Demolish and Build Classic is a rudimentary simulation title. Consequently, if you want a deep and challenging experience, you may wish to look elsewhere. However, if you want a bit of mindless fun, then this could be right up your street.
This construction simulator was developed by Demolish Games and published by Ultimate Games. What’s more, this open-world sandbox experience is loaded with heavy plant machinery and oodles of tasks to complete. On top of this, there are houses to build, businesses to run, and a profit margin to manage. As such, though the action is straightforward, there are plenty of things to do.
Demolish and Build Classic tells a classic story.
If you are a simulation genre aficionado, then you’ll acknowledge the familiar story. Yet, if you are relatively new to the scene, you’ll enjoy a rather shallow but necessary plot. You are the head of a failing construction company. With limited funds in the bank and bankruptcy looming, you need to work hard and think fast. As such, you are required to undertake the simplest of jobs to enhance your cash flow. Subsequently, once the money starts rolling in, you can invest in new ideas and save your company.
Now, this sounds like an interesting and captivating story. However, disappointingly, it isn’t. Once you pass the opening gambit, the wheels are set in motion. Consequently, you move from one job to another as your guide phones you to advise you of your next task. This, sadly, is the limitation of the gameplay loop. Yet, Demolish and Build Classic keeps things fresh thanks to its sandbox approach.
Follow the missions or do as you wish.
Though your progress is stuck on a definitive linear path, you are free to explore any open region. Furthermore, if you want to undertake any side jobs to increase your bank account, you are free to do so. However, there are limitations based on the equipment you own and the tools you wield.
As you progress through the game, you earn XP. Moreover, once you hit certain goals, your level will increase and new equipment can be purchased. This was a great approach, as it kept the action balanced. Additionally, it reduces confusion as the action evolves based on the progress you’ve made. Furthermore, if you were to own the end-game properties out of course, it would undermine the value of the early missions.
Plenty of big machines.
What I loved about Demolish and Build Classic was the volume of machines at your disposal. Using a bulldozer to flatten piles of dirt or an excavator to dig vast holes was fantastic. However, using the hand tools wasn’t such a thrilling experience. Sadly, they lacked any realism, and this was frustrating.
I’m no expert in demolition, but I know that you shouldn’t remove a wall by hitting the lowest block. What’s more, a nail gun can’t be used from a distance to secure a roof. As such, though these elements amused me, they reduced the realism to a laughable level. Accordingly, if you are serious about your simulation games, this will disgust you.
Demolish and Build Classic is dated.
Demolish and Build Classic doesn’t look great. Sadly, it is filled with bugs and glitches and the textures are horrible. Moreover, the finish of each building is dated at best. Alongside this, render distance is painfully low, and this makes it a jarring experience. However, what was good was the UI and the ability to highlight your tasks.
The audio is a mixed bag as well. Consequently, you’ll either love or hate what you hear. For reasons unknown, the developers created a strange and sinister background soundtrack. Thankfully, though, this was often overcome by a range of radio stations whenever you drove a vehicle. Additionally, the low and often obnoxious noise of your vehicles and tools drowned out the music to fine effect. Subsequently, it was only noticeable if you had to walk any great distance.
The controls should have been better.
The controller layout and sensitivity settings are dreadful. Unfortunately, it takes too long to get used to the odd key binding. Consequently, it is frustrating and will put off many would-be gamers. Alongside this, driving each vehicle is painful. Your car, bulldozer, or truck will snake out of control every time you drive it. As such, you’ll laugh, scream, and decide to walk. Unfortunately, though this then forces you to listen to the strange soundtrack. As such, it’s a cruel catch-22.
Though Demolish and Build Classic has its faults, it was strangely addictive. If you’re a sucker for a simulation game, then you’ll enjoy this despite its flaws. I have to applaud the developer’s vision and their vast open world. However, they should have focused on the basics to deliver a more rounded experience.
Demolish and Build Classic will appeal to a niche audience.
I usually love Ultimate Games’ simulation titles. As such, I normally forgive the familiar edge and dated finish. However, it is tough to look past so many shortcomings. Annoyingly, the controls aren’t good enough and the action lacks realism. Yet, it is still fun to play, and that’s why I recommend that you buy it here! Can you save your construction company? Work hard, complete every job, and keep on investing.
