Similar games

[36ggz]

I'm looking for games similar to PH (hardcore-ish building sims, preferably 2d, lots of freedom, sandboxy).

I have already played and enjoyed Airport CEO, Casino Resort Tower, Oxygen Not Included, Last Spell, There Are Billions, Game Dev Tycoon etc.

(I know that some of them are not in 2d, I am not interested in nitpicking).

[Wai]

If you are interested in Building Transport networks, try OpenTTD. It's free and it is most assuredly sandbox. The older Sim City (Sim City II and III) games are also quite enjoyable.

[:3]

I really enjoyed Two Point Campus & Two Point Hospitals

[Levictus]

Have you tried Mad Tower Tycoon?

It's a solid 2D tower builder. I like PH more, but Mad Tower Tycoon is also a fund experience with less micro, but solid macro gameplay and goals.