3. Online Play
Yes, I'm going to get to the crippling server issues that have been plaguing gamers this week in a moment, but first, I want to talk about how SimCity's online features function in the best of all possible worlds; that is, once EA have ironed out their connectivity issues in a few days. Forcing players to be permanently connected to the Internet is a troubling pre-requisite that an increasing number of games are requiring players to do, though at least in this game, it has a massive benefit, given that cities within the same area are able to share resources and essentially help each other out. Not only can you share police forces and waste management vehicles, but you can help each other out financially, which can be a life-saver in the event that your economy goes down the tubes. If you decide to forge a roadway that intersects with another city, all the better; it will only promote a greater division of resources, though the success of this element largely depends on who you're playing with. One regret is that the game never really allows you to be truly malevolent to your neighbours; I'm not saying I want to initiate World War 3 or anything, but cutting off supply routes or being able to sabotage some of their services would be hilarious. Instead, it's balanced more towards helping your neighbour, and really the most harmful thing you can deal out to them is apathy.