Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic

Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic is a city-building and logistics management simulation game developed by the Slovakian studio 3Division and published by Hooded Horse. The game was first released in early access on March 15, 2019, and officially launched its full version on June 20, 2024. It is available exclusively for Microsoft Windows on platforms such as Steam, GOG, and the Epic Games Store.

Set between the 1960s and 1990s, Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic immerses players in the role of a socialist republic leader, tasked with managing a planned economy. The game emphasizes detailed logistics, requiring players to oversee everything from resource extraction and manufacturing to transportation and public services. Players must balance the needs of their citizens, including health and happiness, with the demands of industrial growth and political stability. The game offers both populated and empty maps, allowing for varied gameplay experiences.

Promotion for the game included showcasing its unique blend of city-building and political simulation at gaming conventions and through digital platforms. The game's focus on the intricacies of a planned economy and its setting in a socialist context distinguished it from other city-building games, attracting players interested in more complex and historically grounded simulations.

Upon its full release, Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic received generally positive reviews from both critics and players. The game's depth and attention to detail were praised, with many highlighting its realistic approach to logistics and resource management. However, some players noted the steep learning curve and the game's complexity as potential barriers for newcomers. Despite these challenges, the game developed a dedicated community of players who appreciated its depth and realism.

The game's development faced challenges, including a temporary removal from Steam in early 2023 due to a DMCA takedown related to a fan-created mod. The issue was resolved by March 2023, and the game returned to the platform. Since its full release, the game has seen additional content updates, including downloadable content (DLC) that expands the game's maps and introduces new gameplay elements.

Looking ahead, Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic continues to evolve, with ongoing updates and community engagement. Its unique approach to city-building and resource management has set it apart in the genre, and it remains a notable example of a simulation game that combines historical context with complex gameplay mechanics.