Difference between revisions of "SimCity 4"
Solarstrike (talk | contribs) |
m |
||
(82 intermediate revisions by 28 users not shown) | |||
Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Infobox game | {{Infobox game | ||
− | |cover = SimCity 4 cover. | + | |cover = SimCity 4 cover.jpg |
|developers = | |developers = | ||
{{Infobox game/row/developer|Maxis}} | {{Infobox game/row/developer|Maxis}} | ||
Line 11: | Line 11: | ||
{{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|January 14, 2003}} | {{Infobox game/row/date|Windows|January 14, 2003}} | ||
{{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|June 30, 2003}} | {{Infobox game/row/date|OS X|June 30, 2003}} | ||
+ | |taxonomy = | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/monetization | One-time game purchase, Expansion pack, Cross-game bonus, Subscription gaming service }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/microtransactions | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/modes | Singleplayer }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/pacing | Real-time }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/perspectives | Bird's-eye view }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/controls | Point and select }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/genres | Building, Simulation }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/sports | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/vehicles | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/art styles | }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/themes | Contemporary }} | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/taxonomy/series | SimCity }} | ||
+ | |reception = | ||
+ | {{Infobox game/row/reception|Metacritic|simcity-4|84}} | ||
|steam appid = 24780 | |steam appid = 24780 | ||
|gogcom id = 1207664593 | |gogcom id = 1207664593 | ||
+ | |hltb = 8560 | ||
+ | |igdb = simcity-4 | ||
+ | |lutris = simcity-4-deluxe | ||
|strategywiki = SimCity 4 | |strategywiki = SimCity 4 | ||
− | |mobygames = | + | |mobygames = 7999 |
|wikipedia = SimCity 4 | |wikipedia = SimCity 4 | ||
|winehq = 4088 | |winehq = 4088 | ||
|license = commercial | |license = commercial | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | |||
− | ''' | + | {{Introduction |
− | {{ | + | |introduction = |
− | + | ||
− | + | |release history = The game received the '''''Rush Hour''''' expansion pack in September 2003, and the two products would be bundled as the '''''Deluxe Edition''''' in retail and digital stores. The Steam and GOG.com releases of the ''Deluxe Edition'' would receive additional compatibility tweaks, but the Origin/EA App release would use an obsolete build until June 2023, when it was synchronized with the other digital versions.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://simtarkus.wordpress.com/2023/06/01/breaking-news-ea-updates-ea-app-ea-play-version-of-simcity-4-to-version-1-1-641/|title=Breaking News: EA Updates EA App/EA Play Version of SimCity 4 to Version 1.1.641 | SimTarkus - SimCity 4|date=2023-10-20}}</ref> | |
− | + | ||
+ | |current state = The game was designed only with a single processor core in mind, and running on multi-core processors [[#Crashes on multi-core systems|causes crashes]] unless a [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]] forcing single-core affinity is used. Additionally, the [[#Poor performance on modern systems|hardware renderer performs poorly]] on present-day systems, requiring manual hardware recognition changes or falling back to the software renderer. | ||
+ | }} | ||
'''General information''' | '''General information''' | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
{{mm}} [http://community.simtropolis.com/ Simtropolis Forum] | {{mm}} [http://community.simtropolis.com/ Simtropolis Forum] | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/ SC4 Devotion Forum] | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://www.reddit.com/r/simcity4/ /r/simcity4] subreddit | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://simcity.fandom.com/wiki/SimCity_4 SimCity 4 on the SimCity Wiki] | ||
{{GOG.com links|1207664593|simcity_series|for game series}} | {{GOG.com links|1207664593|simcity_series|for game series}} | ||
{{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/24780/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions] | {{mm}} [https://steamcommunity.com/app/24780/discussions/ Steam Community Discussions] | ||
Line 37: | Line 56: | ||
==Availability== | ==Availability== | ||
{{Availability| | {{Availability| | ||
− | {{Availability/row| Retail | | disc, key | {{DRM|SafeDisc}}. | Origin | Windows | + | {{Availability/row| Retail | | disc, key | {{DRM|SafeDisc}}. Released on 2 CDs. | Origin | Windows, OS X }} |
− | |||
{{Availability/row| GOG.com | simcity_4_deluxe_edition | DRM-free | Deluxe Edition. | | Windows }} | {{Availability/row| GOG.com | simcity_4_deluxe_edition | DRM-free | Deluxe Edition. | | Windows }} | ||
− | {{Availability/row| GMG | simcity-4-deluxe-edition-mac | Steam | Deluxe Edition. | | Windows, OS X }} | + | {{Availability/row| GMG | simcity-4-deluxe-edition-mac | Steam | Deluxe Edition. Incorrectly states it is incompatible with newer macOS versions.<ref>{{Refcheck|user=Mrtnptrs|date=2023-01-18|comment=As it is just a code you buy for the Steam version, which supports 64-bit and ARM now, it should fully work on macOS 10.15+. Just like on here, GMG probably has an automated system in place to add this warning when system requirements indicate it is 32-bit only. So, likely they forgot to update their system requirements after the 64-bit update in 2020.}}</ref> | | Windows, OS X }} |
− | {{Availability/row| MacApp | id804079949 | MacApp | Deluxe Edition. | + | {{Availability/row| MacApp | id804079949 | MacApp | Deluxe Edition. 2014 re-release with modifications to improve compatibility. | | OS X }} |
− | {{Availability/row| Origin | simcity/simcity-4 | Origin | Deluxe Edition. Included with {{Store feature| | + | {{Availability/row| Microsoft Store | 9NGDQGHWZX13 | Microsoft Store, Origin | Deluxe Edition. Included exclusively with {{Store feature|Xbox Game Pass}} as part of its version of EA Play. | | Windows }} |
− | {{Availability/row| Steam | 24780 | Steam | Deluxe Edition. Includes 2014 OS X | + | {{Availability/row| Origin | simcity/simcity-4 | Origin | Deluxe Edition. Included with {{Store feature|EA Play}}.<br>[https://www.ea.com/games/simcity/simcity-4 Manual link for EA App purchase]. | | Windows }} |
+ | {{Availability/row| Steam | 24780 | Steam | Deluxe Edition. Includes 2014 OS X re-release. Included with {{store feature|EA Play}}. | | Windows, OS X }} | ||
+ | {{Availability/row| Amazon | B00457VJ3G | DRM-free | Deluxe Edition. Download (DRM-free) or retail (Disk key). | | Windows | unavailable }} | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{++}} Retail keys can be [https://www.origin.com/us/account#redeem-product redeemed on Origin].<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://answers.ea.com/t5/Miscellaneous-Issues/SimCity-4-Register-retail-copy-of-Sim-City-4-with-Origin/td-p/280612|title=answers.ea.com|date=May 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Refurl|url=http://archive.is/y7leO|title=You can actually activate some Steam games on EA Origin - Steam Users' Forums|date=May 2023}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{ii}} A faithful, higher quality icon can be found on [https://www.steamgriddb.com/icon/47121 SteamGridDB]. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===Version differences=== | ||
+ | {{ii}} The '''Deluxe Edition''' which includes the base game and the Rush Hour expansion pack, and has the highest compatibility with mods and other fixes.<ref>http://community.simtropolis.com/topic/25419-faqs-and-download-links-for-nam-rhw-and-nwm/#entry685177</ref> Steam and GOG.com versions also have additional tweaks applied. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ==Monetization== | ||
+ | {{Monetization | ||
+ | |ad-supported = | ||
+ | |cross-game bonus = Characters from [[The Sims]] 1 can be imported to fill the streets. | ||
+ | |dlc = | ||
+ | |expansion pack = The expansion pack includes disasters, customization options, vehicle control mode and related missions, and new transportation options. | ||
+ | |freeware = | ||
+ | |free-to-play = | ||
