PC Magazine: Hoyle Casino Empire

Hoyle Casino Empire is not as complex as other games in the genre, but this empire builder is surprisingly engrossing—perhaps through its reliance on sheer Las Vegas charm. You assume the role of a casino manager who must develop a property to maximize profit and reputation. Properties range from downtown two-room houses to towering spires on the Strip. By adding games, designing interior and exterior decor, and providing services such as security, lounges, and cashiers, you improve the quality of your casino, attracting more customers and therefore more cash.

All the tricks of the gambling business are available to you. You can skew games in favor of the house and provide only high-alcohol drinks. You can even use your security forces to run off cheaters and combat the shady tactics of competitors and corrupt local salesmen. Data tracking is incorporated via handy colored overlays that provide feedback on customer satisfaction and the success of your layout, and budget information is accessible through an easy-to-use four-tab window. Hoyle Casino Empire is one of those rare games that is accessible to beginners but has enough appeal and complexity to engross even serious or veteran strategists.