Good day, beloved PlayStation fans and loyal Tropicans! El Presidente has gracefully decreed that today be forever remembered in the annals of history as the day when the release date for Tropico 5 on PS4 was finally announced! On April 28th, PS4 players will be able to build and rule over their very own banana republic in this new-generation exclusive.

What kind of leader will you become? Will you be a vicious tyrant feared by many? Or a socialist saint loved by all? It’s up to you how to rule in Tropico 5, but the island of Tropico is a political desert filled with carnivorous carrion that will just as likely peck your eyes out as they would aid your government. Depending on what you want to achieve as Presidente, it’s essential to know the who’s who of the many political factions as you guide your people through the ages.

We’ve therefore prepared a helpful intro to the various residents of the island and their political factions for you to familiarise yourself with. That way, when the inevitable betrayal does happen, at least you’ll know exactly who it was that stabbed you in the back! You’ll always have your trusty advisor Penultimo though. Sweet, loyal, dim-witted Penultimo…

Character: Lord Oaksworth

Faction: Royalists

The rather well-bred Lord Oaksworth is an all-round top chap and good egg. He represents the interests of The Crown of England, so as long as you don’t go doing something silly like declaring independence (which you will do), he’ll be happy to share his wisdom with you.

Character: Evita Vasquez

Faction: Communists

On the flipside to old Oaksworth, you have the bold Evita Vasquez; who will be regularly demanding the independence of Tropico whilst sticking up for the common man. She’ll be a useful partner when it comes to rallying the people, but don’t let her catch you building any banks…

Character: Rudolph “Ruddy” Thompson

Faction: United States of America

Foreign relations become surprisingly important when you reach the era of the World Wars — and there are many different Superpowers to contend with. To avoid getting on the wrong side of the USA, you’ll need to impress Ruddy Thompson here. Even simply inviting him to your embassy and saying ‘good job, buddy!’ can keep things pretty.

Character: Veronica Veneno

Faction: Capitalists

Veronica Veneno is “all about the benjamins.” The Capitalists she represents will go along with anything as long as the economy remains profitable. Restricting the vote to the wealthy is an easy way to stay in power… but how will you sleep at night?

Character: Adriana Diaz

Faction: Militarists

Adriana Diaz is a power-crazed, war-mongering devil in disguise and won’t be happy until you start a war. Period.

Character: Leon Kane

Faction: Unknown

Not much is known about the shady character known as Leon Kane, but he sure is charming. He regularly mentions something called ‘The Order’, but just what their intentions are exactly is a complete mystery. All we know is he wants El Presidente in power: which can only be a good thing, right?

Character: Penultimo

Faction: El Presidente!

Penultimo is the right-hand man of El Presidente and will always be there to give you a quick self-esteem boost. His only agenda is to please you and keep you updated on how your city is doing. So expect regular information from him, and even more frequent outbursts of love.

The scope of the political landscape in Tropico 5 is vast, with many more factions and characters to discover when Tropico 5 launches for PS4 on April 28th. Just remember, vote El Presidente! Or else…