SimCity mod support on the cards

SimCity developer Maxis has shared its views on User Generated Content (UGC) and is considering adding mod support to the troubled city-building game.

Maxis has taken to the Electronic Arts forums to get gamers’ feedback and opinions on the topic of mod support, with plans to create a final draft of the UGC guidelines before any tools are implemented.

“It’s difficult to determine what makes a ‘good’ or safe mod and what mods cross the line. Clarifying guidelines for UGC will help players understand where that line is and protect both our UGC and non-UGC community. Ultimately we want everyone to have fun with the game, no matter how you play it,” said Maxis.

User Generated Content Guidelines – first draft:

Acceptable UGC and mods do not jeopardize the integrity of the gameplay or harm the experience of others.

UGC that effects the simulation for multiplayer games and features are not allowed.

Examples of acceptable UGC include swapping art assets, like buildