Modding Beta Update
In a fresh update from Colossal Order, CEO Mariina Hallikainen highlights the latest developments in Cities: Skylines II’s modding capabilities. The Modding Beta group has received an updated Editor for trial, marking a step closer to its public release. This Editor is pivotal for the game’s customization, allowing for map creation and code modding, setting the stage for a broad spectrum of player contributions.
Editor’s Journey to Consoles
The big news for console enthusiasts is the announcement that Cities: Skylines II will launch with a fully-featured Editor on consoles. This will include the same modding potential as the PC version, minus code modding and asset importing due to console restrictions. Instead, console players can look forward to downloading and integrating user-generated content and crafting custom maps.
Community-Created Content
The CEO gave a nod to the community’s efforts in creating Region Packs, which will enrich the game with player-designed assets. Although the asset import feature is still in the pipeline, the anticipation for these additions is high, with a teaser trailer sparking interest in the community-driven content.
Performance Patches Progress
Colossal Order is prioritizing performance with their upcoming patches, focusing on Level of Detail (LOD) optimizations and GPU performance enhancements. They plan to roll out fewer but more substantial updates, aiming for significant improvements in game performance.
Looking Ahead
Hallikainen assures players that despite the absence of a fixed timeline for the Editor’s release, the aim is to launch it soon, with ongoing updates based on player feedback. The commitment to both the PC and console versions remains strong, with a targeted first-half 2024 release for the latter, promising parity in features and performance with the PC edition.
Continuous Communication
The CEO commits to maintaining open communication with the gaming community, promising weekly “Word of the Week” posts to keep players informed. Gamers are encouraged to stay tuned for these updates and to review the latest patch notes for a detailed look at recent enhancements.
In summary, Cities: Skylines II is shaping up to be a modder’s haven, with significant strides being made towards a comprehensive Editor release and inclusive console features. As performance patches progress, the community’s role in shaping the game continues to be integral, with feedback driving the game’s evolution. Stay wired to the “Word of the Week” for the latest on these developments.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5