Tropico 4

 PC
User Score
7.7

Generally favorable reviews- based on 419 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 274 out of 419
  2. Mixed: 118 out of 419
  3. Negative: 27 out of 419
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  1. shirajzl
    Aug 28, 2011
    10
    This game is just what the fans of the series and the genre in general want and expect. A fun, relaxing game with decent graphics and gameplay complex enough to keep you occupied, but not frustrated. Tropico 3 was nigh on perfect and the developers just built a little bit on that foundation. Some will aruge it's the same old game, but why fix it if it's not broken? A major overhaul oftenThis game is just what the fans of the series and the genre in general want and expect. A fun, relaxing game with decent graphics and gameplay complex enough to keep you occupied, but not frustrated. Tropico 3 was nigh on perfect and the developers just built a little bit on that foundation. Some will aruge it's the same old game, but why fix it if it's not broken? A major overhaul often results in destroying what used to be an entertaining and fulfilling game...If you liked the previous versions of the game, you'll enjoy this one just as much.… Expand
  2. Lugash
    Mar 15, 2013
    10
    Quite simply the best simulation game around. Tropico 4 may not add much new content, but it polishes the *heck* out of the amazing Tropico 3. The Modern Times expansion adds tons of new content. I honestly have no complaints worth mentioning. 10/10
  3. tototototo
    Jan 7, 2012
    8
    Tropico 4 is an easy going and graphically beautiful game, keeping with the series. Most of the beauty is lost, though, if your computer can't handle high settings. The music is in the similar grain to 3 but arguably less tiring(tyhough that could be that I haven't yet played 4 long enough to get sick of the music as with 3)
  4. notizklotz
    Jan 9, 2012
    9
    I played Tropico 1 + 2 and really loved it, I left out Tropico 3 because it had mediocre critics but when Tropico 4 was released this was a clear buy for me. I think this game is fantastic, the missions are diversified and the good old Tropico feeling is back! Personally, I don't care if there are only minor updates to Tropico 3 because I never owned that.
  5. dardalen
    Dec 5, 2011
    8
    I think Tropico is good for what it is. It will never be the supreme strategy, economy builder, but the humor and ideas it does have make it a nice change of pace from many of the empire builder type games out there.
  6. zarg556
    Jul 23, 2012
    10
    OK... I am aware that tons of people hate this game due to the similarities it shares with it's predecessors - mainly because it is pretty much the same game but with a few upgrades. This however, is completely untrue in my opinion...

    Firstly, there are 20 new diverse, unique missions to explore and conquer while gaining the respect of the population of your island. Random events assist    OK... I am aware that tons of people hate this game due to the similarities it shares with it's predecessors - mainly because it is pretty much the same game but with a few upgrades. This however, is completely untrue in my opinion...

    Firstly, there are 20 new diverse, unique missions to explore and conquer while gaining the respect of the population of your island. Random events assist in making the game more interesting, while not being so common to disrupt the fun and immensity of the gameplay. The fun, exciting spokespeople for each nation are hilarious to listen to, each with their own personalities and voices (although at times these stereotypes may be considered slightly racist!).

    The graphics of Tropico 4 are roughly the same as those of Tropico 3, but seem more vivid and alive, making your island feel more real. For me, Tropico 4 runs much more smoothly on the same graphical settings (detail = medium) as Tropico 3. There are many things to do in Tropico 4 including the campaign, challenge mode (where you can create maps and play other people's!), and sandbox mode. Each of these playing styles are fun in their own way, but for me the campaign is the most enjoyable! Lastly, the actual gameplay of constructing and watching over your country is so great and satisfying (especially when you complete a mission!). The menus are greatly improved since Tropico 3, with ease of access in both finding specific buildings and navigating.

    I honestly cannot think of any downfalls to this games besides maybe the fact the missions usually last at least 1-2 hours, but this increases the overall playing time (so you get more for you money, no?).

    Overall, Tropico 4 is most certainly worth purchasing due to it's fun gameplay, exciting characters and endless playing time and fun factor...    … Expand
  7. SamuelB
    Jul 15, 2012
    9
    This is a really fun game. I have never played a Tropico game before and I really love it. I think it's stupid people rate this game so low just because it is similar to the previous one even though they love Tropico 3. I get that they are disappointed but it still remains a fun game.
  8. TheLugano
    Jan 6, 2013
    9
    Very good city builder. You can make many different choices as to from where you want to get your money (food, tourism, mining, industry, etc.), and many different choices as to how you want to treat your people. The graphics are absolutely decent as well. I can't comment on it being the same as Tropico 3 as I haven't played that but it feels like a must have for anyone who likes Sim CityVery good city builder. You can make many different choices as to from where you want to get your money (food, tourism, mining, industry, etc.), and many different choices as to how you want to treat your people. The graphics are absolutely decent as well. I can't comment on it being the same as Tropico 3 as I haven't played that but it feels like a must have for anyone who likes Sim City or the like.… Expand
  9. lzk222
    Jun 20, 2014
    8
    This review contains spoilers, click expand to view. Tropico 4 is a really good game. Not a great game but good enough to keep any one interested in city building, economic management and resource collection engaged for hours at a time. The biggest pros of Tropico 4 are its citizens, its political factions and the detailed economic system created by its developers.

