Cities Skylines Review – Building Dreams, One City at a Time
Game Name: Cities Skylines
Developer: Colossal Order
Initial Release Date: March 10, 2015
Genre: City-building, Simulation
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, macOS, Linux, PlayStation 4, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Introduction
Cities Skylines, developed by Colossal Order and published by Paradox Interactive, is a modern classic in the city-building simulation genre. Launched in 2015, the game has continually evolved through updates and expansions, making it a dynamic and immersive experience. This review delves into its gameplay, unique elements, and recent updates, offering a comprehensive view of what makes it a standout title. Read everything you need to know, in our Cities Skylines review.
Gameplay Overview
At its core, Cities Skylines is about building and managing a city. Players start with a blank map and gradually build up a metropolis. The game shines in its detailed zoning, traffic management, and public service systems. Each decision, from road layouts to tax settings, directly affects the city’s growth and citizen satisfaction.
Unique Elements
The game’s strength lies in its expansive modding community and the depth of its simulation. It provides a realistic urban development experience, including intricacies like water flow systems, electricity, and public transport. The detail in city planning and management is unparalleled, inviting players to become urban planning experts.
Recent Updates
In 2023, Cities Skylines received significant content updates:
- World Tour: Part 2 Expansion – This expansion adds new locations and allows players to build sports stadiums and shopping malls, enhancing the urban experience
.Content Creator Packs – These packs introduced new elements inspired by African architecture, sports venues, and shopping malls, further diversifying city aesthetics and functionalities.New Radio Stations – Stations like JADIA Radio and 80’s Movies Tunes added a new auditory dimension to the game, reflecting its diverse cultural influences.Patch 1.17.0-f3 – Accompanied by the Hotels & Retreats mini-expansion, it introduced new content like Brooklyn and Queens-inspired buildings and new music pack DLCs.
Verdict
Rating: 8/10
Cities Skylines earns a solid 8 out of 10 for its unparalleled city-building experience. The game’s depth in simulation, coupled with continuous content updates, offers a dynamic and engaging urban planning adventure. The game’s expansive modding community and player-driven content creation further enhance its replayability. While the game has some performance issues, its robust features and ongoing support from the developers make it a must-play for simulation enthusiasts.