Island Thrill Ride
For starters every Island genrated is unique from the terrain to the Dictator tratis that modify gameplay ,to the diffculty options.
Gameplay in a nutshell is easy ,all you have to do is make money(Luring Tourists ,making/growing/mining/Logging items to sell to ships that in most maps also provide you with labor for the Island) to build buildings that will keep your people happy so when they ,or you want to hold elections they are more likely to side with you.
As I have stated above the traits you choose(Or are stuck with if it's a scenario) can affect gameplay. Ex. If you choose a trait ,that has a negitive impact on how a Political Party on the island views you ,from the get-go you must focus on making the party happy or when elections are held ,whoever that party leader is will most likely be your opponent.
If a party Really doesn't like you they will try rebel and try to destroy buildings on the Island(Including you're palace ,If that's destroyed It's game over).That's where you have to invest in an Army($$$$$).
Bottom Line:If you want a Hands on version of Sim City that takes place on an Island and during the Cold War this might be the game for you