Embarking on the adventure of writing about Times of Progress can feel akin to stepping onto an uncharted path in a dense forest. My exploration began with an intriguing tip from Sin Vega, the Prime Minister of Strategy Gaming, igniting a spark of excitement and trepidation. Reflecting on Sin’s playful analogy, where articling was compared to performing a backflip before a kung fu master, immediately put pressure on my fledgling writing skills. Coupled with the daunting task of uncovering a new city-building game—one that symbolizes a significant shift in gaming—my enthusiasm was overshadowed by concerns over inadequacy. Moreover, a whirlwind of distractions, such as industry conferences and other obligations, added layers of delay to my anticipated exploration of the game. Regretfully, I hesitated for months, unsure of how to articulate my findings until now.
The first facet that stands out regarding Times of Progress is its visual presentation. It transports players to a geometrically imaginative setting but grounded in historical context—specifically, the Industrial Revolution. The game showcases procedurally generated landscapes where railways and roads forge diamond-shaped town layouts. The color palette—featuring hues of pale earth, red bricks, and lush green hills—creates an inviting atmosphere that is anything but sterile. The vibrant animations, such as plumes of smoke rising from chimneys, play a significant role in breathing life into the game, illustrating various aspects of urban evolution. While some may argue the approach is decidedly minimalist, there is an undeniable richness in its textures and details that captivates the eye, enhancing the overall user experience.
What sets Times of Progress apart from traditional city-builders is its innovative approach to technological advancement. Instead of allowing players to freely assign scientists to research emerging technologies, the game introduces a timeline system reflective of historical progress. This immersive element means that advancements such as the typewriter or electrolysis emerge organically as players navigate through the Industrial Revolution. Players earn points by achieving specific goals, allowing for the acquisition of technologies that can be imported into their burgeoning cities. This aspect lends the gameplay an intriguing strategic depth, requiring users to weave their decisions into the larger tapestry of historical developments.
Additionally, trade takes center stage in Times of Progress. Without the typically present military or cultural dimensions, players directed their focus towards mercantile interactions with AI-controlled cities. This shift emphasizes the economic dynamics prevalent during the Industrial Revolution while allowing for a different form of engagement with other metropolises.
One of the most compelling elements intertwined with the gameplay is the social dynamics of labor politics. As players build their cities, they confront the possibility of worker strikes if laborers are not compensated adequately over time. The need to balance operational demands with worker satisfaction adds an essential layer of complexity. Players must navigate the often-turbulent waters of labor relations, making critical choices between meeting demands and enforcing strict measures. The introduction of laws allowing for unionization provides an opportunity for a more organized and potentially efficient workforce, though these come with increased costs.
This balancing act captures the essence of the socio-political strife characteristic of the era, further rooting the gameplay in historical fidelity. In doing so, Times of Progress does not simply present a model train set for players to construct; it intricately weaves history with gameplay choices, thus enhancing the narrative experience itself.
As we peer into the bright horizon of Times of Progress, it stands as more than just a game; it acts as a reflection of the complexities inherent within urban development and social structures of a specific period. The fact that this endeavor springs from a solo developer operating in Berlin—Pressing Thumbs Games—highlights a commendable dedication to creating a rich, engaging experience. With aspirations to bridge historical narrative and strategic gameplay, I eagerly await future insights from Sin Vega to further enrich our understanding of this fascinating title. For now, fans can explore the depths of Times of Progress on Steam, discovering a unique blend of innovation and history that urges players to think critically and engage thoughtfully.