In this week’s development diary, Cities: Skylines II takes center stage as we delve into the exciting world of Maps and Themes. The sequel promises an enhanced gaming experience with larger and more flexible map sizes, along with captivating themes to customize your city-building adventure. This article offers an in-depth look at the game’s new features, all presented in a neutral and informative tone.
Comparing Map Sizes
Cities: Skylines II: Expansive Playable Areas
Cities: Skylines II introduces a significant change in map sizes compared to its predecessor. Players will be thrilled to find that the playable area is now nearly five times larger, with an astounding 159km² available for city-building. Gone are the limitations of its predecessor, as players can now unlock a massive 441 map tiles, granting them unprecedented freedom to craft their dream cities.
New Flexibility and Freedom
Unleash Your Creativity
Cities: Skylines II redefines city-building with enhanced flexibility and freedom. Map tiles no longer need to be connected, offering the option to create isolated pocket towns. The expansion opportunities extend to the edge of the map, where players can establish new Outside Connections. Additionally, the raised map height limit allows players to envision unique and varied landscapes for their cities.
Exploring Themes
European or North American – The Choice is Yours
Themes play a crucial role in Cities: Skylines II, allowing players to define the style of roads and buildings in their cities. When starting a new map, players can opt for either the European or North American theme, each offering distinct visual aesthetics for street markings, traffic lights, vehicle models, and more. While the theme cannot be changed once the city starts, players can select their preferred theme while zoning residential and commercial areas, adding a personal touch to their city’s appearance.
Introducing the Maps
Diverse Locations to Inspire You
Cities: Skylines II boasts an impressive selection of maps, each drawing inspiration from real-world locations. From island clusters to mountain ranges, players will find an array of landscapes to challenge and inspire their city-building ambitions. Let’s take a closer look at some of the captivating maps featured in the game:
- Archipelago Haven: An inviting cluster of islands surrounded by water bodies, offering convenient access to various transportation options for city expansion.
- Barrier Island: Inspired by barrier island formations, this map presents long chains of islands parallel to the mainland, providing ample space for city construction and airport development.
- Great Highlands: Drawing inspiration from Scotland’s Highlands region, this map showcases dominating mountain ranges and serene lochs, making it a captivating canvas for city-building.
- Lakeland: Inspired by Finland’s lakeland region, this map boasts serene lakes and lush green areas, perfect for creating a Northern European ambiance.
- Mountain Village: Nestled among converging rivers and majestic mountain peaks, this map takes inspiration from small cities along the Alps mountain range.
- River Delta: A map featuring a large curving river flowing into the sea through a delta, offering flat terrains ideal for city expansion and island-based neighborhoods.
- Sweeping Plains: Inspired by New Zealand’s Canterbury plains, this map offers vast expanses of flat grassland, making it a versatile canvas for diverse city-building projects.
- Twin Mountain: Drawing inspiration from Iceland’s coastline, this map features twin flat-topped, steep-sided Tuya mountain formations, complemented by stunning cliffs and hidden beaches.
- Waterway Pass: Bordered by colossal mountain ranges, this map boasts a meandering river, train tracks, and highways, all providing easy access to outside connections.
- Windy Fjords: Inspired by breathtaking fjord coast formations, this map offers narrow inlets surrounded by steep cliffs, allowing players to build cities nestled among the mountains.
Outside Connections
Expand Your City’s Reach
Cities: Skylines II provides various Outside Connections, each contributing to the expansion and development of your city. Players will find road connections, pre-built train connections, and seaways already present on most maps. Additionally, they can create Outside Road, Train, and Ship Connections upon unlocking the edge of the map. Furthermore, players can establish essential connections for electricity, water, and sewage trade to and from the outside world, facilitating the growth and sustainability of their cities.
Themes and Visual Styles
Personalize Your City’s Look
The choice of Themes in Cities: Skylines II allows players to customize the visual appearance of their cities. Whether you prefer a European charm or a North American vibe, selecting the desired theme will influence various elements in your city, from street markings to vehicle models. While the theme cannot be changed once the city starts, players can freely select between available themes when zoning residential and commercial areas, adding diversity and personalization to their cityscape.
With its expansive playable areas, creative freedom, diverse maps, and customizable themes, Cities: Skylines II offers an unparalleled city-building experience. Aspiring city planners and virtual architects will find endless opportunities to bring their dream cities to life in this captivating sequel. Embrace the challenge, ignite your imagination, and embark on a city-building journey like never before in Cities: Skylines II.
Cities: Skylines II Electricity & Water: A Complete Guide
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5