+ | |one-time game purchase = The game requires an upfront purchase to access. | ||
+ | |sponsored = | ||
+ | |subscription = | ||
+ | |subscription gaming service = Available via [[EA Play]]. | ||
}} | }} | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
{{DLC| | {{DLC| | ||
Line 55: | Line 91: | ||
==Essential improvements== | ==Essential improvements== | ||
===Patches=== | ===Patches=== | ||
− | {{ | + | {{mm}} The latest official patches for the base game (v272) and Rush Hour (v638 and v640) are available on [https://www.gamefront.com/games/simcity-4/category/official-patches-129 GameFront] and [https://community.simtropolis.com/sc4-maxis-files/ simtropolis.com]. |
− | + | {{--}} Patch 641 is exclusive to the digital versions of the Deluxe Edition. | |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
===Skip intro videos=== | ===Skip intro videos=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Run the game with the <code>-intro:off</code> [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]]|ref=<ref name="refcheck Plok">{{Refcheck|user=Plok|date=2022-02-15|comment=}}</ref>|fix= |
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
Line 71: | Line 102: | ||
{{ii}} Launcher utility that can be installed. | {{ii}} Launcher utility that can be installed. | ||
{{++}} Combines autosaving (customisable intervals), renderer choice (DirectX, Software, OpenGL), CPU priority, [[#Single CPU affinity|single CPU affinity]], [[#Widescreen resolution|widescreen resolution]], [[#Windowed|windowed]], borderless-windowed, [[#Skip intro videos|skip intro videos]], simple mod manager and an ATI/AMD graphics card fix into a single launcher program. | {{++}} Combines autosaving (customisable intervals), renderer choice (DirectX, Software, OpenGL), CPU priority, [[#Single CPU affinity|single CPU affinity]], [[#Widescreen resolution|widescreen resolution]], [[#Windowed|windowed]], borderless-windowed, [[#Skip intro videos|skip intro videos]], simple mod manager and an ATI/AMD graphics card fix into a single launcher program. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ====[https://www.techpowerup.com/forums/threads/large-address-aware.112556/ Large Address Aware]==== | ||
+ | Improves stability on systems with at least 3 GB RAM by allowing the application to use more than 2 GB RAM. | ||
====Combined launch options==== | ====Combined launch options==== | ||
− | {{ii}} Single line of code to be added to 'Target' field of the shortcut or to | + | {{ii}} Single line of code to be added to 'Target' field of the shortcut or to digital client [[Glossary:Command line arguments|launch options]]. |
{{++}} Combines [[#Widescreen resolution|widescreen resolution]], [[#Windowed|windowed]], [[#Single CPU affinity|single CPU affinity]], [[#Skip intro videos|skip intro videos]]. | {{++}} Combines [[#Widescreen resolution|widescreen resolution]], [[#Windowed|windowed]], [[#Single CPU affinity|single CPU affinity]], [[#Skip intro videos|skip intro videos]]. | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Use the following set of [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line arguments]]: <code>-CustomResolution:enabled -r1920x1080x32 -w -CPUCount:1 -intro:off</code>|ref=<ref name="refcheck Plok"/>|fix= |
− | |||
− | <code>-CustomResolution:enabled -r1920x1080x32 -w -CPUCount:1 -intro:off</code> | ||
'''Notes''' | '''Notes''' | ||
− | {{++}} Also use [http://grismar.net/shiftwindow/ ShiftWindow] in order to enable [[#Video | + | {{++}} Also use [http://grismar.net/shiftwindow/ ShiftWindow] in order to enable [[#Video|Borderless fullscreen windowed]] mode for seamless {{key|alt|tab}}-ing and fullscreen view. |
}} | }} | ||
===[http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/26793-network-addon-mod-for-windows/ NAM: Network Addon Mod]=== | ===[http://www.simtropolis.com/forum/files/file/26793-network-addon-mod-for-windows/ NAM: Network Addon Mod]=== | ||
− | {{++}} Extensively reworks | + | {{++}} Extensively reworks the road system, improves traffic simulator, pathfinding and performance. |
− | {{ | + | {{ii}} Requires at least version 1.1.638; digital releases are compatible by default.<ref>[https://simtarkus.wordpress.com/2014/08/27/psa-simcity-4-deluxe-is-now-safe-to-buy-on-origin/ PSA: SimCity 4 Deluxe is now safe to buy on Origin | SimTarkus - SimCity 4]</ref> |
===[https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/30883-sc4fix-third-party-patches-for-sc4/ SC4Fix: Third Party Patches]=== | ===[https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/30883-sc4fix-third-party-patches-for-sc4/ SC4Fix: Third Party Patches]=== | ||
− | {{++}} A third party DLL that fixes hard-coded bugs and crashes like the infamous 'prop pox' bug<ref> | + | {{++}} A third party DLL that fixes hard-coded bugs and crashes like the infamous 'prop pox' bug<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://community.simtropolis.com/forums/topic/74667-revisiting-prop-pox-and-prop-theory/Revisiting|title=Prop Pox and Prop Theory|date=May 2023}}</ref> and crashes when hovering NAM puzzle pieces. |
{{++}} Helps revive and repair cities affected by the 'prop pox' bug. | {{++}} Helps revive and repair cities affected by the 'prop pox' bug. | ||
+ | |||
+ | ====Experiencing issues on Apple ARM devices==== | ||
+ | {{mm}} When running the default variant of the game on Steam on Apple ARM hardware, users may encounter issues. Aspyr officially released a new version that added native Apple ARM support on January 12, 2023.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://support.aspyr.com/hc/en-us/articles/5715420742541-M1-Compatibility-Updates|title=M1 Compatibility Updates|date=2023-01-18}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{ii}} The Mac App Store version updates automatically to this new version when appropriate since update 1.2.2.<ref name=newmac>{{Refurl|url=https://apps.apple.com/nl/app/simcity-4-deluxe-edition/id804079949|title=SimCity 4 Deluxe Edition- Version History - Mac App Store|date=2023-01-18|snippet=SimCity™ 4 Deluxe Edition is now optimized for Mac with Apple Silicon.}}</ref> | ||
+ | {{Fixbox|description=Steam: switch to Apple ARM branch|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://support.aspyr.com/hc/en-us/articles/12168615035405-How-to-access-the-Apple-Silicon-update-on-Mac-Steam-SimCity-4-Deluxe-Edition|title=How to access the Apple Silicon update on Mac Steam - SimCity 4: Deluxe Edition – Aspyr Support|date=2023-01-18}}</ref> | ||
+ | |fix= | ||
+ | {{ii}} Old MacOS-port is still available as the default option on Steam, requiring Apple ARM users to switch to a Steam Beta branch to acquire the update. | ||
+ | # In the Steam Library, right-click on '''SimCity 4 Deluxe'''. | ||
+ | # Click on '''Properties''' | ||
+ | # Click on '''Beta'''. | ||
+ | # Type <code>applesilicon</code> into the beta access code field. | ||
+ | # Click on '''Check Code'''. | ||
+ | # Click on '''Opt-in'''. | ||
+ | # Wait for the app to update. | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | ===[https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/32812-save-warning Save Warning]=== | ||
+ | {{++}} Visually alters the UI button labels for Save and Exit (and Save and Quit), to highlight the risk of using this one-step method. | ||
+ | {{ii}} Two options are included. The first option disables that choice completely. The second simply renames the buttons, but continues to perform the same function as before. | ||
==Game data== | ==Game data== | ||
Line 97: | Line 148: | ||
{{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\SimCity 4\}} | {{Game data/config|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\SimCity 4\}} | ||
{{Game data/config|OS X|}} | {{Game data/config|OS X|}} | ||
+ | {{Game data/config|Mac App Store|}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 102: | Line 154: | ||
{{Game data| | {{Game data| | ||
{{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\SimCity 4\Regions\}} | {{Game data/saves|Windows|{{p|userprofile\Documents}}\SimCity 4\Regions\}} | ||
− | {{Game data/saves|OS X| | + | {{Game data/saves|OS X|{{p|osxhome}}/Documents/SimCity 4/Regions/}} |
+ | {{Game data/saves|Mac App Store|{{p|osxhome}}/Library/Containers/com.aspyr.simcity4.appstore/Data/Documents/SimCity 4/Regions/}} | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{--}} Beware of issues when using [[#Duplicate cities moved|multiple duplicate cities]]. | {{--}} Beware of issues when using [[#Duplicate cities moved|multiple duplicate cities]]. | ||
