by Deanne E. Durrell

Created on: May 19, 2008   Last Updated: May 25, 2008

Possessed of some fairly good graphics and easy-to-learn, but somewhat challenging gameplay, Build A Lot 2: Town of the Year delivers where many games lack. As the name would indicate, this is the second installment in a series of games, the first of which was called Build A Lot. Never having been a particular fan of real estate development games, I was pleasantly surprised to find this game engaging and it is one that I would actually spend the money on once the trial version is finished. In fact, I might be tempted to purchase it even before the trial period is over, which is something I never do.

Much like the original game, this sequel provides the play with several neighborhoods of differing character that can be played in either campaign mode or casual mode. There is ample opportunity to play around with different ways to achieve the goals of each level and there's something nice about being able to easily rack up career earnings in the millions of dollars when it's near impossible to do so in real life. When you're done with the neighborhood, the mayor invariably gives you a token of his or her appreciation. There's a real story to the game, which is an attraction because it allows the player to really get involved more deeply into the objectives. The new plot development in this installation is the Town of the Year competition that each little burg is competing for. The player's role is to help them beautify and improve themselves so that they can win that coveted title.

The sound quality of the game is good and the game regales the player with sounds of construction during play and when a level is finished there are balloons and fanfare to cheer you on your progress. It may not be sparklingly original, given that something similar happens in Build A Lot, but it supports the game's premise rather than detracting from it. The game play is smooth and without glitches or quirks. All in all, this is a pleasant game with excellent potential as a source of stress relief. Rating 4/5 (because a little more originality with the storyline never hurts).

Learn more about this author, Deanne E. Durrell.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.