SimCity 2000

Review

by Jonathan Sutyak

SimCity 2000 is a good game that plays much better on a computer. Using a joystick/gamepad is not as accurate or smooth as using a mouse. Editing the map is the most difficult thing to do with a joystick/gamepad and can lead to accidental destruction of buildings.

The graphics look okay but a little improvement wouldn't hurt. Many of the buildings are detailed but there is not enough variety. Sounds are limited and there is really no reason to listen to them. After playing for some time you will probably mute the television and turn on the radio.

Despite the problems mentioned above, SimCity 2000 is still quite enjoyable. If you have ever wanted to build and control a city then this is the game for you. While you aren't allowed to build each individual building you still have a lot of control.

Zoning takes care of all residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Individual buildings that you get to place include: schools, fire stations, police stations, hospitals, zoos, museums, stadiums, etc. The placement of the major buildings has significant impacts on things such as crime rates and population densities. Such control makes the game interesting and realistic.

SimCity 2000 provides a good challenge that basically never ends, you just keep improving your city. A major challenge occurs in managing your money. Don't over build in the beginning or you may never get your city off the ground.

The replay value is certainly high as long as you have a good imagination. Building each city is a new experience. Players can also select to play scenarios that are based on real life. SimCity 2000 is an entertaining game, about as realistic as you can get, and has many options to keep you busy.