List of City-building games on DOS

Step into the realm of MS-DOS City-Building games, where creativity, strategy, and urban planning come together to construct virtual cities. The City-Building genre offers an immersive experience of building and managing cities, shaping landscapes, and nurturing civilization. In this article, we’ll define the essence of City-Building games on MS-DOS, delve into the first popular titles, and compile a list of the most exceptional City-Building games that have left a significant impact on the platform.


Defining the City-Building Genre:

The City-Building genre focuses on constructing and managing cities, from infrastructure and resources to the well-being of citizens. These games challenge players to balance economic, social, and environmental factors while creating thriving urban centers. On the historic platform of MS-DOS, City-Building games provided players with a canvas to shape and nurture their own digital civilizations.

Early Popular City-Building Games on MS-DOS:

  • SimCity (1989): A pioneering title that allowed players to design, build, and manage their own virtual cities, while dealing with various challenges and scenarios.
  • Caesar (1992): This game transported players to ancient Rome, tasking them with constructing and governing cities in the Roman Empire.
  • Pharaoh (1999): Building upon the success of Caesar, Pharaoh immersed players in ancient Egypt, letting them oversee the growth of cities along the Nile.

List of Best City-Building Games on MS-DOS:

  • SimCity 2000 (1993): A sequel to the original, this version introduced enhanced graphics, more advanced city management, and additional building options.
  • Zeus: Master of Olympus (2000): Set in ancient Greece, this game allowed players to build and govern city-states while appeasing gods and managing resources.
  • Theme Park (1994): While not strictly a city-building game, Theme Park let players design and manage amusement parks, offering a creative and strategic experience.
  • Capitalism Plus (1997): A business simulation game that combined city-building elements with economic challenges, requiring players to create and manage successful corporations.
  • SimTower (1994): Focusing on vertical growth, this game challenged players to design and manage skyscrapers, from offices to residential spaces.

In conclusion, the realm of City-Building games on MS-DOS offers a canvas for aspiring urban planners to create and manage their own digital worlds. These games offer a blend of creativity, strategy, and resource management, allowing players to witness the growth and evolution of their cities. Whether you’re crafting a bustling metropolis or exploring historical settings, MS-DOS City-Building games provide an engaging and rewarding gaming experience.