If you are looking for a nostalgic simulation game that lets you take control of a construction and demolition company, you might want to check out Demolish & Build Classic.
This game is a port of the 2016 PC game Demolish & Build Company 2017, which was developed by Demolish Games S.A. and published by Ultimate Games.
In this game, you can buy machines, modify their equipment, use specialized hand tools, destroy various structures, invest in your own construction projects, earn rental profits, manage employees, and repair broken equipment.
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Gameplay of Demolish & Build Classic
The gameplay of Demolish & Build Classic is divided into two main aspects: demolition and building. You start with limited funds, earn more by completing missions, and unlock equipment. Additionally, you can invest in properties for passive income or hire workers.
Demolition is the game’s highlight, offering various tools and vehicles for satisfying destruction. There are many tools you can use to demolish a building, including a bulldozer, a crane, a jackhammer, a chainsaw, and not to mention a wrecking ball.
Physics aren’t realistic but they are enjoyable enough to make you feel powerful and destructive. Although, sometimes the game lacks tutorials or hints for tool and machine usage.
On the flip side, when it comes to construction missions, player creativity and freedom take a backseat. Moreover, the maps have need of diversity and intricate details. Most notably, the steering controls prove to be clunky, constituting a major source of frustration within the game.
Graphics and Audio of Demolish & Build Classic
Demolish & Build Classic’s graphics and audio reflect its 2016 origin. The retro style, akin to early simulators, cannot be compared to more modern games.
The game incorporates a day-night cycle to enhance immersion. In fact, performing missions during the night can prove challenging due to reduced visibility in low light conditions.
Unfortunately, the game lacks customization options for graphics settings, leaving players unable to tweak elements like resolution or brightness.
Ambient music falls short, although the radio feature does offers a selection of rock and techno genres.
Storyline and Characters of Demolish & Build Classic
The game’s storyline and characters serve as background rather than central elements. There are no cutscenes, dialogues, or plot-affecting choices.
The narrative revolves around a struggling construction company owner, with the player controlling this unnamed character. The sole notable character is the advisor, who only guides the player with missions and tips.
The absence of an antagonist or overarching conflict places the player in a unique position, where their primary focus is on achieving personal financial goals. Moreover, the game does not adhere to traditional endings or rolling credits, granting players the freedom to continue their journey indefinitely even after completing missions.
In Demolish & Build Classic, narrative and character depth take a backseat to gameplay mechanics and sandbox elements. The emphasis lies on experimenting with various tools and machinery.
Technical Performance of Demolish & Build Classic
Demolish & Build Classic’s technical performance is a notable weak point. Low and erratic frame rates lead to choppy visuals, impacting controls and physics.
Loading screens interrupt gameplay frequently, affecting the overall experience. Additionally, there’s no autosave, requiring manual saving.
Pros and Cons of Demolish & Build Classic
Pros
- Nostalgic retro style attracts simulator genre fans.
- Enjoy demolition with various tools and machines.
- Freedom to explore missions beyond the main storyline.
- Radio feature adds mood and atmosphere while driving.
- The progression system lets the player unlock new equipment, properties, and missions, which can motivate the player to keep playing.
Cons
- Lack of sensitivity adjustment and a clunky driving gameplay.
- The building mechanics are not as cool as demolishing.
- Repetitive gameplay becomes frustrating over time.
Recommendation
I didn’t get very attached to Demolish & Build Classic, but I did enjoy demolishing structures. However, the controls were frustrating and the missions were monotonous.
Despite these flaws, I believe the game can be a valuable learning experience for the developers. It can help them identify what worked and what didn’t in the first game, so they can make the next one even better.
I think that Demolish & Build 3 will have more features, options, and improvements that will make it a great simulation game. I am looking forward to seeing what Demolish Games S.A. will do with their next project.
Ratings and Conclusion
I’d rate Demolish & Build Classic [6/10]. It’s a nostalgic port of the 2016 PC game, offering some value for simulator fans.
Recommended for simulator enthusiasts, curious about demolition, or seeking straightforward gameplay.
Demolish & Build Classic is a flawed but enjoyable simulation game that offers a unique and satisfying demolition experience.
