Ostriv

Ostriv is a city-planning simulator about an 18th-century settlement, where each family lives on its own farm. The player allocates plots, plans roads and provides residents with work, and they themselves get food and build houses. The economy is built on chains: forest turns into logs, grain into flour, flour into bread. Winters are harsh, so supplies are made in advance, otherwise the settlement will begin to starve. In addition to construction, there is trade, markets and taxes on which development depends. The design is restrained, but the landscapes and old life are conveyed with attention to detail. The game has been developing for a long time in early access, and this is noticeable in the number of settings. Construction proceeds in stages, and craftsmen are needed for complex work, so artisans have to be trained. Markets connect the settlement with its neighbors, and the sale of surplus brings money for development. Climate and crop yields vary between maps, so plans are based on the setting. The caretaker can interfere in the affairs of residents, but this should not be abused. Residents leave if they are not provided with work for a long time, so it is worth maintaining a balance of employment. Building houses requires materials, and materials must be produced and delivered. The change of seasons changes the tasks: they sow in the spring, harvest in the fall, and repair in the winter. Taxes and trade bring in funds, but require warehouses. In addition to construction, there is trade with neighbors, and a crossing can be established across the river. In winter the roads get covered up, so supplies are important. For those who like quiet construction without haste, the project is suitable.