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The Amiga version of this urban planning simulation deservedly received a Gold Medal last issue. Now the C64 game's here (unfortunately only on disk) with quite a few omissions.

As in the 16-bit game, the general idea is to make a city grow by allocating residential, commercial or industrial zones for the Sim Citizens to build in. Power must be supplied along with roads to link the various zones - there is no rail option in this version. Within a tight budget (here the tax rate is fixed) you must attempt to keep the people happy (although there is no evaluation screen, the only indicators being the map and graph) while expanding the city.

As well as building a city from scratch you can attempt one of the eight scenarios - this typically involves rebuilding a city after a natural disaster.

This comes as something of a disappointment after the classic Amiga game. The large number of omissions has reduced play to just zoning and building roads - the lack of budget and evaluation screens is a major flaw.

Still, the basic concept is kept intact, retaining a fair bit of the Amiga version's immense addictiveness. Sim City is a highly original game that's definitely worth a look.

Mainly monochromatic graphics make C64 Sim City look initially unattractive, but when large cities are built up they do look quite realistic (i.e. drab). The lack of some of the Amiga game's most fundamental features, however, is a problem. It's difficult to get totally absorbed in the game when you have no control of finances and little idea of your popularity.

Still, what is here remains very playable, providing an intriguing and lengthy challenge to C64 owners.

Presentation 82%
Easy-to-use icons, plus a reduced but still good range of options.

Graphics 60%
Detailed but lacking colour.

Sound 18%
Functional beeps!

Hookability 72%
Tricky to get into but quite compulsive.

Lastability 82%
Eight scenarios plus an infinite variety of new cities.

Overall 76%
Lacking some important options but still a fascinating concept.