    The complexity of the individual citizens that live on your island is quite impressive. Unlike other similar games such as Sim City or Anno, every citizen in Tropico 4 has a unique name, skill set, political inclination, age, home country, job experience, etc. I love the the richness and detail of this element of the game for it makes the micro level of Tropico 4 realistic and engaging. At the macro level the various political factions that must be navigated and addressed hinge upon the preferences and character of your citizens. The balance of this aspect of the game is well developed. For every action in the game, there is an equal an opposite reaction. This keeps the game fun and challenging, and makes it very goal driven which appeals to players such as myself. Perhaps the most important pro is the elaborate and diverse economic system that undergirds the game as a whole. It is refined and intuitive. If it were not the game would suffer greatly and likely be very frustrating to play. Although it is not as extraordinarily complex as some other virtual economies I have seen, it is intricate and realistic enough to suck you in and make you feel like you are accomplishing something meaningful. The resource diversity is exciting, the supply lines are challenging and the financial calculus that stems from all of this resource management is sensible and addictive.

    As a side note I must also compliment the humor of the game, which is apparently a legacy of the series, the unique premise of the game (which also harkens back to its legacy) and the graphics which are a little corny but detailed enough to make the game feel real. Admittedly, what really makes Tropico 4 a pleasure to play are the little things. E.g. the political quotes that pop up between screens, the ability to customize and control yourself as an avatar presidente within the game or to choose from historical characters towards the same ends; The graffiti that appears on the walls of your buildings or the snakes and tapirs that occasionally wander through your jungles, and the resource pallets that pile up at your industrial sites. All of these things give the game character.

    On the cons side of things I must admit that the same little things that make the game so great are also its main shortcoming. There are little things in Tropico 4 which I find very annoying that could be very easily addressed if the developers cared to do so. For instance, there is no North button which aligns the mini map with the onscreen view. This drives me crazy! I spend the first minute or so of every game just trying to line up my view with the mini map. Very frustrating. Also, many of the menus in the game are simple to the point of being primitive. The build menu is a good case in point. First off, accessing the build menu is somewhat counter intuitive for it only appears when you right-click. Then, once you are in the build menu, navigating to buildings is a total pain because the subsets don't have back buttons. If you click the wrong building subset or are trying to find a new building and don't know where it is then you have to exit and re-enter the menu every time! For those new to the game, such as myself, I wish there was an info box option for certain game features. Again, using buildings as an example, when a mission requests that you construct a certain building there is no hint as to where you can find it in your menu so you have to make lucky guesses and go through the whole process of entering and exiting the build menu as mentioned above. Perhaps I am just nitpicking at this point but I really wish there was a shift button option for certain actions such as late game management with air conditioning or upgrades to mines, ranches or manufacturing buildings. Instead of going to each building individually and upgrading it manually, it would be nice to hit the upgrade once while holding down a hot key so that the same action applies to all.

    Besides the little things, the two main cons of the game in my opinion are the campaign which lacks depth and is somewhat monotonous, and the music which although good in quality becomes very repetitive after a while. This is because it is catchy (seemingly a good thing in real life, but not for a computer game) and because it is on a short loop.

    All in all, although there are a lot of little things that I dislike about Tropico 4 because there is so much right with it as a whole that I have to give a favorable review. I give it an 8/10. Viva El Presidente!    … Expand
  10. ghos7bear
    Jan 14, 2012
    9
    Despite this game being exactly same as Tropico 3 it doesn't make this game worse. All steps forward and improvements that were done, were done for good. Best city building sim up to date. Beware, can be a bit difficult for complete newbies.
  11. Kluge
    Oct 7, 2011
    8
    For the most part, it's a goal-centric version of SimCity set in the Caribbean. The aesthetics and graphical improvements are beautiful. It doesn't have the same performance issues as Tropico 3, nor is the interface as clunky. The series really hasn't evolved since the original Tropico release however, but the improvements have been immense. For anyone who played SimCity Societies and wasFor the most part, it's a goal-centric version of SimCity set in the Caribbean. The aesthetics and graphical improvements are beautiful. It doesn't have the same performance issues as Tropico 3, nor is the interface as clunky. The series really hasn't evolved since the original Tropico release however, but the improvements have been immense. For anyone who played SimCity Societies and was justifiably outraged at the terrible gameplay, I think Tropico 4 is a great place to pick up after SimCity 4. The game is very polished, level design thoughtful, music enjoyable, appropriately absurd (while still encouraging some thought with fantastic quotes), and has fairly balanced mechanics. After essentially using the same formula for decade, I wouldn't expect any less. Managing building placement is particularly enjoyable, as efficiency can be dramatically reduced if you build too many intersections on your road or try to have a massive hub of activity in the center of the island. Producing an island which efficiently imports, exports, and shuffles around resources feels very rewarding. The only major complaint I have is the game's too easy. It's very time-consuming to complete missions, but generally never easy to fail at. You also don't often have to be at the computer after you've planned a huge list of building projects except to choose how to handle random events. The mechanics require some thought, but after you've experimented for a couple hours, it's difficult to continue improving strategy. There's also no end-game content I found enjoyable, which seems strange for a city management simulator.… Expand
  12. Yazah
    Sep 2, 2011
    8
    This game is much like Tropico 3, but with a few minor improvements. If you loved #3, you'll love #4 even more. They stayed very loyal to the original concept and added a few improvements and additional options, but in some ways it seems like they could have done a lot more and so it feel more like a really good expansion rather than a full-blooded sequel.
  13. Bosmoq
    Sep 2, 2011
    8
    There is some controversy over the quality of this title. Some enjoy the changes that have been made, and others wish there had been more. I'm going to lay out how I feel about some of the hot issues.

