STONKS-9800: Stock Market Simulator
" Addictive indie simulation with retro style and diverse minigames but simplistic stock trading "
STONKS-9800: Stock Market Simulator Review
STONKS-9800: Stock Market Simulator is a retro-inspired indie game set in 1980s Japan that blends stock trading with life simulation and quirky minigames. Players navigate a stylized stock market, balancing financial decisions with personal well-being, such as managing stress and fatigue. The game’s unique charm lies in its tongue-in-cheek humor, pixelated PC-98 era visuals, and a soundtrack evoking the era's city-pop vibe. Beyond trading, players engage in activities like horse racing, pachinko, poker, and company management, creating a diverse gameplay experience.
While the simulation is intentionally lightweight and sometimes feels random or repetitive, it captures the chaotic spirit of the bubble economy with a playful twist. The developer’s dedication is evident through steady updates and a rich variety of content. STONKS-9800 is not a deep financial simulator but rather a fun, addictive, and stylish game that celebrates the absurdity of capitalism through engaging gameplay and retro aesthetics.
Highlights
Players praise the game's addictive gameplay loop combining stock trading with engaging minigames like poker, pachinko, and fishing.
The authentic retro PC-98 inspired graphics and upbeat city-pop soundtrack create an immersive 1980s Japan atmosphere.
The developer’s passion and continuous updates enhance the experience, offering a charming and humorous take on financial simulation.
The game’s balance between life management and trading adds depth and keeps players entertained.
Criticisms
Some players find the economic simulation too random and the stock market mechanics shallow compared to realistic simulators.
Repetitive side activities and occasional waiting periods early in the game can disrupt pacing and frustrate players.
The randomness of events sometimes wastes player time, and certain features like achievements have bugs on some platforms.
Players seeking a serious, graph-heavy stock market experience may feel disappointed.
Pros
- • Addictive gameplay combining stock trading with diverse minigames and life simulation elements.
- • Authentic retro PC-98 style graphics and interface with pixel art charm.
- • Engaging city-pop inspired soundtrack that perfectly fits the 1980s Japan setting.
- • Developer actively updates the game and follows a clear roadmap.
- • Wide variety of activities beyond trading, including company creation and gambling.
- • Humorous and tongue-in-cheek tone adds personality and fun to the experience.
- • Accessible and easy to pick up for both casual and dedicated players.
Cons
- • Stock market simulation lacks depth and can feel overly random or simplistic.
- • Side activities may become repetitive after extended play sessions.
- • Early game pacing can be slow with forced waiting times.
- • Random events sometimes waste real-world player time and cause frustration.
- • Achievements and some features have bugs, especially on Mac and Steamdeck.
- • Lack of detailed graphs or realistic economic data disappoints simulation purists.
- • Some players find the game confusing without prior stock market knowledge.
Rating Criteria
Simulator of an 80s Japanese stock market businessman. Chill, catch a retro vibe and watch your profits grow in the text-based game STONKS-9800.