Released on March 24, 2025, Schedule I is an open-world crime simulator developed by Tyler’s Video Game Studio (TVGS). Set in the fictional city of Hyland Point, the game allows players to build and expand a drug trafficking empire, starting from humble beginnings and progressing to a large-scale operation. With its engaging gameplay mechanics, dark humor, and co-op multiplayer mode, Schedule I has quickly gained popularity, amassing over 131,000 positive reviews on Steam.
1. Game Overview
Setting and Premise
In Schedule I, players assume the role of a small-time drug dealer who arrives in Hyland Point with nothing but an RV and a desire to succeed. The game begins with the cultivation of marijuana, but as players progress, they can manufacture and distribute more potent substances like methamphetamine and cocaine. The ultimate goal is to build a vast empire, managing production, distribution, and dealing with law enforcement and rival cartels.
Gameplay Mechanics
The game features a first-person perspective, allowing players to immerse themselves in the role of a drug dealer. Players can grow and harvest various drugs, manage inventory, negotiate deals, and expand their operations by purchasing properties and hiring employees. The inclusion of mini-games adds depth to the crafting and production processes, making them more engaging.
2. Development and Release
Early Access Launch
Schedule I was released in early access on March 24, 2025. The developers have committed to providing substantial content updates over the next few years, with plans to expand the map, introduce more drugs and production processes, and enhance the overall gameplay experience.
Community Engagement
The developers actively involve the community in the game’s development process through forums and a Discord server. They gather feedback on updates and frequently poll the community to determine the direction of future content.
3. Gameplay Features
Drug Production and Distribution
Players can produce a range of drugs, each with its unique production process. They can also discover special recipes to create new drug variants with unique properties. Distribution involves negotiating deals and delivering products to customers, all while managing the risks associated with law enforcement and rival cartels.
Business Management
As players progress, they can purchase properties and businesses to launder money and expand their operations. Hiring employees such as dealers, cooks, and botanists helps automate production and distribution, allowing players to focus on strategic decisions.
4. Co-Op Multiplayer Mode
Collaborative Gameplay
Schedule I offers a co-op multiplayer mode, enabling players to team up with friends to build and manage their drug empire together. This mode enhances the gameplay experience by allowing for shared responsibilities and strategies.
Community Feedback
The multiplayer mode has been well-received, with players praising the cooperative gameplay and the ability to strategize with friends. The developers continue to refine this mode based on community feedback.
5. Visual and Audio Design
Art Style
The game features a stylized art design, with environments and characters that evoke a gritty, urban atmosphere. The visual style contributes to the game’s immersive experience, drawing players into the world of Hyland Point.
Soundtrack and Audio
The soundtrack complements the game’s tone, with music that enhances the atmosphere of the various locations within the city. Sound effects are well-designed, adding realism to actions such as drug production and interactions with NPCs.
6. Reception and Popularity
Steam Reviews
Upon its release, Schedule I received overwhelmingly positive reviews on Steam, with 98% of over 131,000 user reviews being favorable. Players have praised the game’s engaging mechanics, humor, and depth.
Streaming and Social Media
The game’s popularity has been bolstered by livestreams on platforms like Twitch and TikTok, where influencers and players share their experiences, attracting a wider audience.
7. Legal and Ethical Considerations
Content and Themes
Schedule I depicts the simplified production, distribution, and sale of illegal drugs, along with non-realistic violence in the form of melee and firearm combat. The developers have provided a mature content description to inform potential players of the game’s themes.
Community Discussions
The game’s content has sparked discussions within the gaming community regarding its portrayal of illegal activities. While some players appreciate the game’s dark humor and satire, others express concerns about its potential impact on perceptions of drug-related issues.
8. Future Updates and Roadmap
Planned Features
The developers have outlined plans for future updates, including the expansion of the game world, the introduction of additional drugs and production processes, and the enhancement of business management systems. These updates aim to provide a more comprehensive and immersive gameplay experience.
Community Involvement
The developers continue to engage with the community to gather feedback and suggestions for future content. This collaborative approach ensures that the game evolves in a direction that aligns with player interests and expectations.
9. Comparisons with Similar Games
Drug Dealer Simulator
Schedule I has drawn comparisons to other games in the drug-dealing simulator genre, such as Drug Dealer Simulator. While both games share similar themes, Schedule I distinguishes itself with its stylized art design, engaging mini-games, and co-op multiplayer mode.
