Fun for 30 seconds and then you wonder why they didn't just build an actual game on top.

Townscaper is a beautiful, clever, and very tastefully made game. It has a wonderful atmosphere, pleasant colors, charming architecture, and I completely understand why so many people experience it as relaxing.

Unfortunately, for me it is almost unplayable because of the grid itself. It is neither regular enough for me to build with a sense of order, nor organic enough for me to accept it as a natural shape. It is always “almost” aligned, “almost” symmetrical, “almost” harmonious — and that creates a strange spatial uncanny valley for me.

I do not see this as a flaw in the game. More as a note for people who are more sensitive to symmetry, axes, rhythm, and spatial coherence. If the irregular grid does not bother you, Townscaper can be a lovely relaxing experience. But if your mind needs a clearer sense of order, it may surprisingly end up stressing you out instead.

For me, it is a beautiful game I would really like to love, but its geometry simply will not let me.

pretty game, and fun to kill a few hours. just missing something