Gazillionaire (Windows 3.x)

One of the most entertaining Monopoly-style games ever made, Gazillionaire is a great multiplayer galactic trading game that combines solid gameplay with plenty of humor, replete with bizarre alien commodities subject to a wicked supply/demand curve.

Gazillionaire is a game for 1-6 competitors (any of whom can be human, but only hot-seat play is supported) seeking to build an interplanetary shipping empire in a fictitious solar system. You have to maximize your profits and upgrade the speed and size of your ship fast enough to be able to cut your opponents off at the dock and leave them languishing with worthless cargo and a severe cash flow disadvantage. Each planetary market is so supply-driven that the owners of fast ships can manipulate commodities by arriving ahead of their opponents and dumping cargo. Because of this, the game becomes more than just an economic strategy game, but a tense multiplayer "space race" as well.

Gazillionaire is incredibly addictive-- after every turn is finished, you just have to take the next one to see how your shares are doing, or if you're gonna get that good market price. Yet another feature is the 'Planet Special' which relates to the type of planet you're going to. For example, if you travel to Nosh "The Gas Planet of Kukubia", you will normally find a great deal on the price of fuel, instead of paying retail. At Pyke, you could get an engine upgrade, on Frac you can visit your insurance company and ask for a drop in your premium. This could all backfire on you, but that's where you have to consider the risk. There are so many factors to consider on each turn and so many fun features, you will find yourself investigating every option before leaving the planet, sitting there until sunrise without ever realizing it.

The game is definitely a must-play for all fans of "light" business strategy games. But be warned-- it's so addictive that it's hazardous to your health... don't say I didn't warn you :)

Review By HOTUD