This paper, authored by and published in ToDIGRA (Transactions of the Digital Games Research Association), analyzes the game as an artifact of contemporary urban planning theory. Key Themes of the Paper
: It evaluates the game's shift from traditional urban simulation (zoning and infrastructure) to social engineering . The author examines how players are encouraged to manipulate "place" to achieve specific societal outcomes, such as happiness. SimCity Societies
One notable academic paper looking into is "SimCity and the Creative Class" (also published under variations like "SimCity and the Creative Class: Place, Urban Planning, and the Contemporary Cultural Setting"). This paper, authored by and published in ToDIGRA
: The author applies E. McClung Fleming’s Artifact Study method (1982) to the game, treating its manuals, online resources, and gameplay as primary data to track trends in urban planning. Other Related Academic Work One notable academic paper looking into is "SimCity