Let Them Trade REVIEW

Games that incorporate multiple game mechanics are common in the city-building genre, giving each game a unique character. Games like Cities: Skylines stay true to the classic management sim genre. Dawnfolk and Frostpunk 2 include survival elements. And Against the Storm combines roguelike mechanics.

Let Them Trade is a more relaxed take on the genre, cozier and more board game-like in tone and execution. It offers a gentler approach rather than putting you in harsh survival situations or overloading you with micromanagement.

Let Them Trade challenges players to build a prosperous kingdom by managing a network of cities that trade resources. The game stands out for its unique approach to economics and a relaxed atmosphere that allows players to enjoy the process without unnecessary pressure.

Let Them Trade transports players to a charming world styled like a wooden board game, where you play the role of a manager acting on behalf of the king. Your task is to create a network of thriving cities that mine resources, trade with each other, and develop the economy.

The game does not aim for epic conflicts or intricate intrigues, but focuses on the daily life of cities. You watch as your settlements grow, your residents become richer, and trade routes come to life. However, the world is not without threats: bandits attracted by the wealth of your cities force you to defend your possessions.

Gameplay is focused on building an economy and developing cities. You establish settlements in resource-rich areas and watch them manage their needs on their own. Cities automatically trade resources and goods, forming complex supply chains. Your role is to guide this process by strategically placing cities, upgrading your castle, and protecting the economy from external threats. The game allows you to experiment with economic decisions, whether it’s stockpiling resources for hard times or investing in production.

The project’s special feature is the autonomy of cities, which decide for themselves what to buy and sell based on their budgets and needs. The player receives taxes from trade, and their size depends on the well-being and happiness of the residents. The richer the city, the more generously it shares its income, but wealth attracts bandits, which requires hiring knights for protection.

Let Them Trade offers two modes: a sandbox for free creativity and a campaign with different scenarios where the player is given specific tasks. This allows you to adapt the gameplay to different styles: whether you want to slowly build your kingdom or solve economic puzzles.

Let Them Trade is a great addition to your library if you’re looking for a city-building sim that lets you relax, try new things, and have fun. It succeeds in offering a calm and enjoyable city-building experience. Its flexible mechanics and helpful tutorials make it especially appealing to newcomers.