Zamboni Simulator 2019

About

Zamboni Simulator 2019 is a single player simulation game with horror and erotic themes. It was developed by Stay Small Studios and was released on May 26, 2020. It received positive reviews from players.

Zamboni Simulator 2019 is a game about existential nihilism, depression, family, love, and ice resurfacing. It is an almost all original game including original art and music, but with recycled junk philosophy.

Genres & Tags

Play Modes

Single-Player

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90%

Audience ScoreBased on 238 reviews

story20 positive mentions

grinding5 negative mentions

Unique and immersive storytelling with deep philosophical and existential themes.
Relaxing and meditative gameplay that captures the monotony and routine of ice resurfacing realistically.
Authentic atmosphere enhanced by detailed sound design, decent physics, and a calming soundtrack.

Gameplay is very slow, repetitive, and minimalistic, which can become boring quickly for many players.
Lack of realistic Zamboni controls and simulation depth disappoints players expecting a true simulator experience.
Narration and protagonist's attitude can be polarizing; some find it depressing, nihilistic, or annoying.

story
58 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
34%
54%
12%
The story is widely praised for its emotional depth, immersive narrative, and thoughtful exploration of mental health and personal tragedy, often seen as the main draw of the game. However, many find the pacing slow and the gameplay repetitive, which can detract from engagement and make it challenging to fully appreciate the story. Overall, the narrative resonates strongly with players seeking a reflective, atmospheric experience, though it may not appeal to those wanting more dynamic gameplay.
- “The immense depth and amazing storyline paired with riveting gameplay is immensely prodigious; it's hard to comprehend.”
- “The way this game conveys mental issues through a calming experience, whilst talking about the zamboni conductor's life experiences that brought him to his emotional state, makes it a great overall experience of a story and brings a somewhat sad tone to the game, while you don't have much of a challenge added into the beautiful story and character development you see in this game.”
- “On the surface this is just a dumb game about cleaning an ice rink but, as you play, you are immersed in the life of a man that has lost everything; the simplistic gameplay is outshone by the writing, the story, and the delivery of the lines.”
- “I couldn't make it past the second mission because it was so boring.”
- “Combining a genre meme with a reluctant story of tragedy delivers poorly as none of the elements mesh together well enough.”
- “Couldn't get into the very very slow story, the satisfaction I got from fully cleaning the ice wore off after the second chapter.”
gameplay
20 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
25%
55%
20%
The gameplay of Zamboni Simulator 2019 is simple, slow-paced, and repetitive, often described as tedious but intentionally designed to complement the game's story and emotional themes. While lacking in mechanical depth or realism, this minimalistic approach supports the narrative focus and character development, though some players find the monotony difficult to endure. Overall, the gameplay serves primarily as a backdrop for the immersive storytelling rather than a stand-alone engaging experience.
- “One of the standout features of Zamboni Simulator 2019 is its meticulous attention to detail and depth of gameplay.”
- “This rich ecosystem of user-generated content, combined with the game's stunning visuals, deeply satisfying gameplay, and thought-provoking undertones, makes Zamboni Simulator 2019 a standout title.”
- “There is no other game of this caliber that delves into philosophy and at the same time delivers engaging and revolutionary gameplay.”
- “The slow-paced gameplay and monotonous monologue make for a tedious experience that's hard to endure.”
- “Its promising premise is overshadowed by sluggish gameplay and pretentious philosophizing, making it a disappointing experience for players seeking a meaningful simulation experience.”
- “Not only are the mechanics not aligned with real zamboni operating, it completely misses the mark on why we drive a zamboni.”
music
15 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
47%
33%
20%
The music in the game evokes mixed reactions, with many praising its calming, serene, and fittingly existential piano soundtrack that enhances the atmosphere, while others find it repetitive, too loud, or even annoying. Some players highlight its emotional impact and immersion, though a few wish for more dynamic or mood-reflective compositions. Overall, the soundtrack is a key element that deeply influences the game's tone and player experience.
- “Coupled with a serene and soothing soundtrack, the game creates a calming atmosphere that makes you want to linger and perfect your craft.”
- “Its simplicity is magnificent, the music fits with the stinging existentialism you feel as you drag that zamboni across the ice, and the short paragraphs drag you back into reality, while making you question your own.”
- “The soundtrack, the voice acting, and the story are entrancing.”
- “More depressing music.”
- “The piano music makes me want to kick small children.”
- “Good story but holy hell is the music annoying, and just like the game; boring.”
graphics
8 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
63%
24%
13%
