Destinate

Tycoon games are among the most iconic and replayable experiences on Roblox. They tap into a universal drive—start small, build smart, and grow big. And for tourism brands, these mechanics are a dream: resorts, destinations, hotels, airports, even cruise ships can all be gamified with Tycoon-style play.

This edition breaks down 5 of the most successful branded Tycoon games, analyzes their mechanics, and shows how tourism brands can adapt the formula to bring their destinations to life.

What Makes Tycoon Games So Addictive?

The core gameplay loop:

1. Start small – a basic resort, shop, or business.
2. Generate revenue – complete tasks, attract visitors, grow traffic.
3. Upgrade – unlock new buildings, features, or entire zones.
4. Repeat – the satisfaction of scaling keeps players coming back.

Top 5 Tycoon Games on Roblox – and What We Can Learn from Them

1. Theme Park Tycoon 2

Developer: Den_S One of the most beloved classics on Roblox. Players build and manage a custom theme park with rides, restaurants, and scenery.

Best Practices:

• Let players personalize early and often
• Use milestones to unlock new land and features
• Progression should be visible and exciting

Tourism Angle: Resort destinations, cruise ships, and theme parks can use similar progression mechanics to simulate growth and engagement.

2. Resort Tycoon

Developer: Tycoon Tycoon Studios A tropical resort game where players manage and expand a beachfront hotel.

Best Practices:

• Break progress into clear upgrade paths (pool → restaurant → marina)
• Use visuals and sounds to reinforce luxury and escapism
• Keep the loop simple but satisfying

Tourism Angle: This is the closest current example of a travel-focused Tycoon game and a clear roadmap for hotels or resort brands.

3. Retail Tycoon 2

Developer: Secondhand Studios Run a full retail empire—from convenience store to superstore.

Best Practices:

• Deep inventory management adds challenge
• Realistic staff roles improve immersion
• Allow player choice in layout, design, and branding

Tourism Angle: Could easily translate into airport duty-free or luxury shopping center simulations.

4. Restaurant Tycoon 2

Developer: Ultraw Build and run a restaurant, hire chefs, expand your menu, and attract customers.

Best Practices:

• Great use of real-world cuisines & cultural details
• Social roleplay adds replayability
• Player customization fuels creativity

Tourism Angle: Ideal inspiration for destination dining, resort restaurants, or even celebrity chef partnerships.

5. Livetopia (Mall Tycoon Update)

Developer: Century Makers While technically an update to an RP game, this Tycoon-style addition lets players build, run, and shop in a mall environment.

Best Practices:

• Seamless integration of Tycoon and RP
• Built-in monetization through exclusive stores
• Constant events drive return visits

Tourism Angle: Perfect for showcasing shopping destinations, luxury retail, or travel brands focused on Gen Z fashion.

Design Tips for Tourism Brands Building Tycoon Games

Start Small, Scale Fast – Let players feel progress in the first 5–10 minutes

Unlockable Destinations– Reward players with new areas (beach club, ski lodge, desert spa)

Revenue + Experience Loops– Offer both visual upgrades and functional improvements

VIP Perks– Add status levels with exclusive lounges, vehicles, or travel packages

Mix UGC with Brand IP – Let players build their own experience within your branded world

Want to Learn More About Reach Gen Z Travelers via Roblox?

Roblox Tycoon games don’t just simulate travel—they train the next generation of tourists to dream, build, and share their journeys.

If you’re a hotel group, airline, theme park, or tourism board looking to innovate, there’s never been a better time to explore these platforms.

Want to brainstorm a concept? I’m offering a free 1-hour consultation for tourism brands. Just DM me here on LinkedIn.

Follow Destinate on LinkedIn for weekly insights on how Gen Z and Gen Alpha are reshaping travel, tourism, and destination marketing through immersive games and 3D platforms.