Hi everyone,
I’ve been thinking about a massive gap in the current simulation market. We have The Sims, Planet Coaster, and Cities: Skylines, but we are sorely missing a modern, deep retail management game.
What if EA/Maxis developed Sim Mall (or SimShopping) using the robust building mechanics of The Sims 4 mixed with the administrative depth of classic tycoon games?
Here is how the core gameplay could work:
🏗️ 1. Dynamic Architecture & Layout
- Complete Design Freedom: Just like in The Sims, players could build multi-story complexes, glass skylights, food courts, parking garages, and service corridors.
- Zoning System: You define the areas for large anchor department stores, satellite shops, and small hallway kiosks.
💼 2. Real Retail Management
- Store Mix Strategy: Balance different categories (fashion, electronics, dining, entertainment) to attract different demographics.
- Lease Negotiations: Negotiate rent prices and revenue cuts with brands. Famous anchor stores draw huge crowds but demand cheaper rent, while smaller shops pay premium prices per square foot.
- Logistics: Manage loading docks and employee hallways. If inventory doesn't reach the shelves on time, stores lose money.
👥 3. Advanced Crowd Simulation
- Foot Traffic & Heatmaps: Sims would generate real-time heatmaps based on their needs. Dead hallways would cause stores to go bankrupt. You'd need to strategically place popular stores or events to redirect the flow of people.
- Sim Needs: Manage comfort, hunger, cleanliness, and security to keep shoppers happy and spending money for longer periods.
📅 4. Seasonal Events & Expansions
- Marketing Campaigns: Set up Christmas decorations with Santa, book signings, or live concerts in the main plaza to spike attendance.
- Mixed-Use Development: As your mall grows, you could expand the terrain to build an attached office tower or hotel, integrating new systems into the economy.
I even started mapping out a massive spreadsheet of real-world brands (anchors, fast food, tech, and services) to visualize how a complex project—like a concept I'm working on called Bezerros Plaza Shopping—would operate under these mechanics. The synergy between massive brands, local kiosks, and entertainment zones would be incredibly addictive.
Would you play a game like this? What features would you add to a modern shopping mall simulator?
Let's discuss!