Everyone Has To Start Somewhere
As you can imagine, I've played more than my fair share of computer games. One game I had never played, however, was Virtual Villagers. I'm not sure why. I had heard fantastic things about it and I spend more time in front of my computer than I care to admit. But somehow, I just hadn't played it.
So when Virtual Villagers 3: The Secret City came out, I decided to try the series once and for all. I realize the absurdity in starting at the third installment, but I've never been quite right in the head.
So now that I've dabbled in virtual village life, how do I feel? Disappointed. Disappointed in myself for not playing the first two incarnations of what is arguaby one of the greatest casual gaming franchises available.
Virtually Fantastic
Let me preface this review by making two things clear:
- Virtual Villagers 3: The Secret City is an absolutely amazing game that everyone should try at least once.
- There is more depth and content to this game than could possibly be explained in a few measly paragraphs.
A quick summary of the story: the "villagers" are the inhabitant of the island of Isola. Their population is expanding beyond what their village can hold, so a small group of islanders set out to find another area of the island suitable for living. Unfortunately, a brutal storm hits and they find themselves washed up on shore somewhere. Fortunately, they've discovered the ruins of a secret city and the perfect place for a new village.
Your goal is simple: help the villagers live. They need food and shelter just like everybody else. You'll assign different characters different jobs, whether it be gathering food, building structures, researching new technologies, or one of the other available tasks. As each character works, they'll gain skill in that particular profession, making them more effective.
As you research new technologies, your workers will gain valuable skills that will help them with their jobs.
One of the most interesting things about this product is that it operates in real-time. What this means is that even when you aren't playing, your citizens are going about their lives. The next time you fire up the game, things could be different. In fact, things can be disastrous if you leave your villagers alone for too long. This sounds like it could be annoying, but in reality it's just the opposite. It gives you something to look forward to when you're busy and can't get to the game.
Stop Reading and Start Playing
Like I said, everything I talked about in this review is only a fraction of what's available to do in Virtual Villagers. The scope of the game is mind-blowing and while some games will keep you busy for weeks, this one could keep you busy for months. There are so many things that need doing in the village, not to mention all the secrets and mysteries to unravel as you search through the secret city!