    Graphics: The graphics on this edition of Tropico are very similar to Tropico 3. If anything, I'd say the graphics are about the same, but they're optimized. The visuals are cleaner, and    There is some controversy over the quality of this title. Some enjoy the changes that have been made, and others wish there had been more. I'm going to lay out how I feel about some of the hot issues.

    Graphics:
    The graphics on this edition of Tropico are very similar to Tropico 3. If anything, I'd say the graphics are about the same, but they're optimized. The visuals are cleaner, and don't lag like they did in three. Most buildings got a new texture or two as well, even though buildings like tenements and apartments are still lackluster.

    Gameplay:
    There are new buildings with unique abilities, more ways to build your economy, and better defined consequences for your actions. New npc's will issue the will of their faction and will let you know how they will react if you decide to do one thing over the other. Buildings like the Academy of Science can clone you in case of a lethal incident, and weather stations can protect you from natural disasters. Yet despite the changes, it still feels like Tropico 3, and a major complaint many people share is that this game feels like Tropico 3.5. The game certainly does feel more fleshed out, and I wouldn't go so far as to call it Tropico 3.5, but it still feels like they could have done more. Sure crime is more visible, but it still feels as invisible as pollution. Having the npc criminals run around and actually rob someone would have been a nice touch, for example. It's the little things that Tropico 4 is still lacking.    … Expand
  14. Quasi
    Sep 3, 2011
    10
    Tropico 3 was good. This is even better. Even if there's little improvement since Tropico 3, it's not a reason to give this game a bad rating. There are a few new aspects to the game, which make it even more enjoyable to me. I will recommend this game to everyone who asks about it.
  15. gizm0steve
    Oct 5, 2011
    9
    This is an incremental sequel in the same vein of Civilization V and Sims 3. It adds some buildings, a little touch of graphics improvement, some gameplay additions and some new voice acting. People new to Tropico are encouraged to get #4 but if you've burned out on #3 you won't regret skipping this. It really stands on its own as a solid city simulator - it just has not innovated orThis is an incremental sequel in the same vein of Civilization V and Sims 3. It adds some buildings, a little touch of graphics improvement, some gameplay additions and some new voice acting. People new to Tropico are encouraged to get #4 but if you've burned out on #3 you won't regret skipping this. It really stands on its own as a solid city simulator - it just has not innovated or reinvented itself enough to get a perfect score.… Expand
  16. giskard
    Sep 2, 2011
    8
    There is no doubt that for the first couple of hours this game does look like Tropico 3, but once the game gets going you start to see a whole new level to the game that just blows away Tropico 3. Though do miss certain radio DJs, the new features more than make up for it. For example the new disasters are features you will definitely want to leave turned on, they are just so cool. TheThere is no doubt that for the first couple of hours this game does look like Tropico 3, but once the game gets going you start to see a whole new level to the game that just blows away Tropico 3. Though do miss certain radio DJs, the new features more than make up for it. For example the new disasters are features you will definitely want to leave turned on, they are just so cool. The fire station is not just eye candy, you actually need it, especially when the volcano erupts. Its never as bad as it sounds but looks pretty awesome in the game. The new features appear to work well and are best described as a nice think layer of coolness that lays over Tropico 3, taking Tropico 4 to a whole new level. I always thought Tropico 3 lacked the buildings to make it an island holiday resort, well there are lots to choose from now. I also thought the islands where a little small in Tropico 3, they are huge now. There is so much more to Tropico 4 than many here have made out, it is pretty clear to me that the reviews claiming it looks like Tropico 3 are from people who have not played it for more than 2 hours. When I get the chance I'll make a Youtube video of the game and prove my point to you all. In the mean time, this is worth getting even if you own Tropico 3 and Absolute power, trust me, its cool :)… Expand
  17. Digitalkid
    Sep 3, 2011
    8
    Really game looks like some addon, no buildings models changed, graphics just slightly improved. But gameplay still awesome, more buildings, tasks are much better organized, performance geatly improved, disasters, ministers. Same good old Tropico, but better and faster. Still I think it's not a NEW game. :)
  18. Tikigur
    Oct 27, 2011
    8
    I have enjoyed all the Tropico games. The additional resources, disasters, complexity, tweaks and great graphics have definitely improved the game, or at least kept it up to scratch. Currently at $40 (cheap for a new game of this depth), it will fall, look out for Steam deals!

    If you are new to sim games (where have you been?) this is a great society/economy sim, one of the most polished    I have enjoyed all the Tropico games. The additional resources, disasters, complexity, tweaks and great graphics have definitely improved the game, or at least kept it up to scratch. Currently at $40 (cheap for a new game of this depth), it will fall, look out for Steam deals!

