Simulation games have become all the rage with titles ranging from "Goat Simulator" to "Farming Simulator." The genre, once only really available to PC gamers, is now available on Xbox One in the form of "Prison Architect," the highly acclaimed prison-building game - albeit in Game Preview form.
The developer, Introversion Software, notes that the Xbox One version of "Prison Architect is far from completion and what players experience now could be vastly different from what they experience in the final build." It goes on to say that there remains a chance the product may never reach a "completed" build, but still encourages players to give the game a go regardless.
"Prison Architect" serves as a counterpoint to "The Escapists." While the latter had player simulate planning and breaking out of prison, all while suffering through a variety of activities a prisoner must go through, "Prison Architect" provides the opposite perspective, tasking players with the challenge of running a prison. As such the player has the option of creating prisons ranging from one ideal for inmate rehabilitation or a "Supermax Prison" where only the strongest survive.
As an architect, players will need to make sure their inmate's needs are met, including shelter, food, hygeine and even education. However, the game is quick to remind you that while meeting the needs of the convicts is ultimately the goal, no one wants to be in prison, so you'll need to be alert at all times.
The game will feature two single-player modes, the first being Prison Stories, a.k.a the Main Campaign, where you will deal with situations such as fires, hostage situations and even prison-wide riots. If successful in handling the various scenarios the inmates put you through, the Mayor will reward your effort by handing you the reins to another brand-new prison development project where you can create the "prison of your dreams."
The second is Architect Mode, a.k.a Sandbox mode, where you can skip the learning process and act as both the architect and governor, leaving every aspect of the prison at your fingertips.
"Prison Architect" also features an online mode called World of Wardens, which players can use to share their creations with the community, as well as a Prison Warden mode where players can take control of one of various pre-built prisons from the community immediately.
If you've been itching to have a taste of what its like to run a prison, you can directly download "Prison Architect Preview" for Xbox One from the Xbox online store. Introversion Software, encourages any and all feedback or issue reporting. Those who wish to do so, can do it at the official website.
Check out the old trailer for "Prison Architect" below.
