SimTower

Maxis has long been a well known name in software. Most software owners have tried their hand at one of the "Sim" programs at one time or another. While I was first rather frustrated with "SimTower" I quickly found I was thoroughly enjoying creating my own little universe. I have actually left my tower running and can't wait to go back and see what the little guys have been up to.

Rather than the overwhelming task of creating an entire city as in "SimCity," here you have a more intimate look at the world you are creating by working on just one or two large skyscrapers. It is your task as the 'landlord' to develop a building with all of the amenities which will keep your tenants happy. You must decide where to place offices and how much office space is needed. This must be weighed against the need to condo space and a layout which will promote a peaceful living environment. Just as when you build an entire city, you must consider transportation needs. Here they are in the form of stairways and elevators. There is nothing more frustrating than waiting for an elevator, and your tenants will certainly let you know if they are unhappy! Although you are only given the most basic choices (elevators, office, condo and fast food) when you begin the game, as your building progresses you are given more freedom to add laundry facilities and more advanced amenities.

The most unique aspect of the Maxis programs is that they continue to exist without your interference. Once you have built a basic structure, people will move in on their own and begin to 'live' their lives. You watch as they move around the building and carry on their day to day activities. The screen even changes from day to night as the calendar changes. With your magnifying glass you can zero in on one person, see what they are doing and even give that person a name. Later if you want to find out where that person is you can use the search capabilities to track down your friends. If you leave your building in a semi-secure state, you can leave your computer and come back later to see what they have done. Condo's sell, businesses succeed and fail and office space turns over without your even being involved. I found the feel of this program much more intimate than "SimCity."

The Maxis "Sim" programs are already considered 'classics' in almost anyone's opinion. This program now available to Windows users for the first time will no doubt be added to the list of 'SimClassics.' The learning curve at the very beginning is a bit steep, but once you have the hang of it, the program is a lot of fun. Anyone over the age of ten will enjoy this program.

SimTower Grading:

Educational value- 3
Entertainment value- 4
Use of medium- 4
Age- 10+

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