Forum Discussion

3ceee7b46041b93's avatar
3ceee7b46041b93
2 years ago

Feature request - disable Gambling specialisation

I sent this suggestion to support a while ago but they said I should also post it here - forgot for a while but here we go:

I think there should be an option to disable the Gambling specialisation in the game, in much the same way as sporting apps have an option to not show any odds or betting/wagering triggers.

I don't think it would negatively impact anyone else if a player opted out of the Gambling specialisation, I just don't want speech balloons telling me to build a casino; and I'm willing to forfeit design challenges that require casinos. Ideally you could just swap for something else but I realise that would cause a balance issue with the PvP scoring element.

Playing games is a fun escape, and in the real world that I am escaping from I've seen a lot of harm caused by gambling. So it's not something I want in-game, it's not fun for me, and for people with a gambling problem it would be a lot healthier not to see gambling presented as a required element of a city.

This is not a call to remove the Gambling specialisation entirely, as it's something many people are able to do legally and without addiction. If it's fun for you to recreate Vegas, go for it! I just want the option to leave it out.

I guess if you agree, give it a Me Too. 

7 Replies

  • 3ceee7b46041b93's avatar
    3ceee7b46041b93
    2 years ago

    >  there aren’t any actual gambling or wagers being made so there is no risk to anyone who is addicted to gambling


    With sports apps the actual gambling doesn't occur in the app either, but they recognise that prompting people to gamble is part of the problem and they provide an opt out. And there is harm from prompting and normalising gambling even if the wager isn't taken immediately after.

    > Ignore the speech balloons

    The game specifically nags you to start new specialisations, and the speech balloons give useful items and alert you to problems you need to fix - so no you can't really ignore them.

    > You should be in control of your own behaviour ultimately, no one is forcing you to play this game or to gamble or any other action.

    Compulsive gamblers can't stop, that's why it's called things like "compulsive" or "problem" gambling.

    And I never said anyone was forcing me to play this game, I've suggested that the game would be better if it would stop nagging me to build a casino. Cities need power and water, they don't need gambling. The simulation would be fine without them. 

  • 3ceee7b46041b93's avatar
    3ceee7b46041b93
    2 years ago

    LOL replacing your original message hey? You really are taking this seriously.

  • Scoobyst2's avatar
    Scoobyst2
    2 years ago

    I understand where you’re coming from regarding turning off the Gambling specialization. Sometimes, those features can change the whole vibe of a game. It’s nice to have options that cater to different styles of play. Not everyone is into gambling mechanics, and it can feel out of place for those who just want a straightforward gaming experience.
    It would be great if developers could provide a toggle for that feature so players can customize their experience based on what they enjoy most. If you’re looking for some gaming communities that discuss topics like this, you might want to check out https://themulligans.org . It’s a friendly space where folks share ideas and suggestions about games.

  • GrumpyBedlam's avatar
    GrumpyBedlam
    Seasoned Ace
    2 years ago

    You don't object to wars though or religion or pride being forced upon us? 

  • Paradise242's avatar
    Paradise242
    2 years ago

    Interesting suggestion and should have some consideration, the option should be considered as well for other ‘ things’ that bother other players. I do like how you proposed your suggestion, as such, and not as a demand that would affect everyone else if implemented’.

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