Paradox Interactive and Colossal Order have unveiled the highly anticipated Cities: Skylines II with a gameplay trailer at the Xbox Games Showcase. This long-awaited sequel to the critically acclaimed city-building game is set to launch on October 24th, 2023, and is now available for pre-order on PC via Steam, Xbox Series X|S, and PlayStation®5. Offering an immersive urban development experience, Cities: Skylines II brings an array of exciting new features to the table, promising to captivate both new and seasoned players alike.
In the gameplay debut trailer, viewers catch a glimpse of the vast scale and intricacy that Cities: Skylines II has to offer. Players are tasked with building detailed cities on an epic scale, where each decision has a far-reaching impact on the city and its inhabitants. The game presents a dynamic world filled with diverse biomes, including different climates and environmental challenges, providing both obstacles and opportunities for city builders to navigate.
One of the standout features in Cities: Skylines II is the addition of a simulated citizen system. For the first time in the series, each citizen has their own individual life, complete with occupation, household, relationships, and more. This new level of depth brings cities to life like never before, allowing players to witness the direct consequences of their choices on the lives of the citizens. Every strategic decision carries weight and immediate impact, adding an extra layer of realism and complexity to the gameplay.
Players begin their journey in Cities: Skylines II by selecting a map, each with its own unique challenges and potential. As the population grows, players must manage a range of interconnected simulation systems, including road networks, districts, infrastructure, and the needs of the citizens. From a small town to a sprawling metropolis, the possibilities are endless as players expand their vision and shape their dream city block by block.
Mariina Hallikainen, the CEO of Colossal Order, describes Cities: Skylines II as the pinnacle of city-building games, featuring captivating visuals and unprecedented freedom in managing the population and city. The game offers an immersive experience that allows players to exercise control over every aspect of city planning while witnessing the growth of their photorealistic metropolis.
Deep simulation lies at the core of Cities: Skylines II, requiring players to make strategic choices that have a ripple effect throughout the city. With intricate AI and economic systems, players must adapt, problem-solve, and react to changes, challenges, and opportunities. The game’s epic scale allows players to build sky-high structures and expand across the vast map, providing the freedom to create their ultimate urban utopia.
Furthermore, the game introduces a dynamic world where players can select a map to determine the climate and biome of their city. Natural forces, such as pollution, changeable weather, and seasonal challenges, play a significant role in shaping the growth and development of cities, adding another layer of realism and complexity to the gameplay.
In the weeks leading up to the game’s release, Colossal Order plans to release a series of deep dive videos that will offer players a closer look at the intricate systems involved in managing their sprawling metropolises. These videos will provide valuable insights and tips for players to master the game’s mechanics and create thriving, prosperous cities.
With its epic scale, intricate simulations, and dynamic maps, Cities: Skylines II is poised to deliver an unparalleled city-building experience. The game’s attention to detail and immersive gameplay will undoubtedly delight fans of the genre, while its new features and enhanced graphics will undoubtedly attract a new wave of players. Prepare to embark on a journey of urban development like never before when Cities: Skylines II launches on October 24th, 2023.
Platforms: Microsoft Windows, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5
