Theme Hospital is an online business simulation game designed by Bullfrog Productions, released in 1997 by Electronic Arts for the Microsoft Windows operating system where players manage and design a private hospital within the fictional city of Seattle, Washington. The player has the option to either play as an employee, owner or doctor within the facility, taking care of the staff, hiring new patients, finding patients to treat and maintaining the main facility. The storyline is set in modern times, but there are a number of similarities with theme park attractions like Disney's Epcot Center and Universal Studios, to name a few.
The main plot revolves around a series of murders that occur within the hospital, and its main character, Dr. James Stinson, who is the head of the department responsible for assigning doctors to various departments and treating patients. While on his rounds, he is approached by a mysterious figure who informs him about a patient who could be a serial killer. The patient turns out to be John Watson, a young autistic boy who suffers from severe seizures. Dr. Watson is put under close surveillance by the police, but soon escapes from his custody. In the meantime, John becomes the subject of a series of medical tests by the police, which reveal a number of clues to his real identity. This leads to a struggle between him and a former colleague, Dr. James Stinson, who try to kill Dr. Watson in revenge for losing his job at the hospital.
There are several different aspects to enjoy, including a number of levels to complete to progress through the storyline. Players are also given the opportunity to take a vacation within the hospital. If you choose to do so, the options are varied. Each player can select the theme park that best appeals to them, whether it be Disney World or Universal Studios. There are also different options to buy or sell stocks. Some of these options include buying and selling stocks at various events such as a trade show or convention. There are also several unlockable items, such as exclusive clothing and wallpaper, depending on your preferences.
