Hollywood Animal takes you back to the golden age of cinema—when “talkies” were still new, and major Hollywood studios were just beginning to rise. In this strategic business simulation, you step into the shoes of a movie studio CEO, managing your company from the dawn of sound cinema through the decades that follow. From red carpets and international film festivals to scandals, corruption, and power games behind the scenes, the game dives deep into the glamorous—and gritty—world of filmmaking.
Early Access Release and Development Plans
The game was recently launched in Early Access, allowing players to actively participate in its development from the start. After receiving valuable feedback during Steam Next Fest, developer Vipi Wholesome decided to continue the development journey in close cooperation with the community. According to the current roadmap, the final version of the game is expected by late 2025. Each update adds new events and features while improving performance and fixing bugs, bringing the game closer to a living, dynamic experience.
Studio Overview: A Cinematic Timeline in Acts
Hollywood Animal is divided into three main Acts, each representing a different era in film history. For now, Act 1, covering the first 20 years of sound cinema, is available. Most mechanics and historical events from this period are already implemented in near-final quality. Core gameplay elements include:
- Studio management: Choose film projects, hire directors and actors, budget production and marketing.
- Dynamic economy: Ticket prices, contracts, production costs, and revenue are influenced by your decisions.
- Historical events: Wars, social changes, artistic movements, and government censorship can all shape your path.
- Human drama: Addictions, scandals, secrets, and mental breakdowns affect your cast and crew—success depends on your ability to adapt and negotiate, not follow a formula.
Strategic Decisions: Power, Art, or Corruption?
One of the game’s most compelling features is how every decision matters. Will you build a blockbuster empire, cater to film festivals with artistic cinema, or dive into shady deals and underworld politics to crush your rivals? From signing a troublesome movie star to deciding whether to censor a controversial scene, every choice sets your company on a unique path.
The game does a great job of letting you explore different playstyles over long sessions. It encourages experimentation and multiple playthroughs, each with its own set of challenges and outcomes.
Human Resources and Tech Progression
Managing your studio workforce is another critical aspect. You’ll need to hire actors, directors, and writers—and keep them happy. If you fail to meet their expectations, they might leave for better offers. Over time, you’ll also witness the evolution of film technology. From black-and-white to color, from silent films to stereo sound, the passage of time brings new challenges and opportunities.
The game also highlights the importance of audience feedback. Your movies will receive reactions from both the public and critics. Some may win awards, while others flop. Releasing films at the right time and understanding current trends are key to boosting your chances of success.
Film Analysis and Reviews in Gameplay
Another interesting feature is the in-game film analysis system. Every project you greenlight can receive praise or criticism, influencing your studio’s reputation and financial performance. You’ll need to consider the artistic quality of your films as well as their commercial potential.
Time your releases strategically, choose the right genre, and target what the audience wants. As the cinematic landscape shifts, you must stay ahead or risk becoming outdated.
Final Thoughts: A Game Worth Watching
If you enjoy resource management, cinema history, and creative business simulation, Hollywood Animal offers a rich and rewarding experience. It’s more than just an economic sim—it’s a complex, gritty portrait of Hollywood’s golden (and not-so-golden) years.
While still in development, the game already shows impressive depth. With continued feedback from players, the final version is set to be even more detailed and immersive