Line 108: | Line 161: | ||
===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Save game cloud syncing|Save game cloud syncing]]=== | ||
{{Save game cloud syncing | {{Save game cloud syncing | ||
− | |discord | + | |discord = |
− | |discord notes | + | |discord notes = |
− | |epic games | + | |epic games launcher = |
− | |epic games | + | |epic games launcher notes = |
− | |gog galaxy | + | |gog galaxy = false |
− | |gog galaxy notes | + | |gog galaxy notes = |
− | |origin | + | |origin = false |
− | |origin notes | + | |origin notes = |
− | |steam cloud | + | |steam cloud = false |
− | |steam cloud notes | + | |steam cloud notes = |
− | | | + | |ubisoft connect = |
− | | | + | |ubisoft connect notes = |
− | |xbox cloud | + | |xbox cloud = false |
− | |xbox cloud notes | + | |xbox cloud notes = |
}} | }} | ||
− | ==Video | + | ==Video== |
{{Image|SimCity 4 Graphics Settings.png|Graphics settings.}} | {{Image|SimCity 4 Graphics Settings.png|Graphics settings.}} | ||
{{Image|SimCity 4 Game Settings.png|Gameplay settings.}} | {{Image|SimCity 4 Game Settings.png|Gameplay settings.}} | ||
− | {{Video | + | {{Video |
|wsgf link = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/simcity-4 | |wsgf link = https://www.wsgf.org/dr/simcity-4 | ||
|widescreen wsgf award = silver | |widescreen wsgf award = silver | ||
|multimonitor wsgf award = silver | |multimonitor wsgf award = silver | ||
|ultrawidescreen wsgf award = incomplete | |ultrawidescreen wsgf award = incomplete | ||
− | |4k ultra hd wsgf award = | + | |4k ultra hd wsgf award = silver |
|widescreen resolution = hackable | |widescreen resolution = hackable | ||
|widescreen resolution notes= See [[#Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]. | |widescreen resolution notes= See [[#Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]. | ||
Line 139: | Line 192: | ||
|ultrawidescreen = unknown | |ultrawidescreen = unknown | ||
|ultrawidescreen notes = | |ultrawidescreen notes = | ||
− | |4k ultra hd = | + | |4k ultra hd = hackable |
− | |4k ultra hd notes = | + | |4k ultra hd notes = Hardware rendering (DirectX/OpenGL) for any resolution above 2048x1152 will cause crashing on launch. For software rendering see [[#SC4Launcher|SC4Launcher]]. |
|fov = n/a | |fov = n/a | ||
|fov notes = Uses an Orthographic Projection camera, rendering FOV modification pointless. | |fov notes = Uses an Orthographic Projection camera, rendering FOV modification pointless. | ||
Line 151: | Line 204: | ||
|antialiasing = false | |antialiasing = false | ||
|antialiasing notes = | |antialiasing notes = | ||
− | |vsync = | + | |vsync = always on |
|vsync notes = | |vsync notes = | ||
− | |60 fps = | + | |60 fps = true |
|60 fps notes = | |60 fps notes = | ||
− | |120 fps = | + | |120 fps = true |
|120 fps notes = | |120 fps notes = | ||
− | |hdr = | + | |hdr = false |
|hdr notes = | |hdr notes = | ||
− | |color blind = | + | |color blind = false |
|color blind notes = | |color blind notes = | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 165: | Line 218: | ||
===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Widescreen resolution|Widescreen resolution]]=== | ||
{{++}} The GOG.com version has this done automatically. | {{++}} The GOG.com version has this done automatically. | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Run the game with the followind [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line arguments]]: <code>-CustomResolution:enabled -r1920x1080x32</code>|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.widescreengaming.net/wiki/SimCity_4|title=widescreengaming.net|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix= |
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
+ | |||
+ | {{ii}} By using [https://www.sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=18734.0 DxWrapper], it is possible to play at resolutions beyond the 2048x1152 limit that DirectX 7 has. | ||
===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Windowed|Windowed]]=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Run the game with the {{code|-w}} [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line argument]] (or {{code|-f}} to revert)|ref=<ref name="refcheck Plok"/>|fix= |
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
− | ==Input | + | ==Input== |
− | {{Input | + | {{Input |
|key remap = hackable | |key remap = hackable | ||
|key remap notes = See [[#Remapping|Remapping]]. | |key remap notes = See [[#Remapping|Remapping]]. | ||
|acceleration option = n/a | |acceleration option = n/a | ||
|acceleration option notes = | |acceleration option notes = | ||
− | |mouse sensitivity = | + | |mouse sensitivity = false |
|mouse sensitivity notes = | |mouse sensitivity notes = | ||
|mouse menu = true | |mouse menu = true | ||
Line 241: | Line 292: | ||
===[[Glossary:Remapping|Remapping]]=== | ===[[Glossary:Remapping|Remapping]]=== | ||
− | Hotkeys and similar key bindings are stored in plaintext KEYCFG files in simcity_1.dat. A tool like [http://sourceforge.net/projects/ilive-reader/ Ilive Reader] must be used to edit these. | + | {{ii}} Hotkeys and similar key bindings are stored in plaintext {{file|KEYCFG}} files in {{file|simcity_1.dat}}. A tool like [http://sourceforge.net/projects/ilive-reader/ Ilive Reader] must be used to edit these. |
− | ==Audio | + | ==Audio== |
{{Image|SimCity 4 Audio Settings.png|Audio settings.}} | {{Image|SimCity 4 Audio Settings.png|Audio settings.}} | ||
− | {{Audio | + | {{Audio |
|separate volume = true | |separate volume = true | ||
|separate volume notes = Music and General Sound sliders | |separate volume notes = Music and General Sound sliders | ||
|surround sound = true | |surround sound = true | ||
− | |surround sound notes = Up to 7.0 output.<ref> | + | |surround sound notes = Up to 7.0 output.<ref>{{Refurl|url=https://satsun.org/audio/|title=PC Gaming Surround Sound Round-up|date=May 2023}}</ref> |
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |subtitles notes = | + | |subtitles notes = No intelligible dialog. All in-game dialog uses the fictional [[wikipedia:Simlish|Simlish language]]. |
− | |closed captions = | + | |closed captions = n/a |
|closed captions notes = | |closed captions notes = | ||
− | |mute on focus lost = | + | |mute on focus lost = always on |
|mute on focus lost notes = | |mute on focus lost notes = | ||
|eax support = | |eax support = | ||
|eax support notes = | |eax support notes = | ||
+ | |royalty free audio = always on | ||
+ | |royalty free audio notes = | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 273: | Line 326: | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Simplified Chinese |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = Chinese retail only. |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Traditional Chinese |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = Chinese retail only. |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Czech |
+ | |interface = hackable | ||
+ | |audio = n/a | ||
+ | |subtitles = n/a | ||
+ | |notes = Fan - [https://www.abcgames.cz/?p=preklady_zobraz&id=5979 1] [https://www.abcgames.cz/?p=preklady_zobraz&id=6660 Deluxe Edition] [https://www.abcgames.cz/?p=preklady_zobraz&id=6532 Rush Hour] | ||
+ | |fan = true | ||
+ | }} | ||
+ | {{L10n/switch | ||
+ | |language = Danish | ||
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
Line 297: | Line 358: | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Dutch |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
Line 305: | Line 366: | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Finnish |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = European retail and GOG.com release. |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = French |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
Line 321: | Line 382: | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = German |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
Line 329: | Line 390: | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Italian |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Japanese |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = Japanese retail and Steam OS X versions only. |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Korean |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = Korean retail only. |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Norwegian |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
