Gaming News - November 2006

Redwood City, CA (November 28, 2006) - Electronic Arts today announced the availability of SimCity for mobile phones.

From EA:

SimCity, the game that launched the simulation phenomenon, now lets mobile phone users create and manage the growth of a living city in the palm of their hands. Originally created by Will Wright, SimCity is now available on major U.S. carriers.

“SimCity is one of the most significant game franchises of the past 20 years and we’re thrilled to bring it to the mobile phone market,” said Travis Boatman, vice president worldwide studios, EA Mobile. “For the first time, players will have the ability to pick up and build a city while on the go – any time, any place.”

Players take on the roles of City Planner and Mayor as they design and build the ultimate city on their mobile phone. Choose from a unique set of maps and then plan residential, commercial and industrial areas. Next, install roads and railways, police and fire stations, parks, stadiums and more. As the city begins to take shape, be prepared to deal with unavoidable challenges such as crime, pollution, fires, tornados, and even a monster attack. On top of that, players must maintain a balanced budget. The ultimate goal is to attract as many Sims as possible to one’s thriving new metropolis.

Other features include building cities on multiple games maps with unique challenges, controlling the city budget and helping citizens cope with natural disasters. Remember to take care of the Sims or they may leave. Players also have eight tool categories that have the ability to plan, plot, build, bulldoze, re-plot and manage a city. An informational feature also will be included to keep track of your city statistics, like crime, pollution and traffic levels to determine which areas need the most attention.