Summary

Release Year: 2016
Genres: Indie, Simulator, Strategy
Platforms: iOS, Linux, Mac, Nintendo Switch, PC (Microsoft Windows)
Developers: Gamious
Publishers: Playdigious

Turmoil: Striking It Rich in the 19th Century Oil Rush

Introduction

Turmoil is a captivating simulation game that transports you to the heart of the 19th century oil rush in North America. As a budding oil entrepreneur, you’ll embark on a thrilling journey to dig up and sell oil, expand your town, and ultimately become the new mayor. With its immersive gameplay, charming visuals, and engaging story, Turmoil offers a unique and unforgettable gaming experience.

Gameplay

At the core of Turmoil lies a meticulously crafted simulation gameplay loop that’s both intuitive and deeply satisfying. You’ll start off with a small plot of land and a basic set of tools. As you dig for oil, you’ll earn money that can be invested in upgrading your equipment, purchasing new land, and expanding your town.

The oil-drilling process is a central aspect of Turmoil. You’ll need to carefully survey your land to identify potential oil deposits, and then strategically place your derricks to maximize your output. As you drill deeper, you’ll encounter various challenges, such as rock formations and water seeping into your wells. To overcome these obstacles, you’ll need to invest in research and development to unlock new technologies and improve your drilling efficiency.

In addition to oil drilling, you’ll also play an active role in the growth and development of your town. As you earn money, you can invest in a variety of buildings and upgrades that will benefit both you and your fellow townsfolk. These include houses, schools, churches, and even a stock exchange where you can buy and sell shares in your company.

Story

Turmoil’s story mode adds an extra layer of depth and engagement to the gameplay. You’ll follow the journey of two oil entrepreneurs, Edwin and William, as they navigate the ups and downs of the oil rush. Along the way, you’ll encounter a cast of colorful characters, each with their own motivations and goals.

The story mode also introduces a unique twist to the gameplay. In addition to managing your oil company, you’ll also be competing against rival entrepreneurs for land, resources, and market share. This adds an element of strategy and competition to the game, as you’ll need to carefully plan your moves to outmaneuver your opponents and emerge as the dominant oil baron.

Visuals and Sound

Turmoil’s charming visuals are a perfect match for its lighthearted and engaging gameplay. The game’s world is rendered in a vibrant and colorful pixel art style, with detailed environments and expressive character animations. The soundtrack is equally impressive, featuring a mix of catchy melodies and ambient sound effects that create a truly immersive atmosphere.

Conclusion

Whether you’re a fan of simulation games, strategy games, or simply engaging and well-crafted indie experiences, Turmoil is a game that deserves your attention. With its immersive gameplay, charming visuals, and engaging story, Turmoil offers a unique and unforgettable gaming experience that will keep you hooked for hours on end. So grab your pickaxe and get ready to strike it rich in the 19th century oil rush!

Review Score

8/10

Developer: Gamious

Turmoil (2016)