Line 361: | Line 422: | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Polish |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = European retail and GOG.com release. For other releases use [https://steamcommunity.com/sharedfiles/filedetails/?id=258003484 this guide]. |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Brazilian Portuguese |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = Local retail, European retail and GOG.com release. |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Spanish |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
{{L10n/switch | {{L10n/switch | ||
− | |language = | + | |language = Swedish |
|interface = true | |interface = true | ||
|audio = n/a | |audio = n/a | ||
|subtitles = n/a | |subtitles = n/a | ||
− | |notes = | + | |notes = |
|fan = | |fan = | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 407: | Line 468: | ||
{{--}} Aspyr released a beta of a patch to fix the problems in 2007, but the patch was never finalized and many bugs remain. Some have a serious impact on playability, including frequent crashes if a city exceeds 95,000 population, flawed display of the water surface, frequent blurring or replacement of objects with random other objects, and an inability to significantly accelerate the vehicle in driving mode that prevents many gameplay features from being unlocked. Another patch arrived in 2014, followed by a patch to that in 2015. | {{--}} Aspyr released a beta of a patch to fix the problems in 2007, but the patch was never finalized and many bugs remain. Some have a serious impact on playability, including frequent crashes if a city exceeds 95,000 population, flawed display of the water surface, frequent blurring or replacement of objects with random other objects, and an inability to significantly accelerate the vehicle in driving mode that prevents many gameplay features from being unlocked. Another patch arrived in 2014, followed by a patch to that in 2015. | ||
{{--}} OS X 10.9 (Mavericks) and later can render the game completely unplayable, even with the later patches. Running the Windows version in [[Wine]] or a Virtual Machine, or the original Mac release on a PowerPC Mac generally gives a more convenient and reliable result. | {{--}} OS X 10.9 (Mavericks) and later can render the game completely unplayable, even with the later patches. Running the Windows version in [[Wine]] or a Virtual Machine, or the original Mac release on a PowerPC Mac generally gives a more convenient and reliable result. | ||
− | {{ | + | {{ii}} It is unknown in the later patches from 2014, 2015 and 2020 (added 64-bit support) fixed the major bugs described here with this port. |
===Integer overflow=== | ===Integer overflow=== | ||
Line 414: | Line 475: | ||
==Issues fixed== | ==Issues fixed== | ||
===Crashes on multi-core systems=== | ===Crashes on multi-core systems=== | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Single CPU affinity|ref=<ref> | + | {{Fixbox|description=Single CPU affinity|ref=<ref>{{Refurl|url=http://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Sim-City-4-Crashing|title=this tutorial|date=May 2023}}</ref>|fix= |
{{--}} May reduce performance. | {{--}} May reduce performance. | ||
If running retail or Origin version, set the 'Target' field of the shortcut or add to Steam launch options:<code>-CPUCount:1</code> | If running retail or Origin version, set the 'Target' field of the shortcut or add to Steam launch options:<code>-CPUCount:1</code> | ||
Line 442: | Line 503: | ||
# Download, install and run [[GPU-Z]]. | # Download, install and run [[GPU-Z]]. | ||
# Copy down what is listed as the "Device ID" as well as the card's name. | # Copy down what is listed as the "Device ID" as well as the card's name. | ||
− | ## The "Device ID" is a number that identifies | + | ## The "Device ID" is a number that identifies the card, as well as the manufacturer. |
− | ## For example, if <code>10DE-1086</code> is the Device ID, 0x10DE identifies the card's vendor, and 0x1086 identifies | + | ## For example, if <code>10DE-1086</code> is the Device ID, 0x10DE identifies the card's vendor, and 0x1086 identifies the card. |
− | + | # Within the game's installation folder, open {{file|Graphics Rules.sgr}} with a text editor. | |
− | # Within the installation folder, open | ||
# Locate the line <code>partialRule "Fast card" -any</code> within the file | # Locate the line <code>partialRule "Fast card" -any</code> within the file | ||
# Add your own card's name in the list, separating the vendor and the card with asterisks. | # Add your own card's name in the list, separating the vendor and the card with asterisks. | ||
## For example, <code>stringMatch cardIdentity "ATI*HD 4800 Series*"</code> | ## For example, <code>stringMatch cardIdentity "ATI*HD 4800 Series*"</code> | ||
# Save and close the file. | # Save and close the file. | ||
− | # In the same folder, open | + | # In the same folder, open {{file|Video Cards.sgr}} with the text editor of your choice. |
− | # Locate the header featuring | + | # Locate the header featuring the card's vendor (and vendor ID). |
# Add your card in under the header, preferably in numerical order. | # Add your card in under the header, preferably in numerical order. | ||
## For example, <code>card 0x1086 "Nvidia GeForce GTX 560"</code> | ## For example, <code>card 0x1086 "Nvidia GeForce GTX 560"</code> | ||
Line 460: | Line 520: | ||
# Check "Hardware" under the "Rendering" header. | # Check "Hardware" under the "Rendering" header. | ||
− | + | This may fix your problems in-game. If not, try experimenting with some of the graphics options in-game. If none of these options work, use software rendering in order to achieve a playable experience. | |
− | This may fix your problems in-game. If not, try | ||
If you are using an AMD Radeon HD 7000 Series graphics card, also implement [[SimCity 4#Details disappear when scrolling|Details disappear when scrolling]]. | If you are using an AMD Radeon HD 7000 Series graphics card, also implement [[SimCity 4#Details disappear when scrolling|Details disappear when scrolling]]. | ||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
− | |||
}} | }} | ||
Line 482: | Line 534: | ||
{{ii}} Be sure the installation of SimCity 4 is updated to the latest version. Updating it afterwards will remove the fix. | {{ii}} Be sure the installation of SimCity 4 is updated to the latest version. Updating it afterwards will remove the fix. | ||
{{++}} This fix removes outdated compatibility options that impair performance. | {{++}} This fix removes outdated compatibility options that impair performance. | ||
− | # Open GraphicsRules.sgr in the installation folder | + | # Open {{file|GraphicsRules.sgr}} in the installation folder with a text editor. |
# Search for the line <code>stringMatch cardIdentity "*7?00*"</code> | # Search for the line <code>stringMatch cardIdentity "*7?00*"</code> | ||
# Modify the line so it reads <code>stringMatch cardIdentity "*Radeon 7?00*"</code> | # Modify the line so it reads <code>stringMatch cardIdentity "*Radeon 7?00*"</code> | ||
− | This will stop | + | This will stop the modern card from triggering a compatibility check designed for the original Radeon 7000 series, forcing settings that make the game perform badly. |
}} | }} | ||
Alternatively, this can be resolved by installing the [http://community.simtropolis.com/topic/54082-simcity-4-launcher-updated-140b-r7/ SC4Launcher Utility]. Once installed, run the launcher and navigate to the 'Hardware & Audio' tab. Enable the option 'Force Draw on Scroll' by checking the tick box. This should resolve the issue completely and will remain fixed regardless of whether the game is started with this custom launcher or through running the normal SimCity 4 executable. | Alternatively, this can be resolved by installing the [http://community.simtropolis.com/topic/54082-simcity-4-launcher-updated-140b-r7/ SC4Launcher Utility]. Once installed, run the launcher and navigate to the 'Hardware & Audio' tab. Enable the option 'Force Draw on Scroll' by checking the tick box. This should resolve the issue completely and will remain fixed regardless of whether the game is started with this custom launcher or through running the normal SimCity 4 executable. | ||
