OIL.EXE: Retro Text-Based Petroleum Tycoon Simulation

8/22/2026, 6:04:19 AM

Release date: 6/15/2026

Tags: #text-based #management #capitalism #strategy #simulation #economy #trading #resource-management

User Reviews

Score: 100%Positive
Review Count: 13 reviews
Fetched At: 8/22/2026, 6:04:19 AM

Reference prices

Japan

Free to Play (JPY)

Steam JP

Free to Play (USD)

Steam

Live Store Snapshot

Body text may reflect the state at publication time. For the latest sale, price, and review changes, prioritize the live price panel, review panel, and the Steam store listing.

Japan Price: Free to Play
Global Price: Free to Play
Sale Status: Regular pricing
Price Checked At: 8/22/2026, 6:00:16 AM

Key highlight

OIL.EXE is a free-to-play, text-based petroleum industry simulation set in the 1980s. Manage your oil field, trade resources, and make strategic economic decisions via a retro computer terminal interface to build your fo

Who this is for

A unique economic simulation where you aim to become a petroleum tycoon on a retro computer terminal. Recommended for those who want to focus on strategy without needing a mouse.

Details

Overview

Step back in time to the 1980s with OIL.EXE, a free-to-play, text-based petroleum industry simulation that puts you in control of a burgeoning oil empire. Played entirely through a classic computer terminal interface, this game challenges your strategic and economic acumen. You'll be presented with a contract, a starting sum of one million dollars, and a set number of years to transform buried crude oil into a substantial fortune. Success hinges on your ability to manage resources, predict market fluctuations, and make critical decisions via a command prompt – no mouse required, just your wits and typing skills.

Highlights

Retro Terminal Simulation: Experience a unique management simulation set within an authentic 1980s computer terminal aesthetic.
Deep Economic Strategy: Navigate the complexities of the petroleum market, making crucial trading and resource management decisions.
Variable Contract Lengths: Choose your challenge, from a brisk 20-year sprint to a long-term 100-year marathon, testing your financial endurance.

Who It's For

OIL.EXE is perfect for players who enjoy deep simulation and management games, appreciate retro aesthetics, and are looking for a strategic challenge that relies on thoughtful decision-making rather than fast reflexes. If you're fascinated by economics, resource management, or simply enjoy the unique charm of text-based interfaces, this game offers a compelling experience.

Game Info

Developed and published by Subroutine Gaming, OIL.EXE offers a robust simulation experience with a focus on capitalism and strategy. The game supports English and is available for free on Steam, featuring Steam Achievements and multiplayer capabilities. Players can choose contract lengths ranging from 20 to 100 years, with the ultimate goal of avoiding bankruptcy and retiring wealthy. The game's core mechanics revolve around managing an oil field, trading resources, and making sound economic choices through a command-line interface.