SimCity 2000 – Build your own metropolis from scratch
SimCity 2000 is the second chapter in the legendary SimCity series, delivering a far more detailed and engaging experience than its groundbreaking predecessor from 1989. Released in 1993, it has since become one of the most beloved city-building simulations ever. As the player, you get full control over everything from energy sources and road networks to tax rates and public institutions—and it’s all presented in iconic isometric 2D graphics that still spark nostalgia today.
A game full of possibilities and challenges
SimCity 2000 starts with a blank landscape and a vision. You build homes, schools, power plants, and parks—and gradually your city takes shape. You need to take care of:
- Infrastructure: roads, rail, power grid, and water pipes
- Public services: police, fire, hospitals, schools, and universities
- Fiscal balance: adjust taxes, attract investment, and avoid bankruptcy
- Environmental impact and disaster management
And compared to the original, you can also build underground infrastructure and choose from many more energy sources—such as solar, nuclear, or fusion.
More than just building
SimCity 2000 isn’t just about building—it’s also about managing, planning and anticipating the future. Through the in-game newspaper, you can track residents’ needs and the overall status of your city. If pollution, traffic, or dissatisfaction become issues, you’ll be alerted and can take action.
The game also includes a God Mode, where you can subject the city to earthquakes, floods, UFO attacks, and more—then try to rebuild society.
Expansions and variety
In 1994, the expansion Scenarios Vol. 1: Great Disasters arrived, adding both realistic and fantastical catastrophes. It significantly ramps up the challenge and variety:
- Earthquakes, hurricanes, and floods
- Nuclear accidents and riots
- UFO attacks and volcanic eruptions
It’s the perfect add-on for players who want even more intensity and variety.
Availability
SimCity 2000 can be played on:
- Windows (DOS version via emulation)
- Mac (Special Edition available for purchase)
- Modern systems via platforms such as GOG (if you want extra features)
The game takes up very little space and runs smoothly even on older machines.
Top five tips for SimCity 2000
In SimCity 2000, terrain matters more than many remember. Build too close to water or lowlands and bridges and tunnels get expensive fast.
Power plants are costly. Start with coal for a low price, then switch to nuclear or wind once your economy can support it.
A 6–7% tax rate promotes faster growth. Raise it only when the city is stable.
As the city grows, traffic explodes. Subways and trains dramatically reduce both congestion and pollution.
The Query tool reveals exactly why zones aren’t developing—land value, missing services, or poor transport.