Line 493: | Line 545: | ||
===API=== | ===API=== | ||
{{API | {{API | ||
− | |direct3d versions = 7 | + | |direct3d versions = 7.0 |
|direct3d notes = | |direct3d notes = | ||
− | |directdraw versions = 7 | + | |directdraw versions = 7.0 |
|directdraw notes = | |directdraw notes = | ||
|opengl versions = | |opengl versions = | ||
Line 513: | Line 565: | ||
|windows 32-bit exe = true | |windows 32-bit exe = true | ||
|windows 64-bit exe = false | |windows 64-bit exe = false | ||
+ | |windows arm app = false | ||
|windows exe notes = | |windows exe notes = | ||
|mac os x powerpc app = true | |mac os x powerpc app = true | ||
|macos intel 32-bit app = true | |macos intel 32-bit app = true | ||
− | |macos intel 64-bit app = | + | |macos intel 64-bit app = true |
− | |macos app notes = | + | |macos arm app = true |
+ | |macos app notes = Original MacOS port: a patch to support Intel chips released in 2007, but due to [[#OS X and Intel CPU major flaws|major problems]] it is not recommended.<br>2014 re-release: 64-bit support was added on February 19, 2020. [[#Experiencing issues on Apple ARM devices|Native ARM support was added on January 12, 2023.]]. | ||
}} | }} | ||
Line 523: | Line 577: | ||
{{--}} If two or more copies of the same city exist in the Region folder upon starting SimCity 4, the game uses only one version and the other city copies are either deleted or automatically moved to the Downloads folder. | {{--}} If two or more copies of the same city exist in the Region folder upon starting SimCity 4, the game uses only one version and the other city copies are either deleted or automatically moved to the Downloads folder. | ||
{{--}} SimCity 4 determines which file to use by sorting the city file names alphabetically and taking the first entry. | {{--}} SimCity 4 determines which file to use by sorting the city file names alphabetically and taking the first entry. | ||
− | {{--}} If | + | {{--}} If copies of cities in the same region folder exist, e.g. {{file|City - TEST 1.sc4}} and {{file|City - TEST 2.sc4}}, then only {{file|City - TEST 1.sc4}} will be kept, and {{file|City - TEST 2.sc4}} will either get deleted or will be moved to the {{folder|Downloads}} folder. |
===Launch options=== | ===Launch options=== | ||
− | More | + | {{mm}} More [[Glossary:Command line arguments|command line arguments]] can be found on [https://wiki.sc4devotion.com/index.php?title=Shortcut_Parameters SC4Devotion]. Please be aware that by using the {{code|-UserDir}} argument, changes made in any in-game options may not be saved properly. |
===Change language=== | ===Change language=== | ||
Line 538: | Line 592: | ||
* Thai (Thailand version) | * Thai (Thailand version) | ||
The availability of these sets depends on where the game was purchased, or where the purchaser's billing address states in the case of Digital Distribution. | The availability of these sets depends on where the game was purchased, or where the purchaser's billing address states in the case of Digital Distribution. | ||
− | {{Fixbox|description=Change language through launch options|ref=<ref>http://www.wiki.sc4devotion.com/index.php?title=Tutorial:Shortcut_Parameters</ref>|fix= | + | {{Fixbox|description=Change language through launch options|ref=<ref>https://web.archive.org/web/20180124135634/http://www.wiki.sc4devotion.com/index.php?title=Tutorial:Shortcut_Parameters</ref><ref>https://wiki.sc4devotion.com/index.php?title=Shortcut_Parameters</ref>|fix= |
− | |||
− | |||
<code>-l:english</code> or <code>-l:french</code>, etc. | <code>-l:english</code> or <code>-l:french</code>, etc. | ||
Line 561: | Line 613: | ||
===Mod recommendations=== | ===Mod recommendations=== | ||
− | {{mm}} [https://sites.google.com/site/sc4modds/ sc4modds] - full list of mods from [https://www.reddit.com/r/SimCity/ /r/SimCity] community. | + | {{mm}} [https://web.archive.org/web/20211014084109/https://sites.google.com/site/sc4modds/ sc4modds] - full list of mods from [https://www.reddit.com/r/SimCity/ /r/SimCity] community. |
{{mm}} [https://www.reddit.com/r/SimCity/comments/102cuf/awesome_essential_sc4_mods_updated/ Reddit thread - September 17, 2012] | {{mm}} [https://www.reddit.com/r/SimCity/comments/102cuf/awesome_essential_sc4_mods_updated/ Reddit thread - September 17, 2012] | ||
{{mm}} [https://www.reddit.com/r/SimCity/comments/orbt2/the_super_ultimate_awesome_essential_sc4_mod/ Reddit thread - January 22, 2012] | {{mm}} [https://www.reddit.com/r/SimCity/comments/orbt2/the_super_ultimate_awesome_essential_sc4_mod/ Reddit thread - January 22, 2012] | ||
− | ===[ | + | ===[https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/30956-colossus-addon-mod Colossus Addon Mod (CAM)]=== |
{{ii}} A significant and popular mod developed by the community at [http://sc4devotion.com SC4 Devotion]. | {{ii}} A significant and popular mod developed by the community at [http://sc4devotion.com SC4 Devotion]. | ||
{{++}} Rewrites and improves how cities and regions grow by including more 'lots' or building transition stages, and increases population density. | {{++}} Rewrites and improves how cities and regions grow by including more 'lots' or building transition stages, and increases population density. | ||
− | {{++}} Compatible with [[#NAM:_Network_Addon_Mod|NAM: Network Addon Mod]] | + | {{++}} Compatible with [[#NAM:_Network_Addon_Mod|NAM: Network Addon Mod]]. |
===Tools=== | ===Tools=== | ||
− | + | {{mm}} [http://www.thehobbykingdom.com/forum/default.aspx?g=posts&t=3621 SimCity 4 Auto Saver] - autosave program for SimCity 4 that will automatically save the game while playing; superseded by the [[#SC4Launcher|SC4Launcher]]. | |
− | + | {{mm}} [http://sc4devotion.com/csxlex/lex_filedesc.php?lotGET=731 SC4Terraformer] - this is a widely used tool that can render custom maps designed and built within the program. | |
− | + | {{mm}} [http://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/27675-sc4datanode/ SC4DataNode] - this is a tool that checks the plugins folder, analyzes it, and reports if any mods are missing dependencies. | |
+ | |||
+ | ===Fixes=== | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/33601-texture-fix-of-jenkins-consulting-maxis Texture Fix of Jenkins Consulting] - fixes invisible textures on the sides of "Jenkins Consulting" building. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/33277-r-traffic-noise-fix-v1 R$$ Traffic Noise Fix] - fixes a bug where R$$ buildings show "High" Traffic Noise although very little traffic is nearby. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/31023-michiyls-uv-map-fix-for-maxis-monorail-models UV Map Fix for Maxis Monorail Models] - fixes texture positioning for the Maxis monorail models. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/28810-fire-plane-udi-mission-fix Fire Plane UDI Mission Fix] - fixes Fire Plane UDI mission so it is possible to obtain a Zoo as reward as it should be from start. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/11154-all-3-cityhalls-modd-reward-fix All 3 CityHalls Modd Reward Fix] - fixes all CityHalls to appear in the game at separate intervals as rewards. It is an older mod that may be superseded by a [https://community.simtropolis.com/forums/topic/761100-2nd-beta-all-3-city-halls-fixes-1-for-modpacc-zero much more recent one]. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/28786-carpool-incentive-program-ordinance-fix Carpool Incentive Program Ordinance Fix] - fixes bugged ordinance (which, unmodded, has no effect on pollution or traffic) by applying a 10% reduction in pollution caused by traffic. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/28618-piggyback-freight-car-fix Piggyback Freight Car Fix] - fixes positioning for the Freights on the rails. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/27340-space-port-fix-mod Space Port Fix] - fixes a problem with the default Maxis Space Port, which claims it "Provides a boost to high-tech industry" however, it does not. Maxis forgot to include this boost, therefore it boosts nothing but costs and some slight commercial desirability. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/30836-hippotank-demand-fix HippoTank Demand Fix] - fixes the demand values for the Medical Clinic, Solar Power Plant, Nuclear Power Plant. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/22771-ih-missing-jobs-fix-update IH Missing $$$ Jobs Fix] - fixes IH lots, so they offer 12% $$$ jobs instead of the originally designed but missing 10% $$$ jobs, reducing $$ jobs by 2% to 78% at the same time so the sum remains 100%. Comes with the [[#Colossus Addon Mod (CAM)|CAM]] mod. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/15048-diagonal-jagged-edges-mod Diagonal Jagged Edges Fix] - changes the way the game renders cliffs to make certain diagonal roads look more natural. The tradeoff is that more "cliffs" will show in the terrain. When installing this mod, only use one of the provided .dat files. This mod may conflict with other terrain mods. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/13478-area-51-air-force-base-no-exclusion Area 5.1 Air Force Base No Exclusion Fix] - allows both Area 5.1 and the Air Force Base to be built in the same city. (This may have been an intentional restriction, and may not technically be a bug.) Requires the appropriate [https://community.simtropolis.com/sc4-maxis-files/ Maxis Landmark Building] to be installed. | ||
