In Big Biz Tycoon! 2, players step into a world of high-stakes business where every decision impacts the fortunes of their company and leads to success or failure in their industry of choice. From the initial purchase of an office building to the actual layout of the office spaces, including type of wall, carpet, and furniture, entrepreneurs must hire and fire staff, mediate problems, study market trends, select products, and invest wisely. Expansion is mandatory when possible, productivity must be constantly monitored and increased, and challenges from competitors must be met with strategic planning and even industrial sabotage. Personnel management ranges from offering education programs and scheduling vacation time to providing incentives and establishing salaries.
Three difficulty levels (beginner, novice, and expert) are available in the five game modes: Free Game, Become Market Leader, Conquer World Market, Make Your Dream Come True, or Invent the Future. Players can select from eight company logos and set up shop initially in New York, Hamburg, or Tokyo. Five computer-controlled opponents vary in styles and tenacity, and staff members are rated in constitution, production, intelligence, creativity, charisma, and loyalty. Gameplay requires hands-on control in areas of staff, research, production, advertising, distribution, and fixed costs, with graphs, charts, and statistics available to help every step of the way. Players can select background music from an in-game jukebox or import their own MIDI files.