Chocolate Factory Simulator is a game developed by Games Incubator and published in collaboration with PlayWay S.A. Released on Steam on January 7, 2025, it presents itself as a management simulation game that promises to immerse players in the role of an innovative chocolatier within a steampunk setting.
With such premises, the game has drawn the attention of many genre enthusiasts, but not all expectations have been met.
An Intriguing but Underexplored Setting
One of the most captivating aspects of Chocolate Factory Simulator is undoubtedly its steampunk aesthetic. Copper pipes, gears, vintage machinery, and retro-industrial details create a unique atmosphere that initially captures the player’s attention. The sensation of being in a laboratory from the past is certainly one of the game’s strengths, thanks to a well-crafted and charming visual design.
However, this atmosphere soon proves to be limited. The entire game world is confined to your factory, visible only from a balcony view. It is not possible to explore or interact with the surrounding environment, reducing the sense of immersion. The lack of a vibrant world outside the factory gives the game an almost claustrophobic feeling, curbing the player’s curiosity and long-term interest.
Gameplay: A Promising Start That Loses Steam
The initial hours of Chocolate Factory Simulator manage to entertain with the idea of building and optimizing a chocolate factory. However, the initial enthusiasm quickly clashes with gameplay that fails to evolve sufficiently. In a management game like Chocolate Factory Simulator, one would expect a smooth progression toward automation and the creation of efficient systems. However, the process remains manual and cumbersome even after several hours of gameplay.
The core gameplay revolves around receiving and fulfilling chocolate orders. While detailed, the procedure becomes monotonous over time:
- Answering a phone to receive orders.
- Manually weighing ingredients.
- Cooking the mixture at precise temperatures.
- Carefully stirring the mix.
- Pouring the product into molds.
- Manually transporting the finished chocolate to another machine for packaging.
- Shipping the product via a balloon that flies out the window.
Each stage requires constant physical movement and direct control, including keeping the furnace active by adding coal. This system in Chocolate Factory Simulator feels repetitive and, rather than rewarding players for achieving efficiency, often gives the impression of laborious and unintuitive work.
Lack of Automation and Strategy
One of the most glaring shortcomings of Chocolate Factory Simulator is the absence of automation. Even after several hours, all operations must be performed manually, with no ability to delegate or optimize processes. This limits the satisfaction typical of management games, where progressive automation is a key component.
Another limitation is the simplicity of the recipe and purchasing system, entirely managed through a book. There is no farming or ingredient collection system, eliminating one of the most beloved dynamics in management games. The lack of variety and depth in the gameplay mechanics makes the experience in Chocolate Factory Simulator flat and repetitive, offering little incentive to keep playing in the long term.
Untapped Potential
Despite its flaws, Chocolate Factory Simulator has potential. The idea of combining a steampunk setting with a chocolate factory is intriguing and original, and the game’s aesthetics are certainly its strong point. However, design choices significantly hinder enjoyment and immersion. With more attention to progression, variety, and the integration of automation mechanics, Chocolate Factory Simulator could have been much more engaging.
Conclusion
Chocolate Factory Simulator is a title that catches the eye with its polished aesthetics but fails to maintain the player’s interest due to monotonous and underdeveloped gameplay. If you’re a fan of simulation games and looking for a relaxing, visually pleasing experience, Chocolate Factory Simulator might be worth trying. However, those seeking management depth and rewarding progression are likely to be disappointed. With some updates and improvements, Chocolate Factory Simulator could become much more compelling, but as it stands, it feels more like a missed opportunity than a memorable game.
Chocolate Factory Simulator
PRO
- Well-crafted aesthetics: The steampunk setting is beautifully designed, with captivating visual details.
- Original idea: The combination of a chocolate factory and steampunk style is intriguing and unique.
- Relaxing experience: It can be enjoyable for those looking for a game with a slower pace.
CON
- Repetitive gameplay: The lack of automation and repetitive actions make the game feel monotonous.
- Shallow management: There’s a lack of significant progression or advanced strategic mechanics.
- Limited interaction: There’s no option to explore or interact with the environment outside the factory.
5.5/10