+ | {{mm}} [https://community.simtropolis.com/files/file/21342-opera-house-fix Opera House Fix] - fixes the Opera House's capacity. | ||
==System requirements== | ==System requirements== | ||
Line 581: | Line 648: | ||
|minOS = 98, ME, 2000, XP | |minOS = 98, ME, 2000, XP | ||
|minCPU = Intel Pentium III 500 MHz or equivalent | |minCPU = Intel Pentium III 500 MHz or equivalent | ||
− | |minRAM = 128 MB | + | |minRAM = 128 MB <br /> 256 MB (XP) |
|minHD = 1 GB | |minHD = 1 GB | ||
|minGPU = | |minGPU = | ||
|minDX = 7.0 | |minDX = 7.0 | ||
− | |minVRAM = 32 | + | |minVRAM = 32 MB |
|recCPU = 1 GHz or faster | |recCPU = 1 GHz or faster | ||
Line 593: | Line 660: | ||
{{System requirements | {{System requirements | ||
|OSfamily = OS X | |OSfamily = OS X | ||
− | |ref = <ref> | + | |ref = <ref>{{Refurl|url=https://www.aspyr.com/games/simcity-4-deluxe-edition|title=SimCity™ 4: Deluxe Edition - Aspyr|date=9 June 2023}}</ref> |
|minOS = 10.8.5 | |minOS = 10.8.5 | ||
Line 600: | Line 667: | ||
|minHD = 2 GB | |minHD = 2 GB | ||
|minGPU = Nvidia GeForce 8800 series | |minGPU = Nvidia GeForce 8800 series | ||
− | |minGPU2 = | + | |minGPU2 = ATI Radeon HD 3870 |
|minGPU3 = Intel HD Graphics 3000 | |minGPU3 = Intel HD Graphics 3000 | ||
|minVRAM = 256 MB | |minVRAM = 256 MB |
Latest revision as of 09:48, 8 September 2024
Developers | |
---|---|
Maxis | |
macOS (OS X) | i5works[1][2] |
Publishers | |
Electronic Arts | |
OS X | Aspyr Media |
Release dates | |
Windows | January 14, 2003 |
macOS (OS X) | June 30, 2003 |
Reception | |
Metacritic | 84 |
Taxonomy | |
Monetization | One-time game purchase, Expansion pack, Cross-game bonus, Subscription gaming service |
Modes | Singleplayer |
Pacing | Real-time |
Perspectives | Bird's-eye view |
Controls | Point and select |
Genres | Building, Simulation |
Themes | Contemporary |
Series | SimCity |
SimCity | |
---|---|
Subseries of Sim | |
SimCity (1989) | 1989 |
SimCity 2000 | 1994 |
SimCity 2000 Network Edition | 1996 |
SimCopter | 1996 |
Streets of SimCity | 1997 |
SimCity 3000 | 1999 |
SimCity 4 | 2003 |
SimCity Societies | 2007 |
SimCity (2013) | 2013 |
SimCity 4 is a singleplayer bird's-eye view building and simulation game in the SimCity series.
The game received the Rush Hour expansion pack in September 2003, and the two products would be bundled as the Deluxe Edition in retail and digital stores. The Steam and GOG.com releases of the Deluxe Edition would receive additional compatibility tweaks, but the Origin/EA App release would use an obsolete build until June 2023, when it was synchronized with the other digital versions.[3]
The game was designed only with a single processor core in mind, and running on multi-core processors causes crashes unless a command line argument forcing single-core affinity is used. Additionally, the hardware renderer performs poorly on present-day systems, requiring manual hardware recognition changes or falling back to the software renderer.
General information
- Simtropolis Forum
- SC4 Devotion Forum
- /r/simcity4 subreddit
- SimCity 4 on the SimCity Wiki
- GOG.com Community Discussions for game series
- GOG.com Support Page
- Steam Community Discussions
Availability
Source | DRM | Notes | Keys | OS |
---|---|---|---|---|
Retail | SafeDisc DRM[Note 1]. Released on 2 CDs. | |||
GOG.com | Deluxe Edition. | |||
Green Man Gaming | Deluxe Edition. Incorrectly states it is incompatible with newer macOS versions.[6] | |||
Mac App Store | Deluxe Edition. 2014 re-release with modifications to improve compatibility. | |||
Microsoft Store | Deluxe Edition. Included exclusively with Xbox Game Pass for PC as part of its version of EA Play. | |||
Origin | Deluxe Edition. Included with EA Play. Manual link for EA App purchase. |
|||
Steam | Deluxe Edition. Includes 2014 OS X re-release. Included with EA Play (Steam). | |||
Amazon.com (unavailable) | Deluxe Edition. Download (DRM-free) or retail (Disk key). |
- SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows Vista and later (see above for affected versions).
- Retail keys can be redeemed on Origin.[7][8]
- A faithful, higher quality icon can be found on SteamGridDB.
Version differences
- The Deluxe Edition which includes the base game and the Rush Hour expansion pack, and has the highest compatibility with mods and other fixes.[9] Steam and GOG.com versions also have additional tweaks applied.
Monetization
Type | Notes |
---|---|
Cross-game bonus | Characters from The Sims 1 can be imported to fill the streets. |
Expansion pack | The expansion pack includes disasters, customization options, vehicle control mode and related missions, and new transportation options. |
One-time game purchase | The game requires an upfront purchase to access. |
Subscription gaming service | Available via EA Play. |
DLC and expansion packs
Name | Notes | |
---|---|---|
Rush Hour | Included in the Deluxe Edition. |
Essential improvements
Patches
- The latest official patches for the base game (v272) and Rush Hour (v638 and v640) are available on GameFront and simtropolis.com.
- Patch 641 is exclusive to the digital versions of the Deluxe Edition.
Skip intro videos
Run the game with the -intro:off command line argument[10]
|
---|
Launching game on modern systems
SC4Launcher
- Launcher utility that can be installed.
- Combines autosaving (customisable intervals), renderer choice (DirectX, Software, OpenGL), CPU priority, single CPU affinity, widescreen resolution, windowed, borderless-windowed, skip intro videos, simple mod manager and an ATI/AMD graphics card fix into a single launcher program.
Large Address Aware
Improves stability on systems with at least 3 GB RAM by allowing the application to use more than 2 GB RAM.
Combined launch options
- Single line of code to be added to 'Target' field of the shortcut or to digital client launch options.
- Combines widescreen resolution, windowed, single CPU affinity, skip intro videos.
Use the following set of command line arguments: -CustomResolution:enabled -r1920x1080x32 -w -CPUCount:1 -intro:off [10]
|
---|
Notes
|
NAM: Network Addon Mod
- Extensively reworks the road system, improves traffic simulator, pathfinding and performance.
- Requires at least version 1.1.638; digital releases are compatible by default.[11]
SC4Fix: Third Party Patches
- A third party DLL that fixes hard-coded bugs and crashes like the infamous 'prop pox' bug[12] and crashes when hovering NAM puzzle pieces.
- Helps revive and repair cities affected by the 'prop pox' bug.
Experiencing issues on Apple ARM devices
- When running the default variant of the game on Steam on Apple ARM hardware, users may encounter issues. Aspyr officially released a new version that added native Apple ARM support on January 12, 2023.[13]
- The Mac App Store version updates automatically to this new version when appropriate since update 1.2.2.[14]
Steam: switch to Apple ARM branch[15] |
---|
|
Save Warning
- Visually alters the UI button labels for Save and Exit (and Save and Quit), to highlight the risk of using this one-step method.
- Two options are included. The first option disables that choice completely. The second simply renames the buttons, but continues to perform the same function as before.
