by Joe McCloud

If you're like me, you've probably often wished to immerse yourself in some way into the cities created using SimCity 2000. What would it be like to walk along a street inside your virtual city? What would you say if you encountered a sim-resident? I know Maxis believes that the creator of a city is essentially the Sim-Mayor, but I'd probably say something along the lines of, "I am your supreme deity! I created you and this city you live in and can destroy it just as easily! Bow down to me, you virtual mortal!" Think about it: In a sense, you are a god-like being.

Maxis has brought us one step closer to that reality with the announcement of its next "Sim" title, The Streets of SimCity. In this game, up to eight players will be able to compete in a traditional race, a combat game, or what's being called the "Combat Courier" game. All these games will take place in one of 50 pre-built 3D cities, or can also be played within personal cities built using SimCity 2000. How cool is that? My instincts say, "Pretty darned cool."

In the traditional game, there will be a starting point and a finish line. Players will then drive from point to point. The thing that makes this race unique, however, is that you'll be playing in a true 3D city--with no rails. You'll be able to take whatever path they choose to win the race. In the combat game, the last one standing wins. Players will be able to stock their cars with armor plating, weapons, and other equipment options to make the combat more challenging. My favorite game option is the idea behind the "Combat Courier" game. This will send you on different missions located around the city, and you'll be given a cash reward depending on how quick you complete each assignment. Sound easy? Well, try completing a mission with seven other players blasting the living stuff out of you so they can get the higher cash reward! Money obtained in this mode will allow users to purchase new equipment like oil slicks, tacks, better tires, and better engines.