Update on Cities: Skylines 2 console release and asset editor frustrates urban planners

Long after its October 2023 release, Cities: Skylines 2 has yet to satisfy most fans of the metropolis building series. Poor performance, shallow gameplay, and missing features have kept many players committed to its predecessor. Today, Paradox Interactive posted another discouraging update on its official forums. Cities: Skylines 2 PS5 and Xbox Series X players shouldn't expect a console release before the summer. Also, creators still have no firm date on the availability of an asset editor.

The Cities: Skylines 2 console debut was expected in October 2024. However, after the PC version received a rocky reception, Paradox focused on addressing these concerns. Despite some improvements, the city builder continues to tax even capable gaming PCs. The developers have struggled to optimize the game sufficiently to run smoothly on the PS5 or Xbox Series X.

Porting complex strategy and simulation titles to consoles is often challenging. Not only are they resource hogs, but the same controls and interfaces don't always work on multiple platforms. Civilization 7 is a recent example of a UI that fails to please PC and console players. Given the slow progress of Cities: Skylines 2, some gamers are skeptical that it will reach consoles at all.

The other disappointment for Cities: Skylines 2 is with its long overdue asset editor. Paradox is currently separating it from the Unity Engine to make running the tool smoother. While Cities: Skylines 2 mods exist, unique buildings and objects may not work when the official editor is ready.

A more complete game in many ways, Cities: Skylines boasts an equal or higher Steam player count as its sequel. The title also has several console versions that offer a respectable simulation experience. Paradox's latest Cities: Skylines 2 update won't encourage many players to upgrade.