    If you are new to sim games (where have you been?) this is a great society/economy sim, one of the most polished out there with Sims, SimCity and Roller Coaster Tycoon. It is essentially an upgrade (more of a complete overhaul and rebuild really) of Tropico 3 but for the price it is well worth it. Don't skimp on Tropico 3 unless you are too poor to care :P    … Expand
  19. marqpas
    Aug 31, 2011
    10
    The real score is 8.5 to 9.

    This game really is what Tropico 3 should have been in the first place.
    Great fun and good tutorial. Very recommendable for both starters and fans.
  20. Jimbob2k666
    Aug 30, 2011
    8
    For whatever reason, I couldn't get into Tropico 3. It's interface and tutorials weren't up to scratch and amidst a bazlillion other games that released areound the same time, I quickly forgot about it. I bought Tropico 4 because it looked a bit more intuitive. I was right, and I'm really enjoying the game. Another reviewer is probably correct that he feels there isn't much differenceFor whatever reason, I couldn't get into Tropico 3. It's interface and tutorials weren't up to scratch and amidst a bazlillion other games that released areound the same time, I quickly forgot about it. I bought Tropico 4 because it looked a bit more intuitive. I was right, and I'm really enjoying the game. Another reviewer is probably correct that he feels there isn't much difference between 3 and 4, and he may well be right, but if you haven't played 3 then get 4.… Expand
  21. Ashton2571
    Sep 16, 2011
    8
    Great game, for first 5 missions. Then when you begin to earn a load of money, spend a little bit and then your the same amount in debt, it adds up. The only thing that keeps you playing is your curiosity about what other things you can build. I enjoyed having a communist farming island nation, especially with a custom avatar resembling Che Guevara, but the game does unfortunately get oldGreat game, for first 5 missions. Then when you begin to earn a load of money, spend a little bit and then your the same amount in debt, it adds up. The only thing that keeps you playing is your curiosity about what other things you can build. I enjoyed having a communist farming island nation, especially with a custom avatar resembling Che Guevara, but the game does unfortunately get old quickly. Even though i played the demo over and over again, the game has limiting game-play. Still it was fun while it lasted.… Expand
  22. Reverz
    Jan 5, 2013
    9
    I already owned Tropico 3 but since this was only
  23. JSNB
    Sep 24, 2011
    8
    Well good game, they added more detail and little options you can do which is something that is really needed in games like this to keep my interest but i'm disappointed in amount they added, I think they could've done better by adding more, especially on the character screen, they pretty much copy-pasted that, which bugs me. In short, add more things, the more control you give me overWell good game, they added more detail and little options you can do which is something that is really needed in games like this to keep my interest but i'm disappointed in amount they added, I think they could've done better by adding more, especially on the character screen, they pretty much copy-pasted that, which bugs me. In short, add more things, the more control you give me over things that may even seem insignificant, the happier i'll be.… Expand
  24. LogantheRunner
    Sep 29, 2011
    9
    I finished Tropico 3, and Tropico 4 is an improved version. Playing Tropico 4 is like playing an updated, completed Tropico 3, so if you liked that game you should be satisfied with this one.
    Tropico 4 is the best game of its type since SimCity. I paid $40 and as a great fan, well I won't complain. I would recommend this game to Civ fans, Sim fans, but if FPS is your thing, it might not    I finished Tropico 3, and Tropico 4 is an improved version. Playing Tropico 4 is like playing an updated, completed Tropico 3, so if you liked that game you should be satisfied with this one.
    Tropico 4 is the best game of its type since SimCity. I paid $40 and as a great fan, well I won't complain. I would recommend this game to Civ fans, Sim fans, but if FPS is your thing, it might not be for you.
    Tropico 4 is funny, if you think politics is funny, you have a Swiss Bank Account and you can learn how to oppress or enlighten your people - can't wait to get home and play all night!    … Expand
  25. Plutarco
    Dec 6, 2013
    10
    Even better than Tropico 3, funnier and far more complex. This version also adds new interesting buildings and objectives. It is an excellent game, don't think it twice to purchase it because it is also a great and peaceful option among so many repetitive and bloody games out there.
  26. TheNikus
    Sep 2, 2013
    8
    Tropico 4 is a really motivating game. The campaign is really fun, all 20 missions of it. With tourism, trade, different factions and other aspects of your island to manage, you have a lot to do in this game. It really makes you feel like a dictator too, you can have people assassinated or simple shot in the streets by your soldiers. The voice messages you get from faction leaders andTropico 4 is a really motivating game. The campaign is really fun, all 20 missions of it. With tourism, trade, different factions and other aspects of your island to manage, you have a lot to do in this game. It really makes you feel like a dictator too, you can have people assassinated or simple shot in the streets by your soldiers. The voice messages you get from faction leaders and foreign representatives are really funny. While playing the campaign, I only encountered a single glitch (didn't let me finish the mission, had to use a cheat). Also weird: Religious people sometimes demand a cathedral on an island with three apartment buildings and two farms.… Expand
  27. pyradius
    Apr 21, 2012
    8
