City building games have a Soul Problem pt.2

City-building games may soon feel more lifelike and less reliant on mods for visual realism.

In a follow-up to a previous discussion, Alex Lingris critiques the aesthetic shortcomings of modern city-building games, specifically referencing Cities: Skylines 2. Lingris argues that despite technical simulation advancements, these games suffer from a lack of "soul" due to overly square, flat, and unnaturally clean environments. The author highlights the absence of organic shapes, realistic textures, and details like stairs, potholes, and graffiti that contribute to the character and story of real-world cities. Lingris also points out the sanitized depiction of urban areas, which omits the visual cues of decay, neglect, or the presence of poorer neighborhoods that provide functional feedback in reality. The piece suggests that future game developments or DLCs should prioritize these aesthetic elements to create more immersive and lifelike city simulations, moving beyond purely technical gameplay.

The critique centers on how the sterile, uniform aesthetics of games like Cities: Skylines 2 detract from the immersive experience, despite sophisticated simulations. Lingris argues that developers overlook crucial real-world visual cues such as organic shapes, varied textures, and signs of wear-and-tear, which are essential for conveying a city's narrative and character. This focus on artificial cleanliness and geometric perfection creates a disconnect, forcing players to rely on external tools like mods to achieve desired realism.

This aesthetic deficit in city-building games suggests a potential market opportunity for titles that prioritize nuanced visual storytelling and organic environmental design. The author's call for incorporating elements like imperfect textures, varied topography, and even signs of decay indicates a desire for deeper simulation that extends beyond mere mechanics to emotional resonance. Future games that embrace these 'flaws' might capture a more engaged player base seeking authentic representation over sterile perfection.