PREVIEW / LIBRITOPIA: Library Simulation Game (PC)

The simulation genre is notorious for its unpredictability. Sure, you could argue that any gaming genre has its ups and downs, but with sims, the contrast is particularly stark. Over the years, I’ve stumbled across some exceptional titles. Then again, there have been those claiming to be sims that are so poorly executed they somehow still manage to fly under the radar. I’ve often found myself handing out my lowest review scores within this genre. Today, I’m diving into LIBRITOPIA: Librarian Simulator on PC. While it has its moments, there are several aspects that could use a bit more polish. And just to clarify, I’m aware this is an Early Access game, so my evaluation relates to its current stage of development rather than its final version.

In LIBRITOPIA: Librarian Simulator, you get the chance to design and manage your very own library. The idea conjures up images of cozy corners where book lovers can escape their fast-paced lives. Libraries – with their charm and endless knowledge – are either sanctuaries for dedicated students or perfect hideaways for anyone wanting to get lost in a good read. That’s the spirit I was hoping to capture here: a whimsical, relaxing experience that’s still engrossing. However, what I found was a fast-paced dash game, which wasn’t quite what I anticipated.

The game begins by allowing players to meet the demands of library-goers without incurring too many complaints. Fail to satisfy too many customers in a day, and it’s game over. If this was marketed as a dash game, I’d likely be more forgiving. But by branding it as a sim, all the intricate details you’d expect from a simulation feel missing. Stress is equated with the role of a librarian, and while there’s some truth to that, it’s not the vibe most players are searching for.

You’re given a chance to expand and rearrange your library before the bustling day commences, collecting books that were returned the previous evening. Things seemed fine when I started my routine from the computer, but the moment hordes of book enthusiasts swarmed in, eager to devour literature, things took an unexpected turn.

Tackling these initial stages, I found the patrons to be surprisingly unaware. Faced with an inventory of just a dozen books, they’d still need guidance to locate something that’s right under their noses. In larger libraries, or when faced with numerous unshelved books, confusion might be expected. Still, when you only have two measly shelves and even the book covers are visible, it doesn’t make much sense. This situation improves further into the game, but it seems like an oversight rather than intentional design.

As your collection grows, books end up shelved with only spines showing. With just the title visible, patrons sometimes request by author or genre, which requires either a commendable memory or frequent visits to the check-in desk. This smart system adds layers but also tests the patience of waiting customers. Labeling shelves could help, but only marginally, as management options are limited.

Inside LIBRITOPIA, zones like check-in and check-out desks have separate computer systems, adding to the complexity. Surely, a single, integrated system would be more realistic. The designated waiting area adds a nice touch, but in reality, simplifying the process from the start would have been better before adding complexities as game progression.

Checking a book out involves hopping back and forth from the main computer to the shelves. With a consistent flow of customers, the process slows when ideally, a streamlined interface showing pertinent book details would suffice.

At the check-in desk, you’re faced with a matching game – the buttons can be unresponsive, leading to time lost rather than gained. An efficient dash game relies on smooth, quick interactions, and this mechanic needs refining.

The core loop of LIBRITOPIA involves acquiring books, serving patrons, and retrieving borrowed titles. Yet, simplicity isn’t always straightforward here. Awkward mechanics like patrons requesting books never before introduced bring early frustration; when faulty requests potentially cost lives, it’s less than fair.

Visually, LIBRITOPIA: Librarian Simulator feels dated, as if it traveled from the early 2000s. There might be resource limitations accounting for its look, but it doesn’t offer much appeal. Sounds are sparse and inconsistent, with mismatched audio adding to the disbelief. Fortunately, navigation controls are intuitive and reliable.

Despite my critiques, fans of dash games might find enjoyment in LIBRITOPIA: Librarian Simulator’s mechanics. While it won’t make headlines as a top-tier game, its replayability might attract a dedicated fanbase. A suggestion: the “Sim” label could mislead, as this title aligns more closely with the Dash genre in its current state. Though it navigates mediocrity right now, enhancements are possibly on the way, given its Early Access status.

As LIBRITOPIA continues to evolve, updates may transform the experience noticeably in the coming months. While it’s not costly, experimenting with the game’s growth won’t break the bank.

Note: This preview is based on an Early Access version of the game, courtesy of the publisher.