The graphics in Zamboni Simulator 2019 are widely praised for their stunning and realistic ice visuals, with detailed rinks ranging from professional arenas to outdoor ponds. While some note that backgrounds are simpler or occasionally lack polish due to the game's rapid development, the overall visual experience is immersive and beautifully crafted, contributing significantly to the game's unique charm.
- “The graphics are stunning, with beautifully rendered ice rinks that range from professional hockey arenas to charming outdoor skating ponds.”
- “Best game I have ever played; the realism is astonishing and the graphics are beautiful.”
- “Visuals are perfectly fitting for the game, with drab backgrounds yet stunning ice.”
- “The graphics, while fairly awful (aside from the nice shine of the ice once you've finished your work), can be excused as this was a game developed in merely 3 days for a jam or competition.”
emotional
6 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game delivers a heartfelt and emotionally impactful experience, effectively conveying mental health themes through its calming narrative and character development. While many players found the story touching and sad, some felt the emotional depth could have been amplified with stronger follow-through and enhanced mechanics. Overall, it evokes genuine emotional responses, including moments of sadness and reflection.
- “The way this game conveys mental issues through a calming experience, whilst talking about the Zamboni conductor's life experiences that brought him to his emotional state makes it a great overall story experience. It brings a somewhat sad tone to the game, and despite having little challenge, the beautiful story and character development stand out.”
- “Very heartbreaking and sad, loved the experience. Would like an updated version.”
- “It made me cry.”
humor
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The humor is quirky and creative, eliciting reactions ranging from confusion to laughter and appreciation. It combines playful sounds and wordplay with a subtle touch of existential wit, showcasing the writers' cleverness.
- “The reaction goes from 'what the ♥♥♥♥ is that?' to laughing, to listening, to understanding.”
- “Funny vroom vroom with a bit of existential dread.”
- “It is clear the writers have a sense of humor as well as a hefty helping of creativity.”
grinding
5 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
Grinding in the game is characterized by slow-paced, repetitive, and tedious gameplay, particularly the zamboni-driving sections, which some players found monotonous but also fitting thematically. While this grind can detract from enjoyment, it contributes to the storytelling by reinforcing the game's somber and introspective mood. Overall, the grinding aspect is seen as both a narrative tool and a potential source of boredom.
- “The slow-paced gameplay and monotonous monologue make for a tedious experience that's hard to endure.”
- “Zamboni driving is tedious work even in a video game, an interesting way to keep the player busy as the character tells you his story of pain, most self-induced, some from bad luck.”
- “It's a tedious game with a generic story of a guy with a giant ego becoming an alcoholic.”
atmosphere
4 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
75%
25%
The game's atmosphere is widely praised for its calming and immersive qualities, enhanced by a soothing soundtrack and engaging story. Players appreciate the tranquil environment that encourages lingering and skill refinement, though some humorously suggest adding more interactive elements to deepen the experience.
- “Coupled with a serene and soothing soundtrack, the game creates a calming atmosphere that makes you want to linger and perfect your craft.”
- “Good story and atmosphere.”
- “I really like the atmosphere.”
- “Give me EA Games NHL hockey atmosphere with the ability to only drive the zamboni during the game and then we'll talk.”
stability
2 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game has a few minor glitches, but they don't significantly impact the experience. Users anticipate a hot fix soon to address these issues.
- “Found some glitches and expect a hot fix soon!”
replayability
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game offers a calming, meditative core experience enhanced by varied challenges and objectives that add excitement and encourage replayability. These elements, like perfecting the smoothest ice or racing against time, provide motivation for multiple playthroughs.
character development
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game offers a thoughtful and calming portrayal of mental health through the zamboni conductor's life experiences, creating a poignant and emotionally rich character development. While the story is compelling and well-crafted, it is presented without significant gameplay challenge, focusing more on narrative depth than difficulty.
- “The way this game conveys mental issues through a calming experience, while discussing the Zamboni conductor's life experiences that brought him to his emotional state, creates a great overall story experience. It adds a somewhat sad tone to the game, and despite the lack of added challenges, the story and character development are beautifully presented.”
monetization
1 mentions Positive Neutral Negative
100%
The game features a straightforward monetization approach with no microtransactions, paywalls, season passes, DLCs, or additional launchers, ensuring a fully accessible experience without extra costs or restrictions.
- “No microtransactions, no pay walls, no season pass, no DLC, no Denuvo, no launchers.”