The Game That Built an Entire Genre
When Will Wright released SimCity in 1989, he didn’t just create a game—he invented a whole new genre of gameplay. Originally developed for the Commodore 64 and later ported to numerous platforms including DOS, SimCity put players in the role of a mayor and city planner, challenging them to build and manage a thriving metropolis.
A Different Kind of Play
What made SimCity revolutionary was its complete departure from the win/lose paradigm that dominated gaming. There were no definitive victory conditions—instead, players set their own goals and measured success by the prosperity of their virtual citizens. This open-ended "software toy" approach was initially met with skepticism from publishers, who couldn’t understand a game without clear winning states.
Maxis, the company Wright co-founded with Jeff Braun, took a chance on the unusual concept, and gaming history was made. SimCity introduced the world to sandbox gameplay, where experimentation and creativity took precedence over prescribed objectives.
Systems-Based Design
The true genius of SimCity lay in its interconnected systems. Every decision had ripple effects: building a coal power plant provided necessary electricity but increased pollution; raising taxes generated revenue but risked driving away residents; zoning decisions shaped how the city would grow. This complex simulation of urban dynamics taught a generation of gamers about city planning, economics, and civic management while they were having fun.
Technical Specifications
System Requirements (DOS version):
- IBM PC or compatible with 640KB RAM
- MS-DOS 2.0 or higher
- CGA, EGA, MCGA, VGA, or Tandy graphics
- Hard disk recommended
Controls:
- Mouse-driven interface
- Keyboard shortcuts for power users
Cultural Impact and Legacy
SimCity’s influence extends far beyond gaming. The title has been used in urban planning courses and educational settings worldwide. Its success spawned numerous sequels and spin-offs, including The Sims—one of the best-selling game franchises of all time.
Will Wright’s creation fundamentally changed how designers and players thought about games. It demonstrated that interactive entertainment could be thoughtful, educational, and creative while still being engaging. Every city-builder and management simulation that followed—from Cities: Skylines to Planet Coaster—owes a debt to the foundation laid by SimCity.
As a testament to its enduring appeal, many players today still return to the original SimCity, finding that its elegant simplicity and depth continue to offer a rewarding experience that transcends its technical limitations.