    Game is definitely a solid upgrade to its predecessor. Tutorial to teach you the basics. Campaign is much more coherent, and from my experience you have a lot more flexibility economically to build up your nation which should make it overall more accessible. That isn't to say you can't screw up. I don't consider myself an expert and have had a few missions where I spiraled into debt,Game is definitely a solid upgrade to its predecessor. Tutorial to teach you the basics. Campaign is much more coherent, and from my experience you have a lot more flexibility economically to build up your nation which should make it overall more accessible. That isn't to say you can't screw up. I don't consider myself an expert and have had a few missions where I spiraled into debt, but most of them I have been able to grow my nation as I had planned. I think I am around 14/20 through the campaign and have been enjoying this one much more than Tropico 3.… Expand
  28. gyrate
    Nov 24, 2011
    10
    This game is a true gem with endless replay value. There are so many paths that you can choose. On the surface it will trick a player that is not paying attention. The more you dig into things you begin to realize how much thought actually went into this. Tropico 3 is of course awesome and I would have been upset had they deviated too far from the original formula. A good example would beThis game is a true gem with endless replay value. There are so many paths that you can choose. On the surface it will trick a player that is not paying attention. The more you dig into things you begin to realize how much thought actually went into this. Tropico 3 is of course awesome and I would have been upset had they deviated too far from the original formula. A good example would be my love for Civ IV BTS. When Civ V came out using a new formula I was heart broken. My shock from that fallout led me to this diamond in the rough. Once you really get into this game you'll need a well built gaming machine. I'm here to tell you folks this game right here is hardcore it is not the candy coated shell that you might believe. The modding community is beginning to form, and El Presidente is taking over.… Expand
  29. Mathew952
    Dec 29, 2011
    10
    This is much more than a repack of Tropico 3, even if the graphics engine is more or less the same. This game makes minor changes to the GUI, but in terms of appearance, it's mostly the same as Tropico 3. However, the game-play has been improved dramatically in my opinion. The road system is much better implemented, the council of ministers works very well, the 20 added buildings are allThis is much more than a repack of Tropico 3, even if the graphics engine is more or less the same. This game makes minor changes to the GUI, but in terms of appearance, it's mostly the same as Tropico 3. However, the game-play has been improved dramatically in my opinion. The road system is much better implemented, the council of ministers works very well, the 20 added buildings are all good for the most part, and to top it off, the radio show in this game is FAR less annoying than Jaunito or Betty ever were. The humor is much improved, and the blandness of parts of Tropico 3 have been done away with; their is always something happening. The addition of advisers for each faction, each with unique personalities and decent advice is also a plus. The biggest addition, however, is the 20 mission campaign, which unlike the previous games, is a single cohesive narrative that is entertaining and quite funny. Overall, this game is a big step up from Tropico 3, even if it might look the same. The only real downside is that the El Presidente voice actor is very lame, and puts emphasis on the entirely wrong parts of sentences.… Expand
  30. sincity9669
    Nov 17, 2012
    10
    awesome game with tons of re playability and great political movements. The only reason this would not be a good game for and hardcore strategy city building fan is if you had played the very similar tropico 3. All in all and amazing game.
  31. dprkforum
    Mar 4, 2012
    10
    First and foremost, Tropico 4 does have any serious breakthroughs in the graphics department. They are dated indeed, but that does not really matter, because the game is simply a lot of fun. Plenty of challenge to last for countless hours, and once you are done with that, play around with a sandbox mission or two. No, it is not your typical city building game, but that is a positive allFirst and foremost, Tropico 4 does have any serious breakthroughs in the graphics department. They are dated indeed, but that does not really matter, because the game is simply a lot of fun. Plenty of challenge to last for countless hours, and once you are done with that, play around with a sandbox mission or two. No, it is not your typical city building game, but that is a positive all the same. a lot of people say it is like Tropico 3. I never played Tropico 3, so if it is the same, maybe stick with that one.… Expand
  32. topender
    Apr 4, 2012
    9
    This game has sucked hours of time out of me. Despite the fact its not a huge leap from Tropico 3 I have loved every minute of it. New missions. new islands. New buildings. The humour of the game and missions are excellent
  33. Casperge
    May 13, 2012
    8
    Tropico is a good old style simulation game with a nice sense of humor. I bought this recently when it was on sale in Steam. I won't recommend to pay the full price but when it is on sale it's worth it for all fans who like simulation games. Graphics are not astonishing(especially not we can do these days with computers, check out Skyrim f.e.) but good enough, music is nice in theTropico is a good old style simulation game with a nice sense of humor. I bought this recently when it was on sale in Steam. I won't recommend to pay the full price but when it is on sale it's worth it for all fans who like simulation games. Graphics are not astonishing(especially not we can do these days with computers, check out Skyrim f.e.) but good enough, music is nice in the beginning but later on I had to turn it off and played my local radio station. In the game there are Lots of choices to become a good Caribbean island and a new Fidel Castro.… Expand
  34. Fonzy
    May 28, 2014
    8
    This game is pretty damn cool. To anyone of my generation that grew up playing SimCity on Mac Classics, this game is a must-play.

