Diner Dash is a fantastically addictive business simulation that focuses on a much smaller world than most of the business simulations we have already discussed. In it, you are Flo, the waitress (I like to think of Flo as both waitress and CEO, since there is no evidence of other management). Just as in real life, Flo’s restaurant starts out small — two tables for two customers each. But as you become more and more successful, the Diner becomes larger, more attractive, gets accessories (such as a coffee machine) and Flo’s wardrobe even gets an upgrade! Diner Dash is all about time management and anticipating (and meeting) your customers’ needs; two things, I think, which are key for any manager. No one is born a business tycoon. We all start small — Flo’s Diner is a great place to start.

For those of you who aren’t into waitressing, Play First, the company which produces Diner Dash (and Diner Dash 2, Flo on the Go, Munchkin Lunchkin, and the rest of the Flo series) produces a number of similarly lovely and addictive business simulations. Some of the more exotic ones are Passport to Perfume, in which you are an aspiring perfume creator,  Farm Frenzy, in which you have to do everything from plant grass to collect produce, and Wendy’s Wellness, in which you create wellness centers that promote renewal and relaxation. Whether you secretly wish to be a sushi chef or run a zoo, Play First has got the business simulation for you, well, at least until the CEO Game comes out. Just make sure you don’t start up right before you have a big assignment due — trust me, time flies when you’re playing CEO.

Tamar.

The CEO Game.