• Publisher: Kalypso
  • Release Date: Oct 18, 2011
  • Also On: PC
Metascore
77 out of 100

Generally favorable reviews - based on 18 Critics

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 13 out of 18
  2. Negative: 0 out of 18
  1. Sep 20, 2011
    78
    Tropico 4 is a great game that suffers from a few regrettable issues on console. Assuming the sound problems get fixed (or you install it to your Xbox's hard drive), I heartily recommend it as the simulation/city-builder of choice on 360 despite the less-than-ideal gamepad interface.
  2. Oct 25, 2011
    83
    If you don't have the ability to play Tropico 4 on the PC, I think the Xbox 360 version of the game is certainly suitable enough. It's still a better experience on the PC, especially when it comes to both controls and visuals, but the 360 does the job, and the controller set-up is easy enough to learn.
  3. Jan 12, 2012
    72
    There's never been a better time to get into politics. [Feb 2012, p.101]
  4. Nov 15, 2011
    75
    Given a little time, Tropico 4 proves itself an excellent strategy title, which makes it a rare gem on the 360. It's not the perfect port of a PC game to the console, but if you can slog your way through clunky controls and a somewhat steep learning curve, it provides an incredibly deep, rewarding experience.
  5. 80
    Though its mix of strategy and simulation is something of a console rarity, this franchise endures, thrusting you into a new dictatorial power trip over the burgeoning populace of a Caribbean island. [Nov 2011, p.83]
  6. Dec 6, 2011
    85
    Although there are some gameplay moments if gamers aren't especially careful with expenditures early in the game when some dark clouds of boredom while waiting for some moola to multiply in the national vaults can rain on a sunny day of tropical island ruling, those who enjoy SimCity or Civilization-style resource management gameplay with a heavy dose of political behind-closed-doors wheeling and dealing will enjoy an excursion to Tropico in its latest rendition.
  7. Nov 4, 2011
    87
    Tropico 4 on the Xbox 360 is about as good as a port can get. It even runs better on my Xbox 360 than on my PC. The controls may not work as well as they do on PC, but Haemimont have made sure that they work as well as possible.
  8. Oct 20, 2011
    82
    Tropico 4 has a little more depth than the predecessor in just the right places. If you own a PC, you should consider getting that version instead – mouse beats controller, simple as that. Otherwise: Yes, El Presidente, You should make a bid for power.
  9. Nov 14, 2011
    91
    With the sheer amount of included content and near flawless transition from PC to console, Tropico 4 is a highly recommended destination for an extended vacation.
  10. Dec 12, 2011
    80
    Tropico 4 is an enjoyable and well-polished strategy experience that's accessible and highly addictive, and for that reason we have to recommend that strategy fans pick this one up. After all, it's (probably) the closest most of us will get to becoming any kind of tyrannical dictator.
  11. Enjoyable sim that we've seen before. [Christmas 2011, p.109]
  12. Dec 8, 2011
    60
    Little has changed. [Issue#79, p.87]
  13. Nov 11, 2011
    80
    The controls, simply, work. These kinds of games have had varying amounts of success on the console this generation, with things like Command & Conquer Red Alert 3 coming close but just not being good enough, but in this case Tropico makes a great case for these once PC-only genres appearing on console.
  14. It's a sprinkling of glitter rather than an overhaul. [Feb 2012, p.109]
  15. Nov 29, 2011
    80
    It has a perfect balance of complexity and entertainment, and for how in-depth it really is, I never become too flustered (aside from never keeping enough cash flow on hand).
  16. Dec 13, 2011
    70
    All and all, a worthy heir to the rich tradition of the Tropico series and the City Builder genre. Sometimes it seems a little bit overwhelming even for experienced players, but due to its replay value and the limitless gameplay options Tropico 4 pays back the patient ones.
  17. Nov 20, 2011
    85
    A very good good game from Kalypso, not only very deep and satisfying in the simulation and strategy areas, but with a great atmosphere too.
  18. 82
    Tropico 4 is a well-crafted update that is subtly better in almost every respect, including more helpful guidance to total newcomers and a steady stream of in-game mini-missions to keep things interesting. That pesky save bug makes an unwelcome return though and really should have been dealt with by now, but that aside you will be lost in a tropical paradise.
User Score

Mixed or average reviews- based on 15 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 9
  2. Negative: 1 out of 9
  1. 8
    Although this is a lot like Tropico 4, the new additions really improve the game. The islands are brighter and bigger, and the new objective system really adds to the games challenge. If you loved Tropico 3, and don't mind that this game is more of the same with a few really nice additions, you won't be disappointed. Full Review »
  2. Being the first Tropico game I have played I cannot comment on how alike or unlike the previous games it is. However after playing other games that are similar to this I can honestly say this is up there with my favourites. I played the demo first and this then prompted me to rent it, I'm now contemplating buying it which doesn't happen very often. This game is challenging but at the right level, so that it is never too hard or too easy. The objective system is implemented cleverly giving you a range of optional and forced objectives. This is great as you can complete the forced objectives to win the level, however you can also complete the optional objectives to enrich your experience. There are also objectives which occur because of your actions (edicts, constructions etc...) I think these are some of the harder objectives but they can help a lot. I would say that this game is great, but i would reccomend renting or playing the demo before buying. Full Review »
  3. While I do not usually approve if a company slaps a new coat of paint and a few tweaks to a game and sells it as new, this is not the case with Tropico 4. On the surface it appears to be an "updated" Tropico 3. The game has taken a complete overhaul on the Xbox 360 with almost every aspect working way better than before. The roadways build correctly, the quick-build option can help immensely, and the new buildings completely change the game. The old structures function largely the same with a few notable improvements, such as roadway access for some buildings or the ability to upgrade Tenements with A/C. The improvements to the game are vast but you are likely to not notice at first. Do yourself a favor and buy Tropico 4. In about 3ish hours when you get done with your game, you'll be thanking me. Full Review »