Created by legendary designer Will Wright in 1989, the original SimCity put simulation gaming on the map, spawning a cottage industry of sequels and spin-offs in the decades since.
In 2014, it was reimagined for iPhone and iPad as SimCity BuildIt. True to its roots but expanded with major upgrades and mobile-friendly gameplay, it’s a slick renovation fit for longtime fans and new urban planners alike.
Here’s why now’s the perfect time to grab your hard hat and break ground.

Old-school cool
It starts just like you remember: a bare plot of land, ready for a makeover. To get your city up and running, plunk down buildings in three different zone types: industrial, residential, and commercial. Start with a few homes, an electricity plant, and don’t forget a fire station!
The new game also brings back the game’s signature disasters (alien invaders, destructive tornadoes), though this time, you choose when and where to deploy them. Not only are they fun to watch unfold, they can earn you helpful resources to spend on nursery schools, public libraries, and other specialized buildings.

New to the game
SimCity BuildIt upgrades your urban planning with all sorts of awesome features. Set up shop in the Frosty Fjords region to unlock heating services (and admire the views, of course). Give your cities a thematic flair with a wealth of architectural styles (maybe a romantic Parisian vibe or a futuristic look inspired by Tokyo).
You’re not the only town in town, either. Once you reach level 18, join other players across the globe in the Contest of Mayors challenges. And if you’re feeling really competitive, build Vu Tower to unleash disasters on other mayors!

Know before you go
Increase your population as quickly as possible to unlock the Trade Depot, where you can buy and sell in-game goods. It’s the fastest (and often cheapest) way to acquire much-needed building materials.