Search for games

Type three or more characters to start searching

Links

Amazon

Twitch

MONSTER

Tropico 6

Name: Comprehensive Review and Analysis of Tropico 6
Item: Tropico 6
Author: MonsterCritic Editorial Team

2019

GenresAdventure, Simulation, Top-Down Perspective, Strategy, Single Player, Multiplayer

AvailableMar 29, 2019

PlatformPC, Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, Xbox One

DeveloperLimbic Entertainment

Overview

El Presidente is back! Prove yourself once again as a feared dictator or peace-loving statesman on the island state of Tropico and shape the fate of your very own banana republic through four distinctive eras.

Elsewhere

6.8

Game analysis

Monster Scorecard

EXPAND ALL

Story and Narrative

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tropico 6 delivers a humorous and satirical take on dictatorship with engaging gameplay that critics largely appreciate. Players enjoy the unique experience of ruling as El Presidente, with varied missions across historical eras adding depth. However, many reviewers criticize its disjointed narrative, repetitive humor, and lack of cohesive storytelling, suggesting the game could benefit from stronger political commentary. While it's entertaining, the mixed feedback indicates a desire for a more unified narrative experience.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR STORY

Story Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

55%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

44%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the story and narrative.

The opinions surrounding the story of Tropico 6 reflect a blend of humor, satire, and engaging gameplay mechanics that many critics appreciate. Reviewers like XboxAddict and GameWatcher highlight the unique narrative experience that comes from playing as El Presidente, with missions and cutscenes enhancing player engagement. Critics such as God is a Geek and Digitally Downloaded commend the game's satirical take on dictatorship, noting that it provides a relevant commentary on political exploitation with a humorous twist. The structure of the game, featuring varied missions across different historical eras, offers players a rich tapestry of scenarios to navigate, as noted by critics like New Game Network and Gamer.no, who appreciate the thematic depth and complexity of managing a tropical nation. However, the criticisms of Tropico 6 are equally pronounced, with several reviewers pointing out the lack of a cohesive narrative throughout the campaign. Wccftech and Multiplayer.it argue that the game feels disjointed, with missions lacking a strong narrative thread, which can detract from the overall experience. Critics like Areajugones and KeenGamer express disappointment in the repetitive nature of the humor and the reliance on clichés, suggesting that the game could benefit from deeper political commentary. Additionally, PC Invasion and GamingTrend mention that the shift away from a linear campaign to standalone missions may confuse new players and dilute the narrative flow. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests that while Tropico 6 offers an entertaining and humorous take on the challenges of dictatorship, it struggles with narrative cohesion and depth. Many reviewers appreciate the engaging gameplay and the satirical elements, as seen in the opinions of GameCrate and Strategy Gamer, but they also highlight significant shortcomings in storytelling and mission design. The mixed feedback indicates that while the game succeeds in providing a fun and politically charged experience, it may leave players wanting a more unified and compelling narrative structure.

TL;DR

story and narrative

Gameplay Mechanics

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tropico 6 impresses with its engaging city-building and political simulation, praised for its innovative archipelago system and solid tutorials. However, critics point out issues like unclear mechanics, tedious micromanagement, and a clunky interface that can overwhelm new players. While the game retains the charm of its predecessors, its pacing and complexity may hinder enjoyment, creating mixed reviews. Overall, it’s a satisfying blend of strategy and humor, but not without its flaws.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR GAMEPLAY

Gameplay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

67%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

33%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the gameplay mechanics.

The gameplay of Tropico 6 has garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting its engaging blend of city-building and political simulation. Reviewers such as PCGamesN and Gamer.no appreciate the game’s ability to combine resource management with political maneuvering, allowing players to navigate the complexities of running a tropical island nation. The introduction of new features like the archipelago system, as noted by both Jeuxvideo.com and PlayStation Universe, adds depth to the gameplay, enabling players to manage multiple islands and engage in strategic planning. Critics also commend the well-structured tutorials and campaign missions, which help guide players through the intricacies of the game, as mentioned by XboxAddict and Pure Nintendo. However, several reviewers pointed out notable drawbacks that can detract from the overall experience. InsideGamer.nl and Game Revolution highlighted issues with unclear mechanics and overwhelming micromanagement, which can make the gameplay feel tedious at times. Critics like Nintenderos and Softpedia expressed concerns over the user interface and controls, suggesting that newcomers may find the game challenging to navigate. Additionally, some reviewers, including Game Debate and IGN, criticized the pacing and complexity of the economic simulation, which can complicate the enjoyment of the game for some players. The lack of quality-of-life improvements and the feeling of being overly guided, as noted by PCGamesN, further contribute to the mixed sentiments regarding gameplay. Overall, the consensus among critics is that while Tropico 6 offers a rich and multifaceted gameplay experience, it is not without its flaws. The game successfully retains the core mechanics of its predecessors while introducing innovative elements that enhance the simulation experience, as highlighted by CGMagazine and Meristation. However, the issues related to micromanagement, interface design, and pacing may hinder the experience for some players, leading to a divide in how the game is perceived. Despite these criticisms, many reviewers agree that the game provides a satisfying blend of strategy, management, and humor, making it a worthwhile addition to the Tropico franchise.