    I did not pick up this series until Tropico 4, so I can't share the gripes that some other people have that this version is not much an upgrade over Tropico 3, but I think if you're new to the series, this installment is a fine place to start. Tropico 5 was    This game is pretty damn cool. To anyone of my generation that grew up playing SimCity on Mac Classics, this game is a must-play.

    I did not pick up this series until Tropico 4, so I can't share the gripes that some other people have that this version is not much an upgrade over Tropico 3, but I think if you're new to the series, this installment is a fine place to start. Tropico 5 was just released, too, and I'm eager to try it out, but I'm going to wait for it to come down in price a little first.

    Solid game.    … Expand
  35. Gabem77
    May 25, 2012
    9
    the perfect follow up to Tropico 3 this game is great for people who have never played the series before the game is exaclty like tropico 3 except for a few revisments and improvments there are more buildings and options to run your goverment. but thats it its a great game because its exaclty like tropico 3 which was amazing and you can buy this right now on amazon for $9.99 for an instantthe perfect follow up to Tropico 3 this game is great for people who have never played the series before the game is exaclty like tropico 3 except for a few revisments and improvments there are more buildings and options to run your goverment. but thats it its a great game because its exaclty like tropico 3 which was amazing and you can buy this right now on amazon for $9.99 for an instant download great deal!… Expand
  36. Zegu
    Jun 6, 2014
    9
    I have sunk so many hours into this game. I bought it right after the sim city fiasco and couldn't be happier. It is a silly town builder with some cool options in edicts.
  37. JampStealthy
    Aug 19, 2013
    10
    Never played a Tropico game before. I liked Civilization but most city-building games such as SimCity I found very boring. This, however is a perfectly crafted game, with addictive gameplay, a great atmosphere, and the best music in any strategy game I've ever heard. Highly recommended.
  38. TheEarthDragon
    Sep 13, 2021
    9
    Still the best Tropico to this day. The woke will have meltdowns with soft gender roles adding to the management aspect, but that is also part of the fun and struggle to balance your Tropical Paradise
  39. MonkeyNutts85
    May 5, 2013
    10
    By far the best single player RTS game ever made. Great graphics and game play. I played Tropico 3 before and fell in love with the series. Although it looks like it can be a repetitive game it isn't. The mission story lines you go through are really good and at time funny if you read the text.

    The added help of the map editor allows those who are good with some scripting to make their    By far the best single player RTS game ever made. Great graphics and game play. I played Tropico 3 before and fell in love with the series. Although it looks like it can be a repetitive game it isn't. The mission story lines you go through are really good and at time funny if you read the text.

    The added help of the map editor allows those who are good with some scripting to make their own missions and upload them for others to play. If you are a die hard RTS player then you will never be put off with this game. Even 3 months after I finished the game, you can still go go back and play and get thoroughly engrossed into the game again.

    Well worth the money....Tropico 5 is in production and Kalypso have said they are start the graphics from scratch. I personally can't wait.    … Expand
  40. lach1223
    Oct 29, 2013
    8
    At first glance, Tropico 4 looks a lot like Tropico 3: the graphics engine is very similar and many models are reused. However, Tropico 4 brings many good additions to the series to create a more enjoyable experience overall. Tropico 4 adds more buildings and missions as well as a cooler soundtrack. Tropico 4 also adds more foreign factions such as China and you can now import resourcesAt first glance, Tropico 4 looks a lot like Tropico 3: the graphics engine is very similar and many models are reused. However, Tropico 4 brings many good additions to the series to create a more enjoyable experience overall. Tropico 4 adds more buildings and missions as well as a cooler soundtrack. Tropico 4 also adds more foreign factions such as China and you can now import resources rather than just export. Although the premise can get repetitive, there is lots to do in Tropico 4. From the campaign, to the random map generator sandbox to user made challenges, you are sure to have lots of fun being El Presidente.… Expand
  41. starlight12
    Jul 2, 2013
    8
    Tropico 4 is a city builder in a little island, you are a dictator.
    You must survive after 50 years of tyranny.
    In first, the content of the game The campaign is long, with hard constraints (but we will see after that's not really hard). And after you can try the community's challenge. Or a custom sandbox with adjustable difficulty. So the life span as long as your desire to become El    Tropico 4 is a city builder in a little island, you are a dictator.
    You must survive after 50 years of tyranny.
    In first, the content of the game
    The campaign is long, with hard constraints (but we will see after that's not really hard). And after you can try the community's challenge. Or a custom sandbox with adjustable difficulty. So the life span as long as your desire to become El presidente.

    Now, the gameplay. The main goal is to survive, against elections (too easy for the fraud), against the rebels, the insurrections, the putsch or survive against USA or URSS. You must satisfy the citizens, they are communist, ecologist, religious.... Because if they angry, they hate presidente. And you must build building or industries for have more and more money, with exports or tourism. Mine, farm, bank, all means are good and after, with the Dollards, you can build a mausoleum (loyalists love that) or invest to your Swiss Counts or a church.....

