In the wake of the success of Stardew Valley, many developers have attempted to create their own entries in the pixelated farming simulator genre. Discounty takes an opposing stance by placing players in the role of a corporate overseer rather than a struggling farmer. Instead of nurturing a small farm, players are thrust into the shoes of the owner of a big-brand supermarket that seeks to monopolize the economy of the struggling town of Blomkest.
After being lured by your aunt to help run her market, players soon discover that she has sold out to the Discounty chain, turning the market into a corporate behemoth. As the new manager, your job is to charm locals into abandoning their traditional vendors in favor of your supermarket to boost profits. This premise offers a unique twist on the genre but is riddled with a sense of moral discomfort as players grapple with their complicity in dismantling the local economy.
While the story hints at the struggle between corporate greed and local community values, it ultimately fails to deliver a coherent message. Your character often shirks responsibility and ignores the repercussions of their actions, as the narrative props them up as a savior instead of addressing the damage they inflict on the town. Displeased locals express their grievances, yet the game glosses over these criticisms, allowing players to continue their capitalist pursuits without meaningful consequences.
Despite these issues, the gameplay mechanics remain engaging. Players will find satisfaction in frantically managing stocks, dealing with dirty floors, and optimizing customer service to improve efficiency and sales. As the store expands, new challenges arise, such as meeting quotas and establishing relationships with suppliers, keeping the game fresh and fulfilling.
Exploring Blomkest and interacting with its quirky residents adds charm to the experience, though conversations can feel repetitive over time. The game also introduces various mysteries in the town, like hidden secrets tied to your aunt, enhancing the narrative with fun distractions.
Ultimately, Discounty presents an intriguing premise that dances around significant themes but lacks the depth to fully explore the moral implications of its story. Even as players may feel like the villains of their own tale, the addictive gameplay loop provides a sense of accomplishment and encourages them to continue pursuing success within the supermarket empire.
