Veteran wargamer M. Evan Brooks said it all in his synopsis of the game:
"The 500th Anniversary of Columbus was PIC (politically incorrect). The movies, televisions, books quickly became major "busts". This game was no different -- slow, dull, user unfriendly. If this showed Columbus in a positive light, it is a wonder he ever secured the wherewithal to head an expedition."
Enough (dis)recommendation, methinks [EG]. Too bad the engine used in Merchant Colony was only marginally improved for this utterly boring game. Go play Sid Meier's Colonization for Windows instead if you're a fan of the period.
Review By HOTUD
English 
Comments and reviews
Pretty disappointing game
Try playing the Atari ST version if you're having trouble with ships loading forever.
To load trader ships: The game must be run at the "fast" setting
This game download seems more glitchy than the original. Anyone know how to solve any of these?
-Trader ships are "loading" forever but never actually load up and leave port to trade
-Other countries fail quickly, making it a very short game and easy to win, even on harder levels
No comment nor review for this game at the moment.