The city simulation experience continues to evolve with the forthcoming title, Cities: Skylines 2. In a video presentation, the developers delve into the major alterations made to the city service mechanics and additional features incorporated into this sequel.
Taking the helm of the city’s operations, players will have more control over city services. Cities: Skylines 2 introduces upgrades for all city services, offering operational extensions and sub-buildings that can be used to meet a variety of urban needs. As an example, a new wing can be added to a medical clinic, providing additional patient spaces, or an ambulance garage can be expanded.
Related: Cities: Skylines II teases Schools, Parks and more in City Services trailer
One of the upgrades is seen in the district tool, which has moved from a paintbrush model to a polygonal tool. This alteration enables a more precise creation of districts and responds to feedback from players about the difficulties experienced when trying to perfect district shapes in the original game. In addition, the Gated Community policy enables players to regulate who can traverse a district, allowing them to maintain a calm atmosphere within certain areas by limiting heavy traffic.
Land value also undergoes a shift in its calculation. While city services and parks greatly influenced land value in Cities: Skylines, the sequel bases land value on the willingness of citizens and businesses to inhabit an area and pay rent. Thus, placing necessary services can indirectly enhance an area’s desirability and increase its land value.
Road maintenance also becomes more significant in Cities: Skylines 2. Now, the condition of roads not only affects traffic speed but also impacts the frequency of traffic accidents. Therefore, maintaining an ample road maintenance fleet becomes crucial.
The game puts emphasis on citizen healthcare, an integral aspect of city functionality. The health and well-being of citizens are pivotal in achieving citizen happiness, which can be managed through the placement of healthcare facilities across the city. The improved citizen death care system aims to avoid the mass death events that were present in the first game unless a building collapses, for instance.
Another major change is seen in the management of garbage. Cities: Skylines 2 introduces a recycling option that produces materials for industrial buildings. The size of a landfill area can be customized according to the needs of a city.
Related: Cities: Skylines II trailer teases Public and Cargo transportation gameplay
Education has been expanded to accommodate different demands in the city. The game now includes various levels of education: Elementary School, High School, College, University, Medical University, and Technical University. These levels cater to the diverse requirements of workplaces within the city.
The game also includes improved fire and rescue services and introduces postal and internet services. The fire department now deals with building and vehicle fires and conducts search and rescue operations for collapsed buildings. Citizens can send mail or have internet service, improving their well-being and positively influencing the profit margins of businesses.
If a city lacks specific emergency services, external connections can supply those services at a higher cost than if the service was based in the city. A new feature, the Administration category, has been introduced, comprising the City Hall, Central Bank, and Welfare Office. These institutions offer city-wide bonuses and assistance to citizens with low well-being.
The video concluded by stating that upcoming presentations will discuss electricity and water features in the game, further enhancing the city management experience in Cities: Skylines 2.

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