Moonshine Inc.: Review

05/07/2023

This game was reviewed on PC.

Reviewed by:  David Cameron

Moonshine Inc., developed for PC, offers a unique twist on the simulation genre by immersing players into the clandestine world of moonshine production during the Prohibition era. While it certainly has its flaws, this ambitious title manages to deliver an engaging experience that will appeal to fans of both management games and historical settings.

One of the standout aspects of Moonshine Inc. is its attention to detail and authenticity. From the meticulously designed rural landscapes to the rustic interiors of the distilleries, the game successfully captures the essence of the 1920s. The visual style, with its sepia-toned color palette and charming animations, adds an extra layer of immersion, making every step of the moonshine-making process feel tangible.

The gameplay mechanics of Moonshine Inc. are both complex and rewarding. As the owner of a moonshine operation, you must carefully manage resources, navigate the ever-present threat of law enforcement, and expand your production facilities to meet the demands of a growing customer base. From sourcing ingredients to hiring skilled workers, the game offers a satisfying level of depth, ensuring that each decision you make has a tangible impact on your business.

The narrative framework of Moonshine Inc. is intriguing, with a range of colorful characters inhabiting the game world. These characters provide quests, secrets, and challenges that enrich the gameplay experience. The inclusion of a branching storyline adds replayability, as your choices shape the course of events and determine the ultimate fate of your moonshine empire.

Despite its strengths, Moonshine Inc. does have a few notable drawbacks that hinder its potential. Firstly, the game's pacing can be rather slow, particularly in the early stages. Progressing from a small-time operation to a thriving moonshine empire requires considerable time investment, which might not suit players seeking a more fast-paced experience.

Additionally, Moonshine Inc. could benefit from further polishing and optimization. Occasional bugs and technical hiccups can detract from the overall immersion. While these issues don't completely ruin the experience, they do contribute to a sense of frustration at times.

In terms of audio, Moonshine Inc. delivers a solid soundtrack that complements the atmosphere and era. However, the voice acting falls short of expectations, with some performances feeling lackluster and disconnected from the characters. Improved voice direction and more varied dialogue options would greatly enhance the game's overall immersion.

Taking everything into account, Moonshine Inc. is an intriguing and ambitious game that successfully captures the essence of the Prohibition era. With its attention to detail, complex gameplay mechanics, and branching narrative, it offers a unique and immersive experience for fans of simulation games. Despite some pacing issues, technical hiccups, and lackluster voice acting, Moonshine Inc. manages to deliver an enjoyable and engaging experience that is worth exploring for those seeking a historical simulation with a touch of adventure.

Score: 6/10

Note: The score of 6/10 reflects the game's strengths and weaknesses, acknowledging its positive aspects while also considering the areas where improvements could be made.

Reviewed by: David Cameron