Airport Simulator 2019 Review Summary

Last updated: 2026-03-02
  • Innovative game idea with variety in tasks.
  • Good graphics and realistic simulation elements.
  • Fun gameplay with large and busy airport.
  • Game plagued by bugs and frequent crashes.
  • Boring and repetitive gameplay with vehicle issues.
  • Poor graphics, controls, and AI behavior.
Airport Simulator 2019 header

Emotions

Archetypes

What players like:

Common complaints:

Gameplay feedback:

Performance notes:

Recommendations:

Other player notes:

Review evidence

Why players say this

What players like

Good graphics: The game features graphics that are generally well-received, considered good, and appropriate for the price point.

Variety in tasks and vehicles: The game offers a range of different tasks and vehicles to drive, adding to its appeal.

Innovative game idea: The concept of the game is praised as a great and original idea, showing promise within its genre.

Positive overall impression: The general sentiment is that the game is liked and seen as having potential, though it is considered just okay by some.

Vehicle mechanics: Vehicles in the game can be steered and require maintenance, adding a layer of realism and management.

Common complaints

Poor graphics and controls: Many reviews criticized the game's graphics as outdated and poorly implemented. Additionally, the controls, especially for vehicles, were described as subpar and difficult to manage.

Game plagued by bugs: Numerous players reported a high frequency of bugs and glitches, significantly impacting the gameplay experience. These issues range from minor inconveniences to game-breaking problems.

Boring and repetitive gameplay: Players found the gameplay to be monotonous and repetitive, with tasks lacking variety and excitement. This led to a general sense of disappointment and boredom.

Vehicle issues and slow speed: Vehicles in the game were reported to be slow and poorly handled, with issues such as driving through obstacles and erratic movements. Players also noted the inability to repair vehicles, which degraded over time.

Game crashes and freezes: Several players experienced frequent game crashes and freezes, making the game unplayable at times. This issue was a significant detractor from the overall experience.

Gameplay and performance

Driving and vehicle tasks: A significant portion of the gameplay involves driving various vehicles to complete tasks. Players mention driving from point A to point B and performing tasks involving driving and loading.

Staff and vehicle management: Players frequently mention the hiring, training, and management of staff and vehicles as key gameplay elements. This includes purchasing and managing a fleet of vehicles and personnel.

Airport management simulation: The game is often described as an airport management simulation, where players manage various airport services and tasks. This includes overseeing the entire airport and its operations.

Vehicle maintenance and upgrades: Players highlight vehicle wear and tear, maintenance, and upgrades as important aspects. This includes facilitating maintenance on the fleet and upgrading vehicles.

Mixed feelings on gameplay: Players have mixed feelings about the gameplay, with some finding it boring or repetitive, while others enjoy the management aspects and hands-on gameplay.

Frequent bugs and crashes: Many players report experiencing a high number of bugs and frequent game crashes, which significantly disrupt the gameplay experience.

Game stability and freezing: While some players report a stable game, others experience frequent freezing, indicating inconsistent performance across different systems.

Frame rate and optimization: There are reports of occasional frame rate drops and optimization issues, suggesting that the game may not run smoothly on all hardware configurations.

Specific gameplay bugs: Players have encountered specific bugs such as fleets going through hangar doors and ground marker registration issues, which affect gameplay mechanics.

Lost saved game progress: A significant issue reported is the loss of saved game progress, which can be frustrating for players who have invested time into the game.

Recommendations

Add management features: Players want more management features such as managing the cash register, waiting room, and shops.

Create varied scenarios: Players want the game to include different scenarios and varied tasks.

Not recommended for purchase: Some players advise against buying the game due to various issues.

Add baggage handling: Players request the ability to load and unload baggage from planes.

Add plane refueling: Players want the option to refuel planes as part of the gameplay.

Buying context

Community fair range: $5.00 - $10.00.

Game completion: 44.0h.

Story completion: 6.0h.

Session length: 1.5h.

The game starts off boring and repetitive but becomes more enjoyable around Level 4, indicating a delayed onset of fun.

Reported time to anchor: 2h.

Friction: Repetitive tasks; Boring start; Dull gameplay.

Player profiles

Repetition-Averse Player: Prefers games with diverse tasks and minimal repetition. Motivation: Seeking variety and excitement in gameplay. Stance: no buy.

Quality-Conscious Player: Prefers well-developed games with high replay value. Motivation: Seeking high-quality and engaging gaming experiences. Stance: no buy.

Strategy-Focused Player: Prefers games with strategic depth and time-based challenges. Motivation: Enjoys strategic planning and time management in gameplay. Stance: sale.

Platform notes

Steam Deck: The Steam Deck experience for this game is marred by significant control issues, with many users describing the controls as a nightmare. Additionally, there are reports of bugs and stability issues, as well as usability problems like small text and camera controls. These issues collectively degrade the user experience and require attention to improve overall satisfaction.

Other review notes

Game purchased at discounted price: The player bought the game during a sale at a reduced price of $4.99.

Unplayed games from publisher: The player has purchased other games from the same publisher but has not played them.