Timeflow – Life Sim

Timeflow – Life Sim is an economic simulator that works as a money management trainer. The player starts with small savings and gradually learns to distribute income. The mechanics are reminiscent of a board game about moving in a circle: each turn brings events, expenses and opportunities. Besides work, there are investments, education, health and relationships, all of which affect the budget. Some decisions have to be made at random, but the consequences are visible quickly. The design is simple, but the interface is detailed: you can see where each amount goes. The duration depends on how successfully the player builds a financial plan. You can set goals yourself: save up for housing, deal with debts, or invest money in a business. Health and mood affect income, so you also have to think about yourself. Random events like repairs or illness break plans, and this is part of the plan. The results are summed up based on several indicators, and not just the amount in the account. Some events depend on chance, so even a good plan may not work. Investments can be risky, so diversification helps. The final result depends on a set of values, not just money. The game is short, so it won't be difficult to try different strategies. In addition to work, there are investments, studies and health care. Turn events change plans. The outcome depends on the set of values. The game is short, so it's easy to try. For those players who want to understand their spending in a playful way, the project is interesting.