0 
0 Games Incubator is back with its newest simulation game, Pets Hotel. As it suggests in the name, you become the owner and manager of your very own pet hotel. Originally, the PC version of this game was released in April 2023. However, after positive reviews, Games Incubator has dipped its paws into the PlayStation realm.
Will your hotel be paw-some?
Pets Hotel is now available to buy on the PlayStation Store for £17.99. However, as previously stated, you can also buy it on Steam if you are more of a PC player!
Gameplay
Before we get into the core of the game, the best way to learn all about this game is through the tutorials. These tutorials give you the tools that you need to ensure that you can run your pet hotel. This includes teaching the player how to take bookings, care for the animals, as well as how to effectively manage the hotel. I know some people like to skip them, preferring to figure things out on their own. However, for this it is worthwhile to complete the tutorials
Within the Pets Hotel, there are two game modes available. The first is the challenge mode. This is where you take over from a management team who have put down their tools and have decided they do not wish to own the hotel. Because they’ve left, the pets are not in the best condition. It is now your job to give them the proper care and love that they deserve. Everything within this mode costs money. This means you will need to be careful. This is particularly difficult at the beginning of the challenge, due to the state the pets are left in.
The second mode is free play. You can design and customise the layout of your hotel however you desire. The doors open under your say-so. You are hands-on from the beginning, meaning the pets will be well cared for.
Pets Galore!
Once you have selected your hotel and customised it to how you wish, you can begin taking bookings. Owners will contact you with the number of days needed, as well as the type of animal. Here, you can accept or decline, this being depending on whether you have space.
The main part of the game, of course, comes from taking care of the animals. This can be ‘bigger’ animals, such as cats or dogs. Or even ‘smaller’ animals, such as fish and turtles. All the guests have different needs, which the owner will make you aware of. It is your job to ensure that you meet their basic needs. This includes making sure that they are fed and watered, that they have plenty of pets, the ability to use the toilet, and being kept entertained.
To do this, you will need to make use of your tablet. The tablet is used for a multitude of things throughout the game. Firstly, it is used to tell you any details about the pets staying at your hotel. This is particularly helpful when feeding the animals. Some animals are allergic to certain types of food. In addition to this, the tablet is also your store. You can buy things such as food to help care for the animals.
There will also be a multitude of people who can help you achieve your dream of having the best pet hotel. Firstly, you can hire staff. These can be used on reception or to help care for the animals. Then, there is also the vet, groomer and massage therapist. These are called on demand, and will visit the hotel when required.
Graphics
For an indie game, the model of the animals is fantastic. There is a variety of different breads, especially for the likes of cats, fish and dogs. Turtles and rabbits, however, have 3-4 different colour variations. There is also plenty of variety regarding the design of your hotel. Using the tablet, you can customize. This includes choosing wallpaper and flooring, but also the furniture. There is not an overwhelming number of different options. But there is enough to offer variety.
The only thing that I would like to see improved is the animations. Sometimes, these can take too long. Other times, they can also cause graphical glitches. It did not happen often. But it was enough for me to remember.
Longevity
With any type of simulation game, the playtime is completely dependent on the player. I love simulation games, and when they also have adorable pets, why wouldn’t I want to continue playing? I think there is certainly enough within the game to keep you drawn in.
Final Thoughts
Overall, I think Pets Hotel is a good addition to the simulation genre. I was immediately drawn to the game due to my love of animals, and the game hasn’t disappointed. There are a couple of tweaks that I think could be made that I have covered, however, in terms of overall enjoyment, I think Pets Hotel has done well.
Therefore, Pets Hotel receives the Thumb Culture Gold Award. 
Disclaimer: A code was received in order to write this review.
YouTube | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Discord | Podcast
About Author
