Cities Skylines 2 has established a solid foundation, yet Colossal Order faces the challenge of fulfilling its potential. As we mark two years since its launch, the game currently holds a ‘mixed’ rating on Steam, with a score of just 53%. The upcoming Bridges and Ports expansion, priced at , aims to enhance water-based construction, but after experiencing two significant delays, it carries high expectations from the player community.
Expansion Details
The Bridges and Ports DLC was postponed for a second time in May, as Colossal Order determined it did not meet their quality standards. In a strategic move, the developer redirected resources from the highly anticipated asset editor to ensure the expansion’s timely release. Now, four months later, the expansion is set to debut at the end of this month, promising to enrich gameplay with new coastal features, including fresh maps showcasing peninsulas, bays, and expansive lakes.
Players can look forward to fully customizable harbors, designed to handle increased traffic and production. New facilities such as ore yards, storage units, and customs offices will enhance operational efficiency. Commercial opportunities will also expand with the introduction of passenger terminals, maritime museums, conference centers, and dedicated emergency response units. The maritime industry will see growth with options for fishing piers, open-water fishing boats, offshore farms, and oil fields.
To facilitate connectivity, Colossal Order has introduced 20 variants of drawbridges and lift bridges, accommodating both road vehicles and rail traffic. These movable structures will not only allow ships to navigate through but will also present new challenges in traffic management. Additionally, ferries will provide an alternative means of transportation for commuters.
To capitalize on the new aquatic features, players can establish shoreline resorts with various leisure piers, nine new park types, and quays that range from simple paths to multi-lane highways. The Bridges and Ports expansion boasts over 100 new assets, including four lighthouse variants, one of which serves as a tourist attraction.
While the expansion appears promising in promotional materials, Cities Skylines 2 finds itself at a crossroads. Performance issues persist on older systems, traffic patterns remain erratic, and the asset editor, along with bicycle features, remains sidelined until the launch of this DLC. Although the best mods can enhance gameplay, they will need to adapt to the changes introduced by Bridges and Ports. The upcoming expansion must prove its worth to regain player trust and justify its price tag.
Cities Skylines 2: Bridges and Ports is scheduled for release on Wednesday, October 29, priced at .99 / £16.99. A bundle option including the ‘Cold Wave Channel’ radio station will be available for .49 / £18.89. For those eager to explore the new water-based features, further details can be found online.
As the launch approaches, players are encouraged to share their thoughts and expectations for the new DLC on platforms like the PCGamesN Discord, where discussions with staff and fellow enthusiasts are welcomed.
