City Maker

I'm finding City Maker extremely addictive. Simplified compared to other city builders I've played in that there's no complex micromanagement. I thought I would miss that, but actually it's a pleasant change. With building up the city and economy, managing finances and meeting demands, there's still plenty of strategy/forward planning and challenge to be well entertained. The puzzle element is refreshingly different as you are limited to 1 of 3 available structures per turn. Initially, there’s just houses and farms and then a gradual unlocking of other structures. There’s quite a variety overall and I’m still discovering new ones! They provide services, have needs and give effects and some come in different shapes, a bit like Tetris. There’s no building rotation, which is good here, as it adds to the challenge of placing the structure you want where you'd like it to go and where it's needs are covered. Without that cover, you’ll start to get demands with limited time to meet them. It’s game over after 10 failed demands or you’ve overspent. There are 4 difficulty levels with 3 stars to play for. Additional challenge levels are unlocked after earning 2 stars. The game certainly has longevity and high replay value. It’s also well designed; the UI shows everything you need – coverage overlays, finances, the dreaded failed demands and calendar. Additional information can also be obtained by clicking on a building, e.g. what’s needed to upgrade. The buildings you choose from are clearly labelled, showing income/expenses, type, effects and as you move a building over the map, missing needs are shown. All very helpful! There are some nice touches as well, with fire engines and police vehicles parked at the stations and a plane on the runway of the airport. Sweet!