Lego Skylines is already looking like a treat, but I suspect the real magic's in the stuff Paradox won't talk about just yet
How's this for an unhelpful opener: in a lot of ways, Lego Skylines is exactly what you think it is; but in others, it's probably not. Conceptually, it's a winner, of course - a city builder built with Lego! - and yet it takes things unexpectedly far. But also there's a lot that publisher Paradox and developer Iceflake Studios are keeping quiet for now, and I suspect it's in these…
Lego Skylines is currently generating a lot of anticipation, but I believe the true magic lies in aspects Paradox and developer Iceflake Studios are still concealing. Conceptually, this city-building game is built upon a Lego foundation, and it deviates from expectations in some surprising ways. Publisher Paradox and Iceflake Studios are keeping many details under wraps, which I suspect are the elements that will truly make the game shine. Let me provide you with an account of my hands-on experience!
Upon starting the game, you take a boat ride to an unspoiled island on your very first day as a Master Builder. Almost immediately, you are tasked with building a house for a family eager to settle on the island. This unlocks a selection of small home prefabs, ready to be placed in the world. Lego Skylines initially offers a city-building experience at a more personal level, with requests from cheerful Lego inhabitants driving progress.
The integration of the Lego brand allows for creative expression, as you can decorate gardens with various Lego-made items. As you expand your town, you'll find yourself building roads, farms, shops, and more, all contributing to your township's tax income and satisfying your citizens' desires. Each citizen has unique Flavour preferences, influencing the types of decorations you use.
The game's aesthetic charm is further enhanced by tiny Lego people performing various activities, adding a lively atmosphere to the world.
Despite its playful appearance, Iceflake Studios' Lasse Liljedahl emphasizes that Lego Skylines is a sophisticated city builder for adults, not a game for children. The complexity is higher than typical city-building titles, but the developers assure that it's not limited to a younger audience. As you progress, you'll encounter challenges such as rubbish collection, recycling, ground pollution, noise pollution, and the need for educational facilities, childcare, and elder care.
Specializations in culture, sport, and science are available, along with larger end-game buildings like stadiums. Transportation and communication systems, including buses, railroads, and radio towers, are also incorporated. While the game features a variety of progression systems, including milestones and XP accumulation, Liljedahl assures that the game is designed to provide core amenities regardless of your chosen play style.
Even after just a short time, I was impressed by the scale, ambition, and distinct personality of Lego Skylines.
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