    The only problem or this game is the fiancial difficulties absent at the long term (in-game, the 1980'decade).
    You win too much money with industry and planting, the only limitation is the lack of labors.
    But with money, you can pay everything, 10 hospital or 10 churchs (everyone is satisfied) or cops and military for kill rebels, too easy to survive after 30 years in-game. And the decree destroy opposition (the spy too).
    And the requirement of our people doesn't increase significantly.
    After the end of URSS with the miracle of the capitalism, people wants the pretty life and doesn't want live with 10 Dollards per mouth. This is possible to transcribe this.

    For the conclusion A party in campaign or in sandbox give you the happiness to kill opposants with difficulties, but at the long-term, you have more money than you can spend.

    But the game stay pleasurable and you will enjoy that.
    (Sorry for my english)    … Expand
  42. K7Sniper
    Jul 14, 2013
    9
    As a long time fan of the Sim City series, I was one of the many who essentially was sent off with the latest EA debacle looking for a new form of city simulation. After picking this up on Steam during a sale. It has been worth every penny. While it may not look as pretty as other games like Cities XL, it makes up for it in every other way. The game itself is very smooth, the objectivesAs a long time fan of the Sim City series, I was one of the many who essentially was sent off with the latest EA debacle looking for a new form of city simulation. After picking this up on Steam during a sale. It has been worth every penny. While it may not look as pretty as other games like Cities XL, it makes up for it in every other way. The game itself is very smooth, the objectives add some sort of "Here, try to get this at your leisure" element, and all the construction projects feel that they have some sort of purpose to them. While there are some elements that I wish could be added or changed, such as perhaps a difficulty increase, or an option to set zones instead of actual buildings in some cases (think Sim City vs Sim Town style of construction), but overall, the game has been very enjoyable and it is worth the cost.… Expand
  43. gracjanski
    Aug 24, 2018
    10
    This game is a positive surprise for me. Of course I have the Complete Edition with all DLC. I didnt play the Tropico 3, so I cant compare it and cant complain that it is more or less the same.

    The gameplay is great, especially because it has a campaign, that is even well done. In the campaign you need to build up an isle with different strategies, what is exactly, what I want in such    This game is a positive surprise for me. Of course I have the Complete Edition with all DLC. I didnt play the Tropico 3, so I cant compare it and cant complain that it is more or less the same.

    The gameplay is great, especially because it has a campaign, that is even well done. In the campaign you need to build up an isle with different strategies, what is exactly, what I want in such simulations. But the campaign could be shorter or more diversified, because you build up islands from the start all the time. Could be a better idea to take some islands and solve problems (like in the scenarios in the sim city games). But overall I like this game even more than the popular Sim City franchise. In addition all the political mechanics are reasonable to me, especially I like the 8 political fractions and how to handle them.

    The atmosphere is great also with a cool humour and nice hints on the practical side of the politics.
    It is a fun to zoom into the streets and watch the normal day by your citizens.

    The devs could put in much more and better music, but for that I hear to some caribbean/ hawaiian music via youtube.

    And yes, the natural desasters are not fun, especially, when they come so often, very frustrating.

    There are challenges, but they are blank, because you need to download them and the connection to the server is not working.

    The DLC Modern Times is bad, you can read about it in the DLC page.    … Expand
  44. Wizzsama
    Jul 29, 2013
    10
    I like Tropico from last millenia, when first game was released. And this game are not an exception. But comparing first and fourth Tropico I can say that i just love the story here, even if it lost charming rebel's radio from third.
  45. DanySK
    Oct 31, 2015
    8
    More Tropico 3, and that is good in my opinion. If you liked the previous chapter and want more of the same, this should be satisfying. If you search a wide improvement, or new game mechanics, or you don't like the third chapter, stay away.
  46. TheKingJpiter
    May 27, 2014
    10
    I love this game i ve played this game for weeks and it was amazing and i love tropico 4 with the Modren Times dlc and it is more exitng than Tropico 5
  47. Dco326
    Jun 28, 2023
    8
    Dobra igrica realno dobro sam se proveo ali je bas slicna kao trojka, al ajde kampanja je zanimljiva ali posle nekog vremena postane malkice repetativna i to je to. Nikad vise za jednom je top
  48. Trey82
    Dec 8, 2019
    8
    Coming off of T6 and T5 (I felt like a leisurely city building sim, and T5 truly disappoints with its lightning pace and endless MISSIONS. T4 gives you far more choice in accepting missions and doesnt push you to complete 10 months of work in a 12 month timeframe!),
    I miss certain things, sure. The interface in 5 is laid out better. The buildings are far more 'diverse' in their benefits,    Coming off of T6 and T5 (I felt like a leisurely city building sim, and T5 truly disappoints with its lightning pace and endless MISSIONS. T4 gives you far more choice in accepting missions and doesnt push you to complete 10 months of work in a 12 month timeframe!),
    I miss certain things, sure. The interface in 5 is laid out better. The buildings are far more 'diverse' in their benefits, and you cant build an uber-starter economy in 5 minutes by throwing down 10 woodcutters, waiting for the environmentalists to complain and then solve it with garbage dumps in the next 5 minutes. :)

    With that said, I solidly endorse T4 as a 'leisurely' city builder. Yes, you have missions but you dont have to rush to them.