TL;DR

gameplay mechanics

Graphics and Visual Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tropico 6 dazzles on PC with vibrant graphics and immersive detail, thanks to Unreal Engine 4, earning praise for its colorful Caribbean setting. However, the Nintendo Switch version falters with grainy visuals and performance issues, disappointing critics who note a stark decline in quality. While the game thrives in its visual design on some platforms, the Switch experience leaves much to be desired, highlighting a significant disparity in graphical execution.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VISUALS

Visual Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

31%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

59%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

10%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the graphics and visual design.

The graphics and visual design of Tropico 6 have received a mix of praise, particularly for their vibrant and colorful representation of a tropical setting. Critics like PCGamesN and PC Gamer highlight the visually appealing Caribbean environment, noting that it enhances the gameplay experience. The use of Unreal Engine 4 has been commended for contributing to a more detailed and immersive world, with Windows Central and PSX Extreme specifically mentioning the excellent texture quality and beautiful islands. Additionally, the game’s art style has been described as fantastic, blending humor with serious themes, as noted by Attack of the Fanboy. The overall aesthetic, characterized by bright colors and dynamic environments, has been appreciated by several reviewers, including Cognconnected and 3DJuegos, who emphasize the improvements made over its predecessor. However, the criticisms regarding the graphics are quite pronounced, especially concerning the Nintendo Switch version of the game. Reviewers such as Multiplayer.it and Starbit express disappointment in the reduced resolution and lack of detail, with visuals appearing grainy and washed-out. The handheld mode particularly suffers from resolution issues, making it hard to appreciate the game’s artistic merits. Critics like Gaming Age and Nintendo Life echo these sentiments, pointing out that the graphics feel dated and lack the vibrancy expected from a game set in a tropical paradise. Moreover, issues like jagged textures and performance drops, especially during zoomed-in gameplay, have been noted by multiple reviewers, including God is a Geek and Pure Nintendo, further detracting from the visual experience. The overall consensus among critics indicates a clear divide in the visual experience of Tropico 6 depending on the platform. While the PC version has generally received accolades for its vibrant graphics and improved detail, the Nintendo Switch version has faced significant backlash for its graphical shortcomings, leading to a less favorable reception. Critics like Player 2 acknowledge that while the graphical downgrade on the Switch does not detract from the gameplay experience, it is still a noticeable limitation. The mixed reviews suggest that while Tropico 6 excels in creating a colorful and engaging world, the execution varies greatly across platforms, leaving some players wanting a more polished visual experience, particularly on handheld devices.

TL;DR

graphics and visual design

Music and Sound Design

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tropico 6 features a catchy, Caribbean-inspired soundtrack and commendable voice acting that enhance the gameplay. Critics praise the music for its vibrant atmosphere but note it can become repetitive and monotonous over time, with some suggesting players might prefer to turn it off. Overall, while the sound design adds to the game's charm, its limited variety could hinder long-term enjoyment.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR SOUND DESIGN

Sound Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

45%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

53%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the music and sound design.

The sound design and music of Tropico 6 have garnered a generally positive reception from critics, highlighting the game's effective use of Caribbean-inspired melodies and engaging soundtracks. Reviewers like PlayStation Country and MondoXbox praised the music as catchy and memorable, effectively enhancing the tropical setting and overall gameplay experience. Critics from Generación Xbox and 3DJuegos noted that the soundtrack, featuring lively tropical rhythms, fits well with the game's theme and adds to the enjoyment. Additionally, the voice acting received commendations from multiple sources, including God is a Geek and Strategy Gamer, who highlighted the quality of character portrayals, particularly the humorous delivery from characters like Penultimo. However, several critics pointed out notable drawbacks regarding the music and sound design. A common criticism is the repetitiveness of the soundtrack, with reviewers such as Push Square and IGN noting that while the music is enjoyable, it can become monotonous over extended play sessions. Critics like BaziCenter and Shacknews echoed this sentiment, mentioning that the limited variety in tracks may detract from the immersive experience. Furthermore, some reviewers, including Impulsegamer and KeenGamer, expressed that the default game music could become irritating, suggesting that players might prefer to turn it off in favor of ambient sounds or other music. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Tropico 6 offers a vibrant and enjoyable auditory experience that complements its gameplay, though it is marred by issues of repetitiveness and limited variety. While the catchy tunes and effective sound design contribute positively to the game's atmosphere, the potential for monotony during long play sessions remains a concern. Critics like Digital Chumps and Gameblog.fr encapsulated this balance, acknowledging the fun and immersive qualities of the music while also recognizing the limitations that could impact player enjoyment over time.

