EA announces SimCity Creator for DS

A tantalising press release has just been added to EA's investor website that details a brand new SimCity game for DS.

SimCity Creator is being developed exclusively for DS and Wii, with both versions utilising their console's unique controls and offering a different experience.

In the DS version, players will be creating and evolving their own city over time – starting in ancient times, then moving through history to the Middle Ages, modern times, present day and the future.

Famous landmarks are unlocked along the way that can be used to enhance your city and these mark progress through eras. However, the game will be completely open-ended and is described as a creative experience.

Interestingly, EA also says it's the most accessible and light-hearted game yet from the (usually quite hardcore) SimCity franchise. Whether that means in terms of visuals or just in its approach we're not sure. Fortunately it doesn't appear to just mean it's been made for younger gamers on DS, with the press release stating it's been designed for all ages and for both new and long-time SimCity players.

Something which seems to be further backed up by the fact the game offers four different play modes: Challenge, Free Play, Chance Encounter and Gallery. Which should mean there's something for everyone, especially as EA says some of these modes are more open and creative while others offer more of a gaming challenge.

You can look forward to donning your town planner hat in the not too distant future. SimCity Creator is down for release in Europe on September 19th (and in North America a few days later on September 23rd). We plan to return with more on exactly how this game is set to overhaul the SimCity series as soon as we get more details.