General What’s the Best City Builder of All Time?

City builders have come a long way, from the early days of SimCity to the detailed, sprawling metropolises of Cities: Skylines. Some focus on deep simulation, others on economy and trade, and some just throw you into survival mode and see if you can keep everyone from starving.

So, what’s the best city builder of all time?

• SimCity 4 – Even after two decades, some still consider this the gold standard. Deep simulation, proper regional play, and a modding scene that refuses to die.
• Cities: Skylines – Picked up where SimCity (2013) failed and ran with it. Massive cities, endless customization, and a solid balance between complexity and accessibility.
• Anno 1800 – Economy-driven city-building with a focus on trade, supply chains, and industry. Less about road layouts, more about making your empire thrive.
• Tropico – A city builder with a sense of humour, where you don’t just build—you rule. Balancing politics, corruption, and keeping your citizens (mostly) happy adds a unique twist.
• Banished – A brutal, survival-focused city builder where one bad winter or food shortage can wipe out everything. No room for mistakes.

Which one stands out as the best? Is it the depth, the challenge, the aesthetics, or just personal nostalgia that makes it your favourite?

Well, I haven't played SimCity 4 but I know this is one of the most loved city builder games of all time. Cities: Skylines definitely is my favorite and I believe this is one of the best city builder games of all time. It offers modern mechanics and endless creativity.