EA Confirms Worldwide Summer Release For SimCity DS

Major publisher and developer Electronic Arts has officially announced plans to release SimCity DS worldwide this summer, as well as detailing some of the game's unique features afforded by the capabilities of the Nintendo DS. The game, which is currently in development with a Japanese studio through the EA Partners program, will allow players to design and construct miniature cities while leveraging off of the portable's touchscreen and other capabilities. Taking advantage of the Nintendo DS's touch screen and microphone, Sim City DS will allow players to interact with their cities in new ways, such as by blowing into the microphone to put out fires or signing off on mayoral proclamations with the stylus. In addition, the handheld's wireless functions will allow players to exchange data with each other, though it remains uncertain exactly what kinds of data will be allowed to be traded in this manner. The SimCity series itself has enjoyed a long and storied history dating back to its debut for multiple computer platforms in 1989. However, this latest games mark only the second time the franchise has been represented on a portable following Sim City 2000's release for the Game Boy Advance in 2003. “We are very excited to bring the SimCity experience to the Nintendo DS platform,” said the game's producer Takahiro Murakami. “The unique Nintendo DS functionalities inspired us to incorporate many new features to delight the most dedicated SimCity fans. The game is filled with fun surprises that will appeal to new and existing fans of the franchise.”