SimCity

Critic reviews

• GGameSpot

  Brett Todd · Apr 09, 2014

  5.0

  This is really just a patch that does little aside from removing the always-on Internet requirement and performing some internal housekeeping so the game can operate fully on local systems. This is a good thing, especially given how the launch problems proved that this sort of DRM is spectacularly ill-advised. But even though this addition by subtraction makes for a better experience overall.

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• CCOGconnected

  Paul Sullivan · Mar 18, 2013

  6.0

  The core mechanics have heaps of potential, but I was disappointed with the overall package. Server issues persist, the game has numerous bugs, and isn’t as open ended as one might expect. I definitely encourage potential players to do a little research about SimCity before diving in – you may or may not like what it has to offer.

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• EEdge

  Edge Staff · Mar 18, 2013

  6.0

  SimCity is good for the reasons it’s always been good, and bad for reasons old and new. And yes, we wish we could play it on the train.
• GIGame Informer

  Joe Juba · Mar 15, 2013

  6.5

  Given time, Maxis could clear up the problems with SimCity. The studio could deliver consistent server performance, restore cheetah speed, patch the AI, and give players larger cities. But games can’t be reviewed based on the product they might become; Electronic Arts and Maxis are charging gamers for this experience right now. At this point in time, it just isn’t worth your money.
• IIGN

  Dan Stapleton · Mar 13, 2013

  7.0

  In some ways I'd equate SimCity to an early version of Minecraft: a wonderfully creative toy attached to a barely functional game. The most important parts of something really cool are here already, and that's enough for me to recommend it to people with a tolerance for buggy but beautiful things.

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• JJoystiq

  Alexander Sliwinski · Mar 13, 2013

  5.0

  SimCity in its current state is ... academic. It's conventional. Playing the game is like being handed a piece of paper and checking off a to-do list. The old games weren't much different in this respect, but this is supposed to be a modern game and it's lacking in stories to tell your friends. A city is millions of people living together in harmony and tension. It's a human achievement and it's messy. SimCity is gorgeous and bland.

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