# Biotope

> 2019 early access video game

**Wikidata**: [Q122821936](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q122821936)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/biotope-q122821936

## Summary
Biotope is a 2019 early access video game that blends casual, simulation, and strategy genres, allowing players to design and manage virtual aquariums. Developed for Microsoft Windows and macOS, it is distributed exclusively through Steam by publisher 2tainment, offering a single-player experience with support for English and German languages.

## Key Facts
- Released in early access on **July 23, 2019**, exclusively via Steam.
- Classified as a **casual game**, **simulation video game**, and **strategy video game**.
- Available on **Microsoft Windows** and **macOS** platforms.
- Supports **single-player mode** only.
- Published by **2tainment** and distributed digitally through **Steam** (Steam App ID: **549040**).
- Supports **English** and **German** language options.
- Business model: **early access** (as of June 5, 2024).
- Listed in multiple gaming databases, including:
  - **RAWG** (ID: `biotope`)
  - **MobyGames** (ID: `130403`)
  - **HowLongToBeat** (ID: `80670`)
  - **PCGamingWiki** (ID: `Biotope`, article ID: `130492`)
  - **IGDB** (ID: `biotope-aquarium-simulator`, game ID: `115812`)
  - **SteamGridDB** (ID: `81795`)
  - **VGLIST** (ID: `78073`)
  - **GameSpot** (ID: `biotope`)
  - **Playground.ru** (ID: `biotope`)
  - **Lutris** (ID: `biotope`)
  - **GamerProfiles** (ID: `5w24X`)
  - **IsThereAnyDeal** (ID: `biotope`)

## FAQs

**What type of game is Biotope?**
Biotope is a hybrid video game combining elements of casual gameplay, simulation, and strategy, focused on aquarium management and design.

**On which platforms can I play Biotope?**
The game is available for **Microsoft Windows** and **macOS**, distributed digitally through **Steam**.

**Is Biotope a single-player or multiplayer game?**
Biotope is exclusively a **single-player video game** with no multiplayer or cooperative modes.

**What languages does Biotope support?**
The game supports **English** and **German** as its primary language options.

**When was Biotope released, and is it still in early access?**
Biotope was first released in **early access on July 23, 2019**, and as of **June 5, 2024**, it remains in early access on Steam.

**Who publishes Biotope?**
The game is published by **2tainment** and distributed via **Steam**.

**Where can I find more information or reviews about Biotope?**
Biotope is listed in multiple gaming databases, including **RAWG**, **MobyGames**, **HowLongToBeat**, **PCGamingWiki**, **IGDB**, and **GameSpot**, where players can find reviews, gameplay details, and community discussions.

## Why It Matters
Biotope fills a niche in the simulation genre by offering a relaxed yet strategic aquarium-building experience, appealing to both casual gamers and enthusiasts of management simulations. Its early access model allows for continuous development based on player feedback, fostering a community-driven evolution. As a digitally distributed title, it exemplifies the growing trend of indie games leveraging platforms like Steam to reach global audiences without traditional publishing barriers. The game’s focus on aquatic ecosystems also provides an educational element, introducing players to the complexities of maintaining balanced biotopes.

## Notable For
- Being one of the few **aquarium-focused simulation games** available in early access.
- Supporting **cross-platform play** on both Windows and macOS via Steam.
- Offering a **hybrid gameplay experience** that merges casual, simulation, and strategy elements.
- Maintaining an **active early access development cycle** since its 2019 launch.
- Presence in **multiple major gaming databases**, indicating broad recognition in the indie gaming community.

## Body

### Overview and Genre
Biotope is a **2019 early access video game** that allows players to design, build, and manage virtual aquariums. It is categorized under three primary genres:
- **Casual game**: Accessible gameplay suitable for relaxed or short sessions.
- **Simulation video game**: Focuses on realistic aquarium management mechanics.
- **Strategy video game**: Requires planning and resource management to maintain ecosystem balance.

The game’s hybrid nature appeals to a broad audience, from players seeking a creative outlet to those interested in strategic challenges.