Game data
Configuration file(s) location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | %USERPROFILE%\Documents\SimCity 4\ |
macOS (OS X) | |
Mac App Store | |
Steam Play (Linux) | <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/24780/pfx/[Note 2] |
Save game data location
System | Location |
---|---|
Windows | %USERPROFILE%\Documents\SimCity 4\Regions\ |
macOS (OS X) | $HOME/Documents/SimCity 4/Regions/ |
Mac App Store | $HOME/Library/Containers/com.aspyr.simcity4.appstore/Data/Documents/SimCity 4/Regions/ |
Steam Play (Linux) | <SteamLibrary-folder>/steamapps/compatdata/24780/pfx/[Note 2] |
- Beware of issues when using multiple duplicate cities.
Save game cloud syncing
System | Native | Notes |
---|---|---|
GOG Galaxy | ||
Origin | ||
OneDrive | Requires enabling backup of the Documents folder in OneDrive on all computers. | |
Steam Cloud | ||
Xbox Cloud |
Video
Graphics feature | State | WSGF | Notes |
---|---|---|---|
Widescreen resolution | See Widescreen resolution. | ||
Multi-monitor | See the WSGF entry. | ||
Ultra-widescreen | |||
4K Ultra HD | Hardware rendering (DirectX/OpenGL) for any resolution above 2048x1152 will cause crashing on launch. For software rendering see SC4Launcher. | ||
Field of view (FOV) | Uses an Orthographic Projection camera, rendering FOV modification pointless. | ||
Windowed | See Windowed. | ||
Borderless fullscreen windowed | Working using ShiftWindow.[16] | ||
Anisotropic filtering (AF) | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
Anti-aliasing (AA) | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
Vertical sync (Vsync) | See the glossary page for potential workarounds. | ||
60 FPS and 120+ FPS | |||
High dynamic range display (HDR) |
Widescreen resolution
- The GOG.com version has this done automatically.
Run the game with the followind command line arguments: -CustomResolution:enabled -r1920x1080x32 [17]
|
---|
- By using DxWrapper, it is possible to play at resolutions beyond the 2048x1152 limit that DirectX 7 has.
Windowed
Run the game with the -w command line argument (or -f to revert)[10]
|
---|
Input
Keyboard and mouse | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Remapping | See Remapping. | |
Mouse acceleration | ||
Mouse sensitivity | ||
Mouse input in menus | ||
Mouse Y-axis inversion | ||
Controller | ||
Controller support |
Controller types |
---|
Remapping
- Hotkeys and similar key bindings are stored in plaintext
KEYCFG
files insimcity_1.dat
. A tool like Ilive Reader must be used to edit these.
Audio
Audio feature | State | Notes |
---|---|---|
Separate volume controls | Music and General Sound sliders | |
Surround sound | Up to 7.0 output.[18] | |
Subtitles | No intelligible dialog. All in-game dialog uses the fictional Simlish language. | |
Closed captions | ||
Mute on focus lost | ||
Royalty free audio |
Localizations
- Language choice determines display language and which side of the road cars drive on.
- The language can be forced if needed but only if the release being used includes that language (see Change language).
Language | UI | Audio | Sub | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
English | Some releases also include UK English (cars drive on the left). | |||
Simplified Chinese | Chinese retail only. | |||
Traditional Chinese | Chinese retail only. | |||
Czech | Fan - 1 Deluxe Edition Rush Hour | |||
Danish | ||||
Dutch | ||||
Finnish | European retail and GOG.com release. | |||
French | ||||
German | ||||
Italian | ||||
Japanese | Japanese retail and Steam OS X versions only. | |||
Korean | Korean retail only. | |||
Norwegian | European retail and GOG.com release. | |||
Polish | European retail and GOG.com release. For other releases use this guide. | |||
Brazilian Portuguese | Local retail, European retail and GOG.com release. | |||
Spanish | ||||
Swedish | ||||
Thai | Thai retail only. |
Issues unresolved
OS X and Intel CPU major flaws
- Major flaws when operating on computers by Apple using Intel processors.
- Aspyr released a beta of a patch to fix the problems in 2007, but the patch was never finalized and many bugs remain. Some have a serious impact on playability, including frequent crashes if a city exceeds 95,000 population, flawed display of the water surface, frequent blurring or replacement of objects with random other objects, and an inability to significantly accelerate the vehicle in driving mode that prevents many gameplay features from being unlocked. Another patch arrived in 2014, followed by a patch to that in 2015.
- OS X 10.9 (Mavericks) and later can render the game completely unplayable, even with the later patches. Running the Windows version in Wine or a Virtual Machine, or the original Mac release on a PowerPC Mac generally gives a more convenient and reliable result.
- It is unknown in the later patches from 2014, 2015 and 2020 (added 64-bit support) fixed the major bugs described here with this port.
Integer overflow
An integer overflow bug is also present in the game. Under certain conditions, the Junior Sports Program and Parks and Recreation expense items will be a negative value - thus adding to the end of month balance instead of reducing it.
Issues fixed
Crashes on multi-core systems
Single CPU affinity[19] |
---|
If running retail or Origin version, set the 'Target' field of the shortcut or add to Steam launch options: |
Menu option to enable software renderer[citation needed] |
---|
|
Target line to enable software renderer[citation needed] |
---|
If running retail or Origin version, set the 'Target' field of the shortcut or add to Steam launch options: |
Poor performance on modern systems
- Running SimCity 4 on modern systems may result in large performance problems.
Add GPU device ID to list of recognised cards[20][21] |
---|
This may fix your problems in-game. If not, try experimenting with some of the graphics options in-game. If none of these options work, use software rendering in order to achieve a playable experience. If you are using an AMD Radeon HD 7000 Series graphics card, also implement Details disappear when scrolling. |
Error message: "Could not initialize graphics card"
SimCity 4 may crash on startup while reporting an error that claims that SimCity 4 was unable to initialize the graphics card, this may occur when using a hardware-accelerated rendering mode and a non-standard resolution. Changing the rendering mode to "software" or changing the resolution to one of the supported resolutions (800x600, 1024x768, 1280x1024, 1600x1200) should resolve this issue.
Details disappear when scrolling
- On some AMD/ATI graphics cards users may find that scrolling the view will cause entities and details to temporarily disappear, including lots appearing completely empty until scrolling stops.
Repair Radeon 7000 Series detection[20][21] |
---|
This will stop the modern card from triggering a compatibility check designed for the original Radeon 7000 series, forcing settings that make the game perform badly. |
Alternatively, this can be resolved by installing the SC4Launcher Utility. Once installed, run the launcher and navigate to the 'Hardware & Audio' tab. Enable the option 'Force Draw on Scroll' by checking the tick box. This should resolve the issue completely and will remain fixed regardless of whether the game is started with this custom launcher or through running the normal SimCity 4 executable.
Other information
API
Technical specs | Supported | Notes |
---|---|---|
Direct3D | 7 | |
DirectDraw | 7.0 | |
Software renderer |
Executable | PPC | 32-bit | 64-bit | ARM | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Windows | |||||
macOS (OS X) | Original MacOS port: a patch to support Intel chips released in 2007, but due to major problems it is not recommended. 2014 re-release: 64-bit support was added on February 19, 2020. Native ARM support was added on January 12, 2023.. |
Duplicate cities moved
- If two or more copies of the same city exist in the Region folder upon starting SimCity 4, the game uses only one version and the other city copies are either deleted or automatically moved to the Downloads folder.
- SimCity 4 determines which file to use by sorting the city file names alphabetically and taking the first entry.
- If copies of cities in the same region folder exist, e.g.
City - TEST 1.sc4
andCity - TEST 2.sc4
, then onlyCity - TEST 1.sc4
will be kept, andCity - TEST 2.sc4
will either get deleted or will be moved to theDownloads
folder.
Launch options
- More command line arguments can be found on SC4Devotion. Please be aware that by using the
-UserDir
argument, changes made in any in-game options may not be saved properly.
Change language
- Language choice determines display language and which side of the road cars drive on.
