An upcoming free update for SimCity will implement the much-requested offline single-player mode, the game's developer has confirmed.

In a new blog entry posted on the official SimCity website, Maxis general manager Patrick Buechner confirmed the new offline mode will be released "soon".

"When we launch [the update], all of your previously downloaded content will be available to you anytime, anywhere, without the need for an internet connection," he said.

"In Update 10, you can still play solo in Regions on your own, or in Multiplayer with people from around the world. What's new is the Single Player Mode, which allows you to play the game Offline by yourself.

"And because your saved games in this mode are stored locally, you can save and load to your heart's content."

During SimCity's March 2013 release window Maxis and EA were heavily criticised for requiring a permanent internet connection to play the game, as its servers struggled to operate under strong launch demand, thus rendering the title unplayable for many.

At the time, Maxis general manager Lucy Bradshaw stated in a tweet that an offline version of SimCity was "just not possible".

The offline mode news follows the recent posting of SimCity modding rules, in which Maxis and EA laid out the policies regarding user-created content.

"Bringing the game Offline means big things for our wonderful community of Modders," Buechner added. "They can now make modifications to the game and its components without compromising the integrity of the Online game. Modding is a big part of our studio's legacy and we're excited to see what you guys create."

Posted: Jan 13, 2014 4:02 pm
Related Forum: PC Gaming Forum

Source: http://www.computerandvideogames.com/444944/simcity-to-update-with-much-requested-offline-mode/