### Platforms and Distribution
Biotope is available exclusively through **Steam** (Steam App ID: **549040**) and supports two operating systems:
- **Microsoft Windows**
- **macOS**

The game employs a **digital distribution** model, eliminating the need for physical media. As of **June 5, 2024**, it remains in **early access**, allowing developers to refine features based on community feedback.

### Game Modes and Languages
Biotope is a **single-player video game**, with no multiplayer or online cooperative modes. It supports two language options:
- **English**
- **German**

This localization ensures accessibility for players in German-speaking regions and English-speaking markets.

### Development and Publishing
The game is published by **2tainment**, a publisher known for supporting indie and simulation titles. Its early access release on **July 23, 2019**, marked its debut, and it has since undergone iterative updates. The **Steam platform** serves as its sole distribution channel, leveraging Valve’s infrastructure for updates, community engagement, and digital rights management.

### Database and Community Presence
Biotope is indexed in numerous gaming databases, reflecting its recognition within the indie and simulation gaming communities:
- **RAWG** (ID: `biotope`): A gaming discovery platform.
- **MobyGames** (ID: `130403`): A comprehensive game database.
- **HowLongToBeat** (ID: `80670`): Tracks gameplay duration metrics.
- **PCGamingWiki** (ID: `Biotope`, article ID: `130492`): Provides technical details and fixes.
- **IGDB (Internet Game Database)** (ID: `biotope-aquarium-simulator`, game ID: `115812`): A structured game metadata repository.
- **SteamGridDB** (ID: `81795`): Hosts custom game artwork and assets.
- **VGLIST** (ID: `78073`): A Russian gaming database.
- **GameSpot** (ID: `biotope`): A major gaming media outlet.
- **Playground.ru** (ID: `biotope`): A Russian gaming community platform.
- **Lutris** (ID: `biotope`): A Linux gaming platform.
- **GamerProfiles** (ID: `5w24X`): A social platform for gamers.
- **IsThereAnyDeal** (ID: `biotope`): A price-tracking service for games.

These listings facilitate discovery, reviews, and community discussions, contributing to the game’s visibility.

### Technical and Reference Details
Biotope’s technical identifiers and references include:
- **Steam Application ID**: `549040` (with qualifiers for Windows and macOS).
- **Publication Date**: July 23, 2019 (early access).
- **Business Model**: Early access (confirmed as of June 5, 2024).
- **Distribution Format**: Digital distribution via Steam.

The game’s metadata is frequently updated across platforms, with the most recent references dated as late as **June 2024** (e.g., VGTimes, Playground.ru) and projected updates in **2025–2026** (e.g., GameSpot, IGDB).

### Unique Features and Gameplay
While specific gameplay mechanics are not detailed in the source material, Biotope’s blend of **casual, simulation, and strategy** suggests a focus on:
- **Creative freedom** in aquarium design.
- **Ecosystem management**, requiring players to balance factors like fish species, water chemistry, and habitat aesthetics.
- **Strategic decision-making**, such as resource allocation and long-term planning.

The early access model implies ongoing feature expansions, potentially including new aquatic species, decorative elements, or advanced management tools.

### Community and Reception
As an early access title, Biotope relies heavily on player feedback to shape its development. The game’s presence on **Steam** enables direct interaction between developers and players through forums, reviews, and update logs. While no explicit reception data is provided, its inclusion in multiple gaming databases suggests a steady, if niche, following among simulation enthusiasts.

### Related Entities
- **2tainment**: The publisher responsible for Biotope’s release and ongoing support.
- **Steam**: The digital distribution platform hosting the game, providing updates, community features, and DRM.
- **Gaming Databases**: Platforms like MobyGames, IGDB, and PCGamingWiki that catalog and review the game, aiding in its discoverability.

### Future Prospects
Given its early access status, Biotope’s future likely includes:
- **Full release** with additional content and polished mechanics.
- **Potential expansions** into new biomes, fish species, or gameplay modes.
- **Community-driven updates**, incorporating player suggestions for quality-of-life improvements or new features.

The game’s longevity will depend on its ability to retain player interest through meaningful updates and engagement.

## References

1. Steam
2. GameSpot
3. Q124398839