant performance problems, especially when multitasking. Overall, the game is considered unstable, especially for those seeking a bug-free experience, but it shows potential for improvement with ongoing updates.
“The gameplay is very in-depth and bug-free.”
“The game runs smoothly without any major issues.”
“I appreciate the stability; it allows me to fully immerse myself in the experience.”
“I lost count of how many designs and progress I lost because of freezes and crashes.”
“I find that GearCity still is lacking in some departments, like loading times, or how the entire game freezes when you tab away, which hurts especially when processing turns, or the unintuitive nature of the menus that make up the core gameplay.”
“This game is also very buggy and even though my computer has four times the recommended requirements, it makes my computer struggle to play it.”
- monetization9 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 100 % negative mentions
The monetization aspect of the game emphasizes a complex simulation where players must strategically manage various financial elements, including advertising, production costs, and personnel expenses. While vehicle design is a component, the focus is heavily on maximizing profits through effective marketing and dealership expansion, often overshadowing the creative aspects of car development. Players appreciate the realistic financial planning required, which includes considerations for R&D, labor, and market trends.
“Anything you do in terms of vehicle design is absolutely eclipsed by the need to spend more on advertising and open more branches.”
“It seems to fade into the background compared to the overwhelming focus on advertising, an excessive number of overpriced car models, and numerous dealerships.”
“Having to plan the prices based on the cost of materials, R&D, labor, transport, and advertising was impressive, but it feels like a burden rather than a feature.”
- story5 mentions
- 0 % positive mentions
- 60 % neutral mentions
- 40 % negative mentions
The story is set in a well-grounded economic simulation primarily based in the United States, particularly New York, and explores the intriguing and often tawdry narratives surrounding car manufacturers. Players find the storyline engaging, adding depth to their gameplay experience.
“The economic sim seems well grounded, and there's also a focus on everything that has made the story of car manufacturers tawdry and interesting.”
“But here's the story of my current playthrough:”
- humor3 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The humor in the game is highlighted through its funny magazine reviews and challenges, which add a lighthearted touch to the otherwise detailed and complex gameplay involving car design and management. Players appreciate the blend of humor with the game's extensive statistics and mechanics, enhancing the overall experience.
“Automation gives you a much better car/engine designer, a more active community with funny challenges, and the possibility to drive your cars in BeamNG. It's still in active development, getting better every couple of months.”
“Monumental level of detail, from opening factories, marketing effects, designing cars, race teams, vehicle popularity, labor skills, reports, and funny magazine reviews.”
“The game features a monumental level of detail, including opening factories, designing cars, race teams, reports, and humorous magazine reviews.”
- atmosphere2 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
The game is praised for its beautiful atmosphere, which enhances player immersion and control, particularly for those who take the time to understand the graphical user interface. Overall, the atmosphere is consistently described as great, contributing positively to the gaming experience.
“The game has a beautiful atmosphere, and the player really feels in control if one manages to understand how things are shown in the GUI.”
“The atmosphere of the game is great.”
- emotional1 mentions
- 100 % positive mentions
- 0 % neutral mentions
- 0 % negative mentions
Players find the emotional journey of the game to be both challenging and rewarding, as initial struggles lead to significant achievements. However, this success is tempered by a poignant sense of loss and heartbreak as the consequences of overexpansion and complacency unfold over time.
“It's difficult, especially at first, but that just makes it so very, very rewarding when you finally hit it big, and all the more heartbreaking 50 years down the line as your company decays under the weight of overexpansion, pensions, and complacency.”
