Best City Builders

Cities Skylines

• Cities Skylines is a popular choice among players for city building with a mix of real city management and building features. The game offers a chill experience with varied customization options.
  • The game's DLC model can be overwhelming with numerous expansions, but often goes on sale.
  • It provides robust modding support and has a strong community for additional content.
  • However, some players feel the game leans more towards aesthetics rather than deep city simulation and governance.

SimCity 4

• SimCity 4 is a classic favorite for many players with its region mechanic and immersive gameplay.
  • Players appreciate the atmospheric presentation, soundtrack, and the ability to sink hours into building landscapes.
  • Despite its age, the game still offers a fun experience.

Anno 1800

• Anno 1800 is praised for its strategy elements and historical setting, providing a rich city building experience.
  • The game can take time to get into, but once players grasp the mechanics, it can become very engaging.

Tropico 6

• Tropico 6 offers a more casual city building experience, focusing on managing aspects like humor, economy, and politics.
  • The game scratches a particular itch for players looking for a lighter city building experience.

Surviving Mars

• Surviving Mars is recommended for a different take on city building in a Martian environment.
  • The game offers interesting challenges and management mechanics.

Other Recommended City Builders

• Banished is lauded for its challenging city management and balance mechanics.
• Manor Lords and Foundation offer medieval city building experiences.
• Workers & Resources: Soviet Republic presents a complex city building challenge focused on management and infrastructure.
• Pharaoh is an older but enjoyable ancient era city builder.
• Rimworld is not a traditional city builder but provides a deep base management experience.
• Anno Series games, like 1404, 2070, and 2205, offer various city building opportunities across different timelines and settings.
• Two Point Campus allows players to build and manage a university campus.
• Two Point Hospital and Planet Coaster are mentioned for their relaxing city building experiences.
• Civilization Series and Transport Fever 2 offer strategic city building elements.
• Planet Coaster, Stranded Alien Dawn, and Dotage provide diverse city building experiences.

Remember to consider your preferences and gameplay style when choosing the best city builders for your gaming needs. Each game offers a unique experience, from relaxing building challenges to in-depth city management simulations.