Boxelware, the developers behind the space sim Avorion, are diving into new waters with their upcoming title Aquapark Tycoon. Set for release in 2025, this waterpark management sim promises to be a refreshing addition to the tycoon genre. We had the opportunity to meet the developers and play an early build of the game at their booth in the Indie Arena during Gamescom 2024, and we came away impressed with its depth and potential.
Building Your Aquatic Empire
Aquapark Tycoon puts you in charge of designing, building, and managing your very own water park. Starting with a modest indoor pool, you’ll expand your aquatic empire to include a diverse array of attractions. The game features over 10 types of pools, each with customizable depths, temperatures, and water types. From sports pools for the athletically inclined to thermal pools for relaxation seekers, there’s something for every type of guest.
One of the standout features we experienced during our hands-on time was the modular water slide construction system. This intuitive tool allows for incredible creativity, letting you design thrilling slides with steep bends, drops, funnels, and even black hole elements. The attention to detail in the water physics and guest reactions was particularly impressive.
Beyond the Pools
While the aquatic attractions are the star of the show, Aquapark Tycoon offers much more. The game includes a robust sauna system, allowing you to customize temperature, humidity, and even aromatherapy options. This adds another layer of strategy as you cater to guests seeking relaxation alongside the thrill-seekers.
The changing seasons play a significant role in park management. During our demo, we saw how the developers implemented this feature, requiring players to adapt their strategies throughout the year. Cool outdoor pools might be popular in summer, but heated indoor attractions become crucial for winter profits.
Management Depth
Aquapark Tycoon doesn’t just focus on construction – it’s a full-fledged management sim. You’ll need to balance finances, staff management, and guest satisfaction to succeed. The game features different guest demographics, each with unique needs and preferences. We found the challenge of catering to families, teenagers, and seniors simultaneously to be engaging and sometimes humorously conflicting.
Visuals and Performance
Even in its pre-release state, Aquapark Tycoon impressed us with its vibrant, colorful graphics and smooth performance. The water effects, in particular, stood out as a highlight. The developers mentioned ongoing optimization efforts to ensure the game runs well on a variety of systems.
Early Impressions
Our time with Aquapark Tycoon at Gamescom left us eager to dive deeper into its aquatic world. The blend of creative freedom in park design with the strategic depth of management gameplay feels fresh and engaging. While the 2025 release date might seem far off, it’s clear that Boxelware is committed to polishing every aspect of the experience.
For fans of tycoon games or anyone who’s ever dreamed of designing their own water park, Aquapark Tycoon is shaping up to be a must-play title. With its promise of endless creativity, challenging management, and the ability to create the ultimate aquatic playground, this game has the potential to make a big splash in the simulation genre.
Check out the Aquapark Tycoon Steam page here.