    Yes, the populace is never happy with what you are doing and you have to .. in essence, never satisfy everyone, because doing so would actually anger another faction. (Your sims want churches, so build them.
    Wait, you built too many, the middle east doesnt like it and the church now wants you to get rid of all that alcohol-based entertainment you just built!)

    Which leads us to two things: You kinda have to do your homework. Do you really need to? I mean, could I wing it? Sure.
    But if you realy want to enjoy the scenario you are about to enter, you should 'perk' up, accordingly.

    If you head into a mission where you'll need to build mines because export on everything else has a -30% debuff.. well what can we do? I like T4 because I really do have choice in how and when to tackle it! :)

    Do I just deal with the low prices and hit it with pure numbers? 400 citizens mining dirt-cheap commodities will keep the economy afloat, but you arent gonna hit a million bucks, anytime soon.

    Do we go food-heavy? A ton of farms and ranches, and then buff up those ranches by making it smoked beef and choosing 'food for the people' to increase happiness because the money isnt rolling in fast enough to build all the necessaries overnight...

    Do I just wing it and leave the immigration office on 'open door' and let the island turn into a runaway train? I can turn it back down to 'tropico first' and problem-solve during the next 10 rebel attacks, easy. At least I hope so.

    Anyway. The paths are there, and the learning curve makes it feel like youre repeating the exact same thing over and over until you learn what works. That is every strategy game ~ but the leeway you have in this one will make itself known within 2 hours. Give the first mission a couple tries.

    I only have 3 overxplained points of advice for you.

    Immigration office.
    First building you buy. Build it and change your immigration policy IMMEDIATELY when problems are solved or arise. (Problem: Not enough or too many workers. Check the almanac with F1 and see how many unemployed and how many job openings there are. Constantly.)

    Education requirements.
    This isnt simcity ~ you are shooting yourself in the foot by over-educating your citizens! who will work the basic jobs after you turn everyone into a needy, overpaid high school or college grad? Besides being super expensive to just throw down 4 buildings (basic school, HS and college) that'll solve a long term problem in 5 minutes... you can rush your society into overspecializing, and you'll notice it in your almanac ~ but it wont directly tell you that despite having 36 job openings, the college grads choose to be unemployed and homeless (no income, ergo no home, ergo the communists think you have insufficient housing, ergo the people are unhappy, yada yada)... so what do you do, now? You overeducated them and they now just sit on their ass and whine about it. Go back to the immigration office and turn it to 'love it or leave it' ~ the unhappy citizens will up and leave within that year.
    Sure you could just build some college-required buildings like clinics, dig for oil, armory, etc. But that is expensive and shows a lack of planning.

    MILITARY!
    While you are busy jumping from one problem to the next, barely giving much attention to the fact that maybe you have 3 rebels on the island.. (3? So what? Disorganized and whiny rebels dont pose a threat, yet! ~ That is what we think, 5 minutes before a rebel attack. Give or take. :)
    Build an army base. Create sentry boxes at your palace. The job satisfaction promises that you'll at least have a barebones defense. If your population is unhappy, you should throw up a second base... and maybe hunt down some rebels and put a bullet in 'em or arrest them. Youre just creating more problems, but at least youll get a chance to solve them, instead of watching the palace burn. *shrug*

    Good game. Not perfect. Not easy nor hard. But good for a few hours, a few salsa songs and a laugh. :)    … Expand
  49. apokalipto
    Aug 13, 2023
    9
    Very good game. I enjoyed playing this game a lot. I strongly recommend this.
  50. saxonec
    Nov 15, 2021
    10
    Игра в которую я влюбился по трейлерам, игра которая влюбила меня в ходе прохождения. Отличная сюжетная компания, большой функционал микроэкономики и менеджмента. Это очень качественная игра, учитывая её стоимость, рекомендую.Игра в которую я влюбился по трейлерам, игра которая влюбила меня в ходе прохождения. Отличная сюжетная компания, большой функционал микроэкономики и менеджмента. Это очень качественная игра, учитывая её стоимость, рекомендую.

Awards & Rankings

60
#60 Best PC Game of 2011
60
#60 Most Discussed PC Game of 2011
58
#58 Most Shared PC Game of 2011

Critic Reviews

All reviews »
Metascore
78

Generally favorable reviews - based on 46 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 32 out of 46
  2. Mixed: 14 out of 46
  3. Negative: 0 out of 46
  1. Gamer.no
    Apr 18, 2013
    70
    Taking control over the fictitious banana republic Tropico is still very entertaining. The changes from Tropico 3 are not overwhelming, but for new players the learning curve is a bit steep. However Tropico 4 is an addictive title and a safe alternative to Theme - and Sim -games.
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  2. Games.cz
    Dec 29, 2011
    70
    A well-made instalment of the great game trying not to innovate itself, but pleasing its hardcore fans or newcomers nonetheless – by its new campaign with more assignments, an import option and by a several new buildings addition. One is just wondering why there are still some flaws in the game and why the Tropico 4 does not bear a title of an expansion pack?
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  3. Vandal
    Nov 22, 2011
    80
    The game expands and improves the series, making it more approachable than ever, but without losing depth, so it offers the same fun, but improved. However, it evolves little in comparison with the previous entry, so those who enjoyed Tropico 3 won't find many new things in this fourth installment.
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