MySim Mode
Do not buy "SimCity 4" for the MySim Mode. This mode allows you to import or use ready-made Sims. You give them a home, they find a job, and let you know about the happenings in their lives. Sims will give you feedback on what you are doing good and what you need to improve upon. You can easily get the same feedback by reading the news ticker."SimCity 4" Graphics
By far the most impressive change in "SimCity 4" is the graphics. They may appear 3D, but only a few things really are, such as the clouds. Screenshots don't even begin to show the beauty found in the landscaping. Watching a volcano explode had me breathless. Sending down lightening is always amusing as well. However, excellent graphics usually brings performance issues. Even with a computer above the minimum requirements, be ready to deal with graphics slowly de-pixelizing themselves as you move across your city. This doesn't happen too much with small cities, but it's a sure thing with large ones.The Cons
Of course there are always things that could be improved with a game. "Simcity 4" is no different. Despite my complaints, none of the problems really ruin the gameplay.- No Building Architect Tool
- Cannot turn off auto roads
- Very few edicts
- No custom buildings
- No scenarios including, or the ability to create them
- Some bugs
- Flimsy manual
- No random disasters
The negative aspects of "SimCity 4" leave the game feeling uncompleted and released too soon; despite the fact the release date was pushed back multiple times. I think I smell an expansion pack in our future. Let's hope Maxis releases a few patches instead.
Conclusion
I've spent most of my free time playing "SimCity 4" in the last week. I can honestly say I have only just begun to scratch the surface of gameplay. It's an amazing game, with incredible graphics and all new challenges. Micromanagement is required with this game, which will displease some people, but I love the control.A must have for any "SimCity" fan.
