Outpost Kaloki X makes no attempts at trying to look like more than it really is; a deceptively simple, yet highly addictive tycoon game. Gameplay is broken up into various scenarios, each with a very simple story. Some are grouped into short story arcs, while others are stand-alone missions. The stories aren’t exactly gripping pieces of fiction, but do a good job of getting you from place to place, which is about all you can expect. Additional scenarios are planned (one is already available) for download which should offer additional replay value.
Though each plot of each scenario is different, each revolves around the same basic principle. You are an unnamed hero put in charge of various outposts scattered throughout the galaxy. Outposts come equipped with ports that serve as foundations for your businesses. Ports can be equipped with various stations that provide different services for travelers that represent aspects of life such as information, food, and society. You’ll begin with simple stations and eventually move up to more complex (and more expensive) businesses as you progress. Some stations will even require that you build certain other stations to get an upgraded one, such as needing an herb garden and malt shop to build a restaurant. Since you’re limited in the number of ports available on each station, you’ll have to constantly juggle the building and demolition of stations in order to get where you’re going, adding to the strategy of running a successful outpost.
Expansions come with a set of statistics that show how useful each is. Some are fixed while others can be adjusted to suit your needs. For instance, you can choose to offer a particular product in order to up your appeal, generating more business for an outpost. Of course, the better your product, the more you’ll have to pay in upkeep costs, so there is a trade-off. You’ll also have to factor in things like repair costs and keeping your customer’s attention, so finding that right balance is key to success.
If Outpost Kaloki X has any major flaws, it is that it's a one-trick pony. Managing outposts is fun and addictive, but it does become repetitive, so unless you’re really into tycoon games you probably won’t play Outpost Kaloki X for long stints. Normally this would be a bigger issue, but given the low price and it’s classification as a Live Arcade game, this is a forgivable offense.
