Bootleg Steamer proves that crime most definitely pays! However, where there are massive crime-ridden gains to be had, there are hefty prices to be paid. Accordingly, this is very much a risk vs reward experience. Alongside this, it captures the essence of the 1920s and 30s perfectly. As such, you’ll enjoy a journey into America’s murky past.
This rogue-lite title was developed by Team Junkfish and published by Junkfish Limited. Moreover, there is a sense of resource management and stealth action. Subsequently, there are plenty of elements to juggle in what appears to be a straightforward endeavour. Thankfully, though, a thorough tutorial and a gentle learning curve keep you on the straight and narrow.
Bootleg Steamer takes a jolly trip across prohibition.
You are lucky enough to live in one of the greatest countries in the world. America is the land of the free and the home of the brave. Well, most of that is true unless you lived through the American prohibition! This was a dangerous and fascinating era of their limited history. Furthermore, the Mafia and other crime empires thrived thanks to the strict drinking laws.
This is where you step in. You control the captain of a steamer ship. At first glance, this vessel appears quite ordinary. But beneath the deck is a cargo of illegal goods and a greedy, cash-hungry crew. Your job is to keep them safe whilst avoiding the coastguard and making a tidy profit at the same time.
14 years to become filthy rich!
Bootleg Steamer allows you 14 years or 14 levels to make as much cash as humanly possible. Each year is represented by a slow-moving calendar. As time passes, the days reduce, and pressure builds. If you avoid detection, you’ll progress to a new year and the gameplay cycle starts again.
The aim of the game is simple. You must purchase legal and illegal goods to sell to cities under prohibition laws. Furthermore, there are quests to complete, new ships to buy and impressive upgrades to install. Moreover, there is the Mafia to contend with and the watchful eye of the coastguard to avoid.
With so many elements in play, you have plenty to contend with. Yet, it is this madness that makes Bootleg Steamer both addictive and challenging. Additionally, the cruel twist of the rogue-lite genre adds a dramatic edge that keeps you coming back for more.
Risk vs reward.
What makes this so brilliantly addictive is the straightforward risk vs reward mindset. You are free to select the captain, crew, ship, and upgrades that suit your play style. Additionally, as long as you have the cash, you can adjust every element as the game progresses.
On top of this, you must balance your cargo of illicit goods with less profitable items. This can be a tough juggling act as a vessel filled to the brim with illegal items earns you a pretty penny. However, being caught too many times by the coastguard will end your crime spree. Accordingly, you must be aware of the constant game of cat and mouse.
Finally, shipwrecks, party boats, and the Mafia play an essential role in this world of crime. The shipwrecks hide random surprises, whereas the party boats are perfect for dumping some alcohol for a quick profit. The Mafia, on the other hand, offer short-term buffs for a potential ball-breaking loss. Consequently, getting on their bad side is not advised.
Bootleg Steamer transports you to the 1920s.
Aesthetically, the developer has done an incredible job. The level design is clever, varied, and interesting to explore. With a range of obstacles to avoid, and rat runs to sail through, you’ll love exploring every stage. Alongside this, the rich, earthy colour palette delivers a dated ambience with a modern finish. The crisp lines, interesting character models, and unique ship designs were fascinating and great to look at.
The soundtrack is simply divine! The jazzy tunes have a wonderful authentic gramophone edge. Moreover, the upbeat tunes enhance the naughty criminal vibes. Subsequently, there is a sense of mischievous fun as you undertake every level.
No controller support.
Bootleg Steamer may annoy controller-loving gamers. Sadly, in its current build, it doesn’t support a gamepad. However, you may use WASD and your mouse or simply your mouse to navigate the world. Either way, the inputs were responsive, accurate, and simple to understand. Additionally, the physics of each ship’s strengths and weaknesses were highlighted. Poor turning circles, slow acceleration, and impressive top speeds can be experienced through the well-considered control system.
This rogue-lite has that “just one more go” feel. Furthermore, no matter how many times you fail, you never let that put you off. On top of this, there are plenty of tactical elements to test and many play styles to experience. Consequently, this has both replay value and longevity.
Bootleg Steamer is a great Indie title.
The indie market is saturated. Therefore, it is tough to stand out from the crowd. Luckily, Bootleg Steamer does just that with its fresh gameplay, authentic aesthetics, and addictive nature. What’s more, putting the boot into the government’s ridiculous laws is the cherry on top of a crime-riddled cake. Unsurprisingly, I love this naughty prohibition-breaking title and recommend buying it here! Profit is profit, no matter how many laws you break. Pick a ship, choose your crew, and avoid the coastguard.
