Cities: Skylines - Snowfall (PC) Review

Like After Dark before it, Snowfall's changes are subtle at first. Loading up an existing file might result in no visible changes, but things become clear once citizens start complaining about the cold. Temperature is now embedded in the game's UI, and to keep citizens warm, pipes must be upgraded to allow for hot water to flow, as well as connected to a building that can produce heat. From a gameplay standpoint, that's about the only thing that changes; existing save files will take a huge hit to the in-game wallet to upgrade the water system, or else citizens will be upset while they slowly freeze. A few other minor tweaks exist, like trams and new messages given out by citizens, but the heat system is the main draw of Snowfall.

The other big change brought on is the update in graphics. Some of the maps include snowy landscapes, and when it snows, citizens will go out less, which can have subtle effects on gameplay and the economy. Roads must be kept clear of snow, another nice touch. While this is sleek and beautiful, it's also locked to these specific maps, and existing cities will get cold but never snow, while cities built in the snow maps won't ever see summer. It's an odd choice, and unlike the new mechanics, doesn't make much sense.