Back in May, I had the opportunity to check out Hotel Architect from developers Pathos Interactive. As it was still in early access at the time, a score wasn't given, but I thoroughly enjoyed my experience with the game. Although still in early access, Hotel Architect has maintained its momentum with weekly challenges, frequent smaller updates and bug fixes, and a major content drop in late June that introduced the New York map. 

Now launching Tuesday September 2nd, Hotel Architect brings the Las Vegas update. Las Vegas is the 6th location added to the Hotel Architect world map. Taking community feedback into consideration, Pathos Interactive is adding destination features that players have been asking for. 

Casinos

What's Vegas without a little gambling? Players can now design and manage their own casino floors with the addition of 5 different gaming tables and slots. While casino zones don't directly impact your hotel's star rating, they're a great way to enhance the look of your property and bring in some extra income on the side.

A new staff type has also been added to the mix. Croupiers can be hired to run your gaming tables. Be careful though, some staff skill types can help or hinder your profit. For example, hiring a hypnotist may keep players at the tables longer, increasing your overall earnings. On the other hand, a swindler will secretly take a "cut" for themselves and reduce your profits. 

Gaming tables also require a minimum cash deposit to operate. Meaning, you have to have enough money in the machine for guests to win. Cash deposits depend on betting size, and the higher ranked the guest, the higher the bet has to be for them to even play the game. Although setting up a casino requires an upfront investment, you can double your earnings... if you play your cards right.

New Decor & Items

The casino update also brings a variety of new decorative items to give your hotel that true Vegas flair. Customize your space with themed decor and complete scenario objectives to unlock four decor items. Go the extra mile with bonus objectives, and you can unlock up to 20 new items, including everything from on theme decorations to fun outfits for staff and guests.

New Financing Options & Goals

 Hotel Architect is upping the ante when it comes to difficulty. The Las Vegas update gives you 3 different choices of start up money. The more money you take upfront, the tougher the challenge will be to pay it back. Since Hotel Architect doesn't follow the "only one way to play" approach, players have the freedom to shape their own playstyle. This also gives players a chance to return for a fresh experience with a different strategy.

Even with this new update, Hotel Architect still sits in the early access category and that is not a bad thing by ANY means.  In just over three and a half months since its release, Pathos Interactive has already delivered one, soon to be two, major updates. While many early access games risk losing player interest once the initial content is done, Hotel Architect keeps players engaged. The steady stream of updates and clear developer commitment to content as well as listening to feedback draws excitement to what's coming next. 

The Las Vegas update for Hotel Architect drops Tuesday, September 2nd. 

Hotel Architect is available for early access on Steam for PC for $19.99 USD.

Thanks to Pathos Interactive for early access to the update for purpose of this review.