Vice Thief Simulator: 80s Nostalgia is the type of game I was really looking forward to. I often play these kinds of simulation games. And on top of that, it has a great 80s theme, a theme I absolutely love! The 1980s were known for their amazing synth music, flashy neon colors, and arcades! This is an action simulation game designed and published by Oddi Tycoon.
A Promising Idea
The way they describe the game is exactly what pulls me in. While playing, you dive into the neon-lit 80s and become a cunning thief. You break into houses and steal valuable items. You also hijack cars and have to escape from the police. To do this more effectively, you upgrade your skills and gear and try to survive in a world where only the boldest criminals make it. Your goal is actually very simple: get rich. Enjoy a world set in the 1980s and don’t get caught. One wrong move and the police are right behind you. You can lose the cops quickly and easily. For example, by throwing a bottle so they go investigate the noise. Or by setting off a car alarm. Are they still chasing you? Just run. Slalom a bit through narrow alleys and you lose them.
I have to say, I do like the 80s style, but it doesn’t fully pop. On top of that, this game is literally a copy of other games. The lockpicking is exactly the same as in other titles. Simple locks open quickly, but the ones hiding more expensive loot are better protected (no shit, Sherlock). You can open those by upgrading your tools. It’s also possible to steal cars. You break in and drive off without being noticed. Deliver it to the correct drop-off point and you get cash. You can also sell items at pawn shops. These are items you can carry, like valuable watches or rare electronics.
Early Access Reality Check
But let’s get straight to the point. The game only costs 4 euros and is still in Early Access. And unfortunately, that’s very noticeable. The game doesn’t feel finished and feels a bit like a demo made by a student in their attic. In principle, the game does have potential, but I personally don’t feel like this game will ever truly be finished. It feels like a hobby project that people will quickly forget. The developers themselves state: “We plan to release the game in Early Access to gather feedback on core mechanics such as burglary, car theft, and police chases. Player input will help us balance difficulty, refine stealth, and create the most authentic 80s-inspired experience possible.”
That does sound like a promise that could genuinely improve the game. Still, I was done with it pretty quickly. After about an hour, I was bored. You get tired of it very fast. As I mentioned before, the game doesn’t feel finished and clearly has flaws. When I first started the game, it felt a bit like something inspired by GTA: Vice City, but you definitely shouldn’t compare it to that. I also found myself more annoyed by the police (especially the way they patrol) than actually entertained.
Final Thoughts
I really do think the game could be enjoyable if they go back to the drawing board and actually listen to the community. Maybe it’s time they take a look at how “the bigger brother” of this genre is designed. And don’t get me wrong: I did have some fun, so don’t think I played the game with disgust. But after an hour, I was just completely done with it. This game is mainly meant for simulator gamers who want to give developers a chance.
I genuinely encourage those players to try the game and send feedback to the developer. And honestly, it only costs 4 euros, so… who really cares.
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