Filling the void of the city simulation game genre, with the last mainline release in the Sim City franchise releasing back in 2013, Cities: Skylines by Paradox Interactive and the Finnish development team at Colossal Order yesterday celebrating the series’ 10th anniversary. Since then, the original game has expanded with more than 60 DLC releases, multiple console adaptations, and a sequel in 2023 (although the reception to it remains mixed since launch).
To mark this anniversary, Paradox Interactive has announced a range of content updates across both Cities: Skylines and Cities: Skylines II, scheduled for release throughout March 2025.
18 March 2025 Update for Cities: Skylines II
A free Anniversary patch will introduce new parks and buildings inspired by the game’s decade-long history. Additionally, three Creator Packs and three new Radio Stations will be released, available for individual purchase or as part of the Ultimate Edition at no extra cost to its owners. These include:
Dragon Gate – A content pack featuring Chinese architecture and market quarter locations.
Leisure Venues – A collection of entertainment-focused buildings, parks, and leisure spots.
Mediterranean Heritage – Buildings inspired by 15th-19th century Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Southern French architecture.
New Radio Stations – Atmospheric Piano, Jade Road, and Feelgood Funk.
25 March 2025 Update for Cities: Skylines
The original game will receive its own free Anniversary patch, introducing dynamic parks that change in appearance based on the expansions players have installed, providing a personalized touch to their cities. New Creator Packs and a radio station will also be available:
Emerging Downtown – A pack featuring various building sizes and construction styles for bustling city centers.
Countryside – A rural-themed pack including libraries, food markets, and small-town halls.
The Harvest Harmony Radio Station – A country-inspired selection of music for laid-back city-building.
Free Play Opportunity
From 20–24 March, Cities: Skylines will be available for free on Steam for a limited-time play session. Additionally, starting on 13 March, a new subscription service will allow players to access the game’s full catalog of 60+ DLC packs for a single monthly fee. Existing players will also have access to a special “completion offer” to round out their DLC collection.
Reflecting on the game’s first 10 years, Colossal Order CEO Mariina Hallikainen stated:
We founded Colossal Order with the dream of creating a city-builder that would bring more freedom and creativity to the cities players can build. With Cities: Skylines, that dream not only came true, but thanks to the continued support of our amazing fans, we had the opportunity to keep growing and building this game and community many years after its release and take it even further than anticipated.
