Schedule 1 compared to DDS? - Steam Community Discussion

Source: Schedule 1 compared to DDS? - Steam Community

Original Post

Posted by: Coyote
Date: Mar 25 @ 6:59pm

Feel free to pipe in with your own opinions. I've seen some negative reviews and comments in the discussions saying Schedule 1 is a rip-off of Drug Dealer Simulator (DDS). While this is a minority opinion, I think it's kind of an insult to the game and its developer, since it's just one guy.

In my opinion, Schedule 1 offers a much more fun and satisfying gameplay loop than DDS, all while having an art style and world that doesn't take itself too seriously. The fact that one person made this game honestly earns brownie points from me, especially when it's a good game.

It might borrow some aspects from DDS, but Schedule 1 nails the fun factor. It's fine to have more loyalty toward one product over another (pun intended). DDS was the first real drug sim (as far as I'm aware), so I think DDS walked so Schedule 1 could run. Again, just my opinion.

The Schedule 1 Free Sample demo was awesome, and while I'm only a couple of hours into the full game with a friend, I've seen enough to know this is an awesome game.

Community Responses

Key Differences Between Schedule 1 and DDS

1. Gameplay Loop: Many players agree that Schedule 1 offers a more enjoyable and satisfying gameplay loop compared to DDS. The mechanics feel more streamlined and engaging.

2. Art Style: Schedule 1 features a distinctive art style that doesn't take itself too seriously, creating a more approachable atmosphere compared to DDS's more realistic approach.

3. Multiplayer Implementation: Schedule 1's cooperative multiplayer is highlighted as a significant advantage over DDS, allowing friends to build a drug empire together.

4. Developer Approach: The fact that Schedule 1 was created by a single developer has impressed many players, especially considering the game's scope and quality.

5. Game Atmosphere: Schedule 1 maintains a lighthearted, sometimes humorous tone, while DDS tends to present a grittier, more serious simulation of drug dealing.

Innovation vs. Inspiration

The community discussion acknowledges that while Schedule 1 may have been inspired by DDS in some aspects, it brings enough innovation and quality-of-life improvements to stand as its own unique game. Many players point out that:

• Most games in a genre build upon concepts introduced by their predecessors
• Schedule 1 expands the drug dealer simulation concept with new mechanics and approaches
• The overall execution and fun factor matter more than being the first in a genre

Player Experience Comparisons

Players who have experienced both games note several advantages to Schedule 1:

• More intuitive controls and user interface
• Better balance between realism and enjoyable gameplay
• More diverse activities beyond the core drug dealing mechanics
• Less grinding and more meaningful progression
• More polished overall experience despite being in Early Access

Conclusion

The consensus from this community discussion is that while Drug Dealer Simulator pioneered the drug dealer simulation genre, Schedule 1 has successfully built upon that foundation to create a more enjoyable and accessible experience. The game stands on its own merits with unique features, art style, and gameplay mechanics that differentiate it from DDS.

Rather than viewing Schedule 1 as a copy of DDS, most players in the discussion see it as a natural evolution of the genre that improves upon many aspects of its predecessor. The impressive achievement of a solo developer creating such a comprehensive and enjoyable game further adds to the community's positive reception.

As one commenter summarized: "DDS walked so Schedule 1 could run."

Note: This summary is based on the Steam Community discussion as of April 2025.