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Cities: Skylines
Simulation
Strategy
Single-player
Steam Achievements
Steam Trading Cards
Steam Workshop
Steam Cloud
Includes level editor
Remote Play on Tablet
Family Sharing

Cities: Skylines is a modern take on the classic city simulation. The game introduces new game play elements to realize the thrill and hardships of creating and maintaining a real city whilst expanding on some well-established tropes of the city building experience.

Developers: Colossal Order Ltd.
Publishers: Paradox Interactive
Release Date: Mar 10, 2015
Price (USD): $8.99
Current Players: 9.7k

Links:  Steam Store  SteamDB

Very Positive(93%)
Players admire the game's depth and consider it a benchmark in the city-building genre. However, many express frustration with the game's expansive and costly DLC model, which is often seen as necessary for a full experience. Another common critique is the steep learning curve and the heavy reliance on mods to address traffic management and other issues. Performance problems, especially with larger cities or when many mods are installed, are also noted. Nevertheless, the game's overall ability to captivate and engage players keeps it highly regarded by fans, particularly when allowing creative freedom through modding.

Positive Points

  • Cities: Skylines is consistently praised as an excellent city-building simulator, offering deep gameplay, detail, and a creative outlet.
  • The game is highly regarded by fans of the city-building genre for its level of control, flexibility, and realistic simulation of urban planning.
  • Modding and the Steam Workshop community greatly enhance the experience, allowing virtually limitless customizations and improvements.
  • The visuals and detailed mechanics—such as traffic, zoning, and infrastructure—add to the immersion and enjoyment of the game.

    • Negative Points

  • A significant number of players criticize the extensive and pricey DLC model, which some describe as essential for a complete experience.
  • The complexity and steep learning curve can be overwhelming for beginners, making it hard to manage traffic and economic systems effectively.
  • The game can suffer from performance issues, especially when cities grow large or many mods are used.
  • Some users face technical problems, such as crashes or bugs, particularly with updates or when using mods.

    • Mixed Points

  • While some users appreciate the game's complexity and challenge, others find it daunting and prefer clearer tutorials and guidance.
  • Many players love the game's strategic elements, although some are frustrated by the reliance on mods to fix base-game issues such as traffic AI.

    • Common Themes

  • Cities: Skylines is often compared to SimCity, with many users finding it a superior successor, offering more depth and freedom.
  • DLC and modding are critical components of the player experience, with modding being a widely discussed topic for enhancing gameplay.
  • Traffic management is a significant part of gameplay, frequently mentioned as both a favorite challenge and a source of frustration.
  • Despite its age, the game continues to be recommended over its sequel, highlighting its enduring appeal.
    • Updated 5/10/2025, 12:01:00 AM UTC
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