TL;DR

music and sound design

Voice Acting

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

The voice acting in Tropico 6 is widely praised for its charm and humor, particularly with standout performances like Penultimo adding depth to the gameplay. Critics note the lively and engaging nature of the voices enhances the game's satirical elements. However, some voices can be annoying, localization needs improvement, and repetitive lines may detract from the experience. Overall, it’s a strong element that contributes positively to the game's appeal, despite a few criticisms.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR VOICE ACTING

Acting Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

58%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

39%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the voice acting.

The voice acting in Tropico 6 has garnered a generally positive reception from critics across various platforms. Many reviewers, such as BaziCenter and CGMagazine, have highlighted the charm and humor brought to the game by the voice performances, particularly praising the character Penultimo for adding a delightful layer to the gameplay experience. Critics from 3DJuegos and God is a Geek also emphasized the quality of the Spanish voice acting, noting its effectiveness in enhancing the game's humor and overall immersion. Additionally, the voice work is described as lively and engaging by COGconnected, which contributes positively to the game's comedic and satirical elements, making the characters feel vibrant and relatable. However, there are some criticisms regarding the voice acting that cannot be overlooked. KeenGamer pointed out that while the voice acting can be fun, it occasionally veers into annoyance, suggesting that some performances may not resonate with all players. Additionally, IGN Spain raised concerns about the quality of the Spanish localization, indicating that it could benefit from improvement. Other critics, such as New Game Network and Screen Rant, noted that some voice lines are repetitive, which can detract from the overall experience, as players may find themselves hearing the same phrases too frequently. Overall, the consensus among critics is that the voice acting in Tropico 6 is a strong element that enhances the game's humor and satirical tone. While there are some valid criticisms regarding repetition and localization quality, the majority of reviewers, including those from Pure Nintendo and Vandal, agree that the voice performances are well-executed and contribute positively to the game's charm. The diverse cast of characters and engaging dialogues create an immersive experience that aligns well with the game's themes, making the voice acting a noteworthy aspect of Tropico 6.

TL;DR

voice acting

Technical Performance

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tropico 6 delivers a mixed technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch shines with user-friendly controls but suffers from severe loading delays and frame rate issues, leading to criticism. Meanwhile, the PC version is generally stable with smooth gameplay but is marred by bugs and glitches. Xbox One shows decent stability yet still faces minor issues. Overall, Switch users face significant struggles, while PC and Xbox players enjoy a better experience—albeit with some hiccups.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR TECHNICAL PERFORMANCE

Tech Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

15%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

63%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

21%

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the technical performance.

In analyzing the technical performance of Tropico 6 across various platforms, it is clear that there are some positives to highlight. On the Nintendo Switch, several critics, including NintendoWorldReport and God is a Geek, noted that the controls are well-implemented, with a user-friendly radial menu. Despite some graphical compromises, the game runs adequately for the most part. On PC, the performance is generally praised, with many reviewers like Windows Central and GameWatcher reporting smooth gameplay and stability, even on moderate hardware. Critics such as BaziCenter and Vandal also noted that the game runs well, with only minor interface issues detracting from the experience. However, the negatives are significant, particularly for the Nintendo Switch. Critics such as Gaming Age and Vooks highlighted long loading times, frame rate drops, and stuttering issues, especially as the game progresses and the island expands. Multiplayer.it echoed this sentiment, stating that the technical performance is disappointing compared to other platforms. On the PC front, while many reviews were positive, there were still notable issues. Game Debate and New Game Network reported crashes, bugs, and visual glitches that hindered gameplay. Even some positive reviews acknowledged minor technical flaws, indicating that while the PC version is generally stable, it is not without its problems. Overall, the consensus among critics suggests a mixed bag of technical performance across platforms. The Nintendo Switch version suffers from significant performance issues, leading to a generally negative reception, as noted by multiple reviewers like 3DJuegos and Player 2. In contrast, while the PC version is often praised for its stability and performance, it is not without its bugs and glitches, as highlighted by critics like Impulsegamer and Games.cz. The Xbox One version appears to be more stable, though it still has its share of minor issues, as mentioned by Generación Xbox and Gaming Age. In summary, Tropico 6 showcases a disparity in technical performance, with the Nintendo Switch struggling significantly compared to the more favorable reception on PC and Xbox platforms.

TL;DR

technical performance

Replay Value

Expand for full analysis

TL;DR

Tropico 6 impresses with high replay value thanks to diverse modes, strategic options, and sandbox play, appealing to management sim fans. However, critics note repetitiveness in faction demands and campaign missions, potential performance issues on the Switch, and a lack of significant innovation that may dampen long-term engagement. Solid for genre enthusiasts, but not universally captivating.

