I'm looking for a trading sim - Completely unfamiliar

[MrEco]

I'm honestly interested in trying this genre out, but I have no idea where to start.

Firstly, I'd like something that is either in space or in the expansion age (With pirates and English red coats n' stuff).

Second, I'd prefer something that isn't just trading, but might have some light amount of combat or RP'ing or whatever.

Lastly, I'd sort of prefer something recent. If I'm gonna be playing a very non-interactive game then I'd at least like it to look pretty ya know? lol

So, within those loose parameters what would you guys recommend? My available systems are PS1, PS2, PSP, PS3, Xbox 360, or PC (GOG or Steam preferred).

[isiolia]

While not quite along the themes you mention, Recettear is probably worth considering and is currently on sale as part of the Steam Autumn Sale (it's available via other channels too).

If you do want to go a bit older, Wing Commander: Privateer is on GoG, though Privateer 2 is not. For a more recent one, though it's also not on GoG or Steam, the jewel case version of Freelancer is not hard to find.


For a different take on it altogether, most MMOs will have a virtual economy of sorts. Perhaps not as consistent as something that's simulated, and more than often screwed up by RMT in some way...but, it's an aspect of the games nonetheless. There's a 14-day trial for EVE, which would fit in with the space theme as well.

[J T]

This isn't a genre I know much about, but most people love EVE Online that are into it.

If you want to get into the origins of the genre, you should play Elite. There is an open source version of it called Oolite that you can download for free.

[sonic2041]

Check out the patrician series. I have never played them but it might be what you are looking for. I know patrician IV is on steam for around $5.

Edit:

Port Royale might interest you as well. Again, I have not played this so I can't say if its any good or not.

Sid Meyer's Pirates! has a minor trading aspect in it that you might like. I really enjoy this one, but the trading does not play a huge role.

[Octopod]

What about one of Paradox games? Europa Universalis, Pride of Nations, Victoria or something along those lines.

Well, they don't look pretty.

[Hatta]

X3 is pretty heavy on the trading aspect. Steep learning curve though.

[REPO Man]

http://www.mobygames.com/game-group/mer ... nted-games

Hope this helps.

[Octopod]

Amazon has some nice bundles on Paradox games right now.

Example.

Paradox Seas Bunlde $9.99 includes....

1. Commander: Conquest of the Americas - Colonial Navy [Download]
$4.99
2. Commander: Conquest of the Americas [Download]
$9.99
3. East India Company Collection [Download]
$29.99
4. Naval War: Arctic Circle [Download]
$19.99
5. Pirates of Black Cove - Origins DLC [Download]
$19.99
6. Pirates of Black Cove [Download]
$19.99
7. Ship Simulator Extremes [Download]
$29.99
8. Victoria II [Online Game Code]
$19.99
9. Victoria II: A House Divided - Expansion [Download]
$19.99


I'm tempted to get it just to play Victoria II + House Divided.


I mean, these aren't just trading games though. They are nation/empire building games so I don't know if that is what you are after. Also graphics on most of Paradox games of this nature are basically limited to a map and text.