SimCity Societies Review

Don't expect much when it comes to disasters. I've played the game for quite a while and I've only experienced two recurring calamities - fire and a heatwave. The heatwave caused power shortages, because the Sims kept using Air Conditioning too much. This was a measly challenge, simply resolved by building another power plant or by using special features of existing plants. Well, at least, you can bring about a few optional disasters if you want (Killer Storm, Earthquake and Meteor Shower), which can be activated at any time.

The lazy hours of the morning...

Put that fire out, ya lethargic idiots!

The game looks and sounds pretty good. The developers clearly decided to stick to a simple but elegant design that's rather pleasing to the eye. Urban environments are colorful and represent a vivid depiction of a living, breathing society. Also, the game didn't exhibit any technical glitches. The only real problem may occur when your city increases in size, at which point you can expect significant frame-rate drops. EA released a patch that handles this, on top of adding two new buildings to the game.

To sum up, EA targeted this one for casual gamers and they did a good job in that respect. Those eager to get into the game quickly and without any extra effort are sure to enjoy it. Downloadable content will also be made available, so there's plenty potential for an active online community here, with numerous options to edit buildings and incorporate new textures and such.

Quite simply, the game is too easy. Other than balancing society energies and chasing a few meager trophies, you won't find much to entertain you here. The game is far from an "ultimate building block tool kit." SimCity has gone from a complex game to a toned down and largely underwhelming city builder with very little to hold your attention.