SCORE DISTRIBUTION FOR REPLAY VALUE

Replay Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

51%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

49%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing reviews that specifically scored or critiqued the replay value.

The overall sentiment regarding the replay value of Tropico 6 is largely positive, with many critics highlighting the game's diverse modes and engaging gameplay mechanics. Reviewers such as IGN Spain and Eurogamer Italy emphasize the significant replay value derived from the sandbox mode, varied missions, and multiplayer options, which cater to a wide range of playstyles. Critics like GameSpot and PC Gamer also note the game's ability to provide multiple paths and rewards based on different strategies, enhancing the experience for players who enjoy management sims. Additionally, the presence of random maps and customizable win conditions, as mentioned by GameStar and The Games Machine, further contributes to the game's replayability, making it appealing for both casual and dedicated players. However, several critics point out notable drawbacks that may hinder long-term engagement. For instance, Jeuxvideo.com and Game Informer mention the repetitive nature of faction demands and campaign missions, which can lead to a sense of monotony after extended play. New Game Network and GameWatcher echo this sentiment, suggesting that returning players might find little incentive to replay the game due to familiarity with its mechanics. Additionally, KeenGamer notes that visual and performance issues on the Nintendo Switch may deter some players from fully enjoying the experience, while MGG and DarkStation highlight that the gameplay may feel aimless in sandbox mode compared to the structured campaign. In conclusion, the consensus among critics is that while Tropico 6 offers a wealth of content and replay value through its various modes and strategic options, it is somewhat marred by repetitiveness and a lack of significant innovation from previous entries. Critics like God is a Geek and Gaming Nexus acknowledge the game's depth and potential for engagement, yet they also caution that some players may not find enough variety to sustain their interest over time. Ultimately, Tropico 6 is seen as a solid entry in the series, particularly for fans of the genre, but it may not captivate all players in the long run.

TL;DR

replay value

Overall Verdict

MONSTER

OVERALL SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Monster Score

Positive Reviews (80-100)

46%

Mixed Reviews (50-79)

54%

Negative Reviews (0-49)

Based on analyzing all available reviews that scored and critiqued the game.

In analyzing the overall sentiment surrounding Tropico 6, it's evident that many critics appreciate its engaging gameplay, humor, and strategic depth. Reviewers like Shacknews and GameSpot highlight the game as a highly enjoyable and rewarding city simulator, emphasizing its addictive nature and extensive replayability. Critics from Gaming Age and Meristation commend the structured missions and improved management mechanics, suggesting that the game appeals to both detail-oriented players and those who prefer a broader approach. The vibrant graphics and satirical tone are also noted positively by multiple reviewers, indicating that the game successfully retains the charm of its predecessors while offering a rich content experience. However, Tropico 6 is not without its flaws, as many critics point out significant technical issues and a lack of innovation compared to previous entries. For instance, Jeuxvideo.com and New Game Network mention the game suffers from persistent problems that have plagued earlier titles, with some reviewers like Everyeye.it and PCGamesN expressing concerns about gameplay depth and repetitiveness. The Nintendo Switch version, in particular, receives criticism for performance issues, with God is a Geek and Starbit noting that frame rate drops and graphical shortcomings hinder the overall experience. Additionally, some critics, such as Eurogamer Italy and Multiplayer.it, feel that the game does not offer enough new features to attract newcomers, making it feel more like an expansion than a full sequel. Overall, the consensus among critics is that Tropico 6 is a solid entry in the franchise that successfully delivers an enjoyable experience for fans of the series while also being accessible to newcomers. While it excels in humor, charm, and engaging gameplay, many reviewers agree that it lacks the significant innovations that would elevate it beyond its predecessors. Critics like Digitally Downloaded and Gaming Nexus acknowledge the game’s merits, but they also highlight its shortcomings, suggesting that while it’s a worthy addition to the series, it may not fully satisfy those seeking a groundbreaking experience. Ultimately, Tropico 6 is seen as a fun and engaging simulation game, albeit one that plays it safe by adhering closely to established formulas.

TL;DR

Tropico 6 delivers addictive gameplay, humor, and strategic depth, earning praise for its charm and replayability. Critics commend its structured missions and vibrant graphics but flag persistent technical issues and a lack of innovation. The Switch version faces notable performance problems, and some feel the game merely expands on its predecessors rather than revolutionizes the series. While it’s a solid entry for fans, it may not satisfy those seeking groundbreaking changes. Overall, it’s a fun simulator that plays it safe, sticking closely to familiar formulas.

MONSTER

Reviews

143 reviews found

100

Gaming Age

Xbox One

Oct 10, 2019