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❤ Gameplay Overview

The player takes on the role of a drug dealer trying to make money by buying and selling various illegal substances in the fictional city of Starkham. The game is primarily text-based, with some simple graphics and animations, revolving around navigating the city and interacting with different characters to conduct their illicit business.

❤ Buying and Selling Drugs

Players start with a loan from a local loanshark and must use that initial capital to purchase drugs at lower prices in certain areas of Starkham, then sell them for a profit in other areas where the prices are higher. The drug prices fluctuate dynamically, so players must carefully monitor the market and time their purchases and sales accordingly. There are 16 different drugs available, ranging from cheaper substances like marijuana to more expensive and lucrative ones like cocaine. Maximizing profits means finding the right balance between buying low-cost drugs in bulk and riskier high-end narcotics.

❤ Movement and Exploration

While players cannot freely roam the city, they can travel between the 18 different locations in Starkham via the public transportation system. Each area has its own set of characters to interact with, including other drug dealers, potential customers, and law enforcement. Navigating the city and choosing where to buy and sell drugs is a core part of the strategy. Certain locations may offer better prices or be less risky in terms of police presence or rival gangs. Players have to weigh the tradeoffs and plan their movements carefully.

❤ Risk Management

The game incorporates various risk factors that players must manage. There is a constant threat of being caught by the police, who will confiscate the player's drugs and money. Rival drug dealers may also attempt to rob or assault the player. To mitigate these risks, players can invest in 35+ different weapons, hire 10 crew members as bodyguards, and use various tactics like hiding their drugs or avoiding certain areas. Managing the balance between risk and reward is essential for long-term success.

❤ Progression and Replayability

The game features 8 different game lengths, from a standard 15-day playthrough to an "Endless" mode. Players can also unlock new content and challenges, such as holiday-themed events or "hardcore" modes that introduce additional difficulty. The randomized nature of the drug prices, events, and other variables ensures that each playthrough feels fresh and encourages experimentation with different strategies. The wide range of possible outcomes, from successfully paying off the loanshark to becoming a local kingpin or even getting arrested, also contributes to the game's replayability.