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Railroad Tycoon II (IBM PC Compatible) Reviews:
Railroad Tycoon Ii from Take 2 Interactive is an improvement on the original Railroad Tycoon. The game is still a real-time railway strategy business simulation. In this version of the game, you take on the role of a railroad pioneer who must start a railroad company from nothing.

There are 18 realistic scenario campaigns to embark upon, ranging from the early days of East-West U.S. railroads, to Canadian railways, early colonial Africa, the British Industrial Revolution, and many more. In fact, it's hard to think of a relevant period or place that isn't covered in the game.

As well as laying the track, planning and building the stations, looking for and buying the different types of locomotives, choosing the rolling stock, planning hotels, and running the company, there is a new twist to the sim. There is also the stock market aspect, through a mode that lets you experiment with margin buying, short selling, and hostile takeovers, with a pushy board of directors breathing down your neck.

With improved graphics, a zoom-in facility, support for up to 1024 x 768 resolution, and a whole host of full-motion video clips, the game is a delight to watch as well as play. The sound effects are full of groaning realism and the very informative and detailed manual gives the player full control of his company.

One of the more interesting aspects of this excellent sim is the ability to stretch the timeline in order to see where the company will be years in the future, based on past performance. You can also take advantage of new trends, such as the introduction of diesel and the motor car for competition.

This game is worryingly addictive; it's not just a business simulation, nor just a power game, but an educational competition where only the forward thinker survives and thrives. Nick Smith, All Game Guide

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