- Supported languages sets include:
- English and Spanish (North American version)
- UK English, French, German, Spanish, Danish, Dutch, Finnish, Italian, Norwegian, Polish, Portuguese and Swedish (European version)
- Traditional Chinese and Simplified Chinese (Chinese version)
- Korean (Korean version)
- Japanese (Japanese version)
- Thai (Thailand version)
The availability of these sets depends on where the game was purchased, or where the purchaser's billing address states in the case of Digital Distribution.
Change language through launch options[22][23] |
---|
Notes
|
Change language through regedit[24] |
---|
A detailed guide can be found on the SimCity Devotion thread by RippleJet. |
- The game also recognises Czech, Hebrew, Greek and Russian, however no official translations were ever released and no community translations have been made, possibly due to lack of compatible font sets.
Mods
- Mods may require dependencies.
Mod resources
- Simtropolis - an extremely active modding community, hosts the ST/Exchange (SimTropolisEXchange).
- SC4 Devotion - a very active modding community, hosts the LEX (Lot Exchange).
- Thread listing all possible settings and customisations
Mod recommendations
- sc4modds - full list of mods from /r/SimCity community.
- Reddit thread - September 17, 2012
- Reddit thread - January 22, 2012
Colossus Addon Mod (CAM)
- A significant and popular mod developed by the community at SC4 Devotion.
- Rewrites and improves how cities and regions grow by including more 'lots' or building transition stages, and increases population density.
- Compatible with NAM: Network Addon Mod.
Tools
- SimCity 4 Auto Saver - autosave program for SimCity 4 that will automatically save the game while playing; superseded by the SC4Launcher.
- SC4Terraformer - this is a widely used tool that can render custom maps designed and built within the program.
- SC4DataNode - this is a tool that checks the plugins folder, analyzes it, and reports if any mods are missing dependencies.
Fixes
- Texture Fix of Jenkins Consulting - fixes invisible textures on the sides of "Jenkins Consulting" building.
- R$$ Traffic Noise Fix - fixes a bug where R$$ buildings show "High" Traffic Noise although very little traffic is nearby.
- UV Map Fix for Maxis Monorail Models - fixes texture positioning for the Maxis monorail models.
- Fire Plane UDI Mission Fix - fixes Fire Plane UDI mission so it is possible to obtain a Zoo as reward as it should be from start.
- All 3 CityHalls Modd Reward Fix - fixes all CityHalls to appear in the game at separate intervals as rewards. It is an older mod that may be superseded by a much more recent one.
- Carpool Incentive Program Ordinance Fix - fixes bugged ordinance (which, unmodded, has no effect on pollution or traffic) by applying a 10% reduction in pollution caused by traffic.
- Piggyback Freight Car Fix - fixes positioning for the Freights on the rails.
- Space Port Fix - fixes a problem with the default Maxis Space Port, which claims it "Provides a boost to high-tech industry" however, it does not. Maxis forgot to include this boost, therefore it boosts nothing but costs and some slight commercial desirability.
- HippoTank Demand Fix - fixes the demand values for the Medical Clinic, Solar Power Plant, Nuclear Power Plant.
- IH Missing $$$ Jobs Fix - fixes IH lots, so they offer 12% $$$ jobs instead of the originally designed but missing 10% $$$ jobs, reducing $$ jobs by 2% to 78% at the same time so the sum remains 100%. Comes with the CAM mod.
- Diagonal Jagged Edges Fix - changes the way the game renders cliffs to make certain diagonal roads look more natural. The tradeoff is that more "cliffs" will show in the terrain. When installing this mod, only use one of the provided .dat files. This mod may conflict with other terrain mods.
- Area 5.1 Air Force Base No Exclusion Fix - allows both Area 5.1 and the Air Force Base to be built in the same city. (This may have been an intentional restriction, and may not technically be a bug.) Requires the appropriate Maxis Landmark Building to be installed.
- Opera House Fix - fixes the Opera House's capacity.
System requirements
Windows | ||
---|---|---|
Minimum | Recommended | |
Operating system (OS) | 98, ME, 2000, XP | |
Processor (CPU) | Intel Pentium III 500 MHz or equivalent | 1 GHz or faster |
System memory (RAM) | 128 MB 256 MB (XP) |
256 MB |
Hard disk drive (HDD) | 1 GB | |
Video card (GPU) | 32 MB of VRAM DirectX 7.0 compatible |
macOS (OS X) | ||
---|---|---|
Minimum[25] | ||
Operating system (OS) | 10.8.5 | |
Processor (CPU) | Intel Core 2 Duo 2.2 GHz | |
System memory (RAM) | 4 GB | |
Hard disk drive (HDD) | 2 GB | |
Video card (GPU) | Nvidia GeForce 8800 series ATI Radeon HD 3870 Intel HD Graphics 3000 256 MB of VRAM |
Notes
- ↑ SafeDisc retail DRM does not work on Windows 10[4] or Windows 11 and is disabled by default on Windows Vista, Windows 7, Windows 8, and Windows 8.1 when the KB3086255 update is installed.[5]
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 Notes regarding Steam Play (Linux) data:
- File/folder structure within this directory reflects the path(s) listed for Windows and/or Steam game data.
- Use Wine's registry editor to access any Windows registry paths.
- The app ID (24780) may differ in some cases.
- Treat backslashes as forward slashes.
- See the glossary page for details on Windows data paths.
References
- ↑ Aspyr: SimCity 4 now in duplication - Macworld - last accessed on 2016-7-23
- ↑ Inside Mac Games Review: SimCity 4 - last accessed on 2016-7-23
- ↑ Breaking News: EA Updates EA App/EA Play Version of SimCity 4 to Version 1.1.641 - last accessed on 2023-10-20
- ↑ Not Loading in Windows 10; this will break thousands of - Microsoft Community - last accessed on 2017-01-16
- ↑ Microsoft - MS15-097: Description of the security update for the graphics component in Windows: September 8, 2015 - last accessed on 2018-02-16
- ↑ Verified by User:Mrtnptrs on 2023-01-18
- As it is just a code you buy for the Steam version, which supports 64-bit and ARM now, it should fully work on macOS 10.15+. Just like on here, GMG probably has an automated system in place to add this warning when system requirements indicate it is 32-bit only. So, likely they forgot to update their system requirements after the 64-bit update in 2020.
- ↑ answers.ea.com - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ You can actually activate some Steam games on EA Origin - Steam Users' Forums - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ http://community.simtropolis.com/topic/25419-faqs-and-download-links-for-nam-rhw-and-nwm/#entry685177
- ↑ 10.0 10.1 10.2 Verified by User:Plok on 2022-02-15
- ↑ PSA: SimCity 4 Deluxe is now safe to buy on Origin | SimTarkus - SimCity 4
- ↑ Prop Pox and Prop Theory - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ M1 Compatibility Updates - last accessed on 2023-01-18
- ↑ SimCity 4 Deluxe Edition- Version History - Mac App Store - last accessed on 2023-01-18
- "SimCity™ 4 Deluxe Edition is now optimized for Mac with Apple Silicon."
- ↑ How to access the Apple Silicon update on Mac Steam - SimCity 4: Deluxe Edition – Aspyr Support - last accessed on 2023-01-18
- ↑ Verified by User:Andytizer on March 12, 2013
- ↑ widescreengaming.net - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ PC Gaming Surround Sound Round-up - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ this tutorial - last accessed on May 2023
- ↑ 20.0 20.1 http://community.simtropolis.com/topic/33931-how-to-configure-sc4-to-work-with-your-new-hardware/
- ↑ 21.0 21.1 http://community.simtropolis.com/topic/28564-software-or-hardware/
- ↑ https://web.archive.org/web/20180124135634/http://www.wiki.sc4devotion.com/index.php?title=Tutorial:Shortcut_Parameters
- ↑ https://wiki.sc4devotion.com/index.php?title=Shortcut_Parameters
- ↑ http://sc4devotion.com/forums/index.php?topic=3961.0
- ↑ SimCity™ 4: Deluxe Edition - Aspyr - last accessed on 9 June 2023