The Dope Game
" Nostalgic adventure simulation with addictive trading and quirky art but clunky UI and RNG frustration "
The Dope Game Review
The Dope Game is a modern reimagining of the classic Drug Wars, appealing especially to players with nostalgia for the 90s text-based trading games. The game offers a simple buy-low-sell-high drug dealing mechanic combined with random events such as police encounters, robberies, and loan shark interactions. Players appreciate its quirky art style, unique humor, and chill soundtrack that complements the gameplay. The developer's active support and frequent updates also add value.
However, many players find the game suffers from excessive RNG, leading to frustrating early game deaths and repetitive gameplay loops. The UI and market system are criticized for awkward design and lack of quality-of-life features, making trading cumbersome. Late-game balancing issues and limited content reduce replayability. Despite these flaws, for its low price point, it remains a fun, casual time-waster with a distinct nostalgic charm and some strategic depth.
Highlights
Players praise the game’s nostalgic connection to the original Drug Wars and its addictive, straightforward gameplay. The unique hand-drawn art style and fitting soundtrack receive positive remarks for enhancing immersion. The game's humor, dialogue, and random events add flavor and unpredictability, keeping players engaged. Developer responsiveness and ongoing updates are also appreciated. The ability to buy weapons, hire crew, and various game modes add layers of strategy and progression.
Criticisms
Common criticisms include frustrating RNG elements that can abruptly end games without warning, particularly early police encounters and random drops. The UI is considered clunky and unintuitive, lacking features like a 'buy max' button or clearer inventory displays. The drug pricing feels unrealistic and inconsistent. Gameplay can become repetitive and easy once strategies are mastered, with limited variation in quests or story. Loading times and mandatory installs for unlocking content detract from the experience. Some players feel the game lacks depth and replayability beyond nostalgia.
Pros
- • Nostalgic remake of classic Drug Wars with modern twists and humor.
- • Unique hand-drawn art style complements the game’s quirky tone.
- • Addictive buy-low-sell-high trading mechanic with strategic depth.
- • Engaging soundtrack that fits the game’s mood well.
- • Random events add unpredictability and challenge to gameplay.
- • Developer is active and responsive with frequent updates.
- • Multiple game modes including endless and hardcore for variety.
Cons
- • Frustrating RNG can cause unfair early game losses without warning.
- • Clunky and awkward UI makes trading and inventory management tedious.
- • Unrealistic and inconsistent drug pricing breaks immersion.
- • Gameplay becomes repetitive and easy after mastering basic strategies.
- • Limited quest variety and story depth reduce long-term engagement.
- • Excessive loading screens and mandatory installs for content unlocks.
- • Random drops of drugs and money can unbalance gameplay unfairly.
Rating Criteria
Screenshots
Frequently Asked Questions
When was The Dope Game released?
The Dope Game was released on May 30, 2016.
Who developed The Dope Game?
The Dope Game was developed by Tenth&Hess Games.
Is The Dope Game available on Mac?
Yes, The Dope Game is available on Mac.
Is The Dope Game available on Linux?
Yes, The Dope Game is available on Linux.
Where can I buy The Dope Game?
You can buy The Dope Game on Steam.
Game Details
To escape the city of Starkham and start your new life, your friend Preston sets up a meeting with the local loanshark, Sweaty Mike. After foolishly borrowing $2,000, you embark on a timed mission to sell as many illicit substances as possible. Based on John E. Dell's 1984 classic game Drugwars.