Exploring the Potential of Multiplayer in Cities Skylines 2, Drawing Inspiration from SimCity 2013’s Ambitious Yet Flawed Attempt
With the release of Cities Skylines 2, the sequel to the popular city-building game, Colossal Order has once again asserted its dominance in the city builder genre, building upon the success of its predecessor. Cities Skylines 2 surpasses expectations, presenting an ideal foundation for an exciting multiplayer experience reminiscent of SimCity 2013.
The Potential for Multiplayer Thrills
SimCity 2013 introduced substantial changes, with multiplayer being a standout feature. Although the forced multiplayer approach was met with controversy, the concept itself had great potential. The idea of constructing cities collaboratively with friends and other players offers immense possibilities, and Cities Skylines 2 seems perfectly poised to embrace it.
In contrast to SimCity 2013, Cities Skylines 2 currently lacks multiplayer elements. Players create their own isolated cities in single-player mode, with no in-game interaction among players or access to a broader community.
While SimCity 2013’s execution of multiplayer had its shortcomings, it presented an engaging concept more city builders should consider. It allowed players to build and develop cities in proximity to one another, creating a shared region. Players could trade resources, collaborate on city projects, and construct great works together. Despite early server issues, it had its moments of enjoyment. Hence, Cities Skylines 2 has an opportunity to build upon this concept.
Unlocking the Potential of Cities Skylines 2
Cities Skylines 2 already hints at this potential through its single-player gameplay. Players can establish external connections between their cities by building public transportation networks like trains and airports. While these cities appear as icons with names, their presence enriches the in-game world.
To take it a step further, Colossal Order could offer players control over these external cities, allowing them to build and expand freely. Players could create trade routes or public transportation networks to connect to other players’ cities instead of fictitious locations. They could even visit and explore other cities at will. As long as it’s not imposed on players, a feature like this could breathe new life into Cities Skylines 2, fostering a vibrant, player-driven world of interconnected cities.
In conclusion, while Cities Skylines 2 shines as a single-player experience, it possesses untapped potential for a dynamic multiplayer mode akin to SimCity 2013. By adopting the best aspects of that multiplayer experience and allowing players more control and freedom, Cities Skylines 2 could create an immersive and engaging multiplayer environment.
Cities Skylines 2 is available Now on PC, Spring 2024 Release for PS5 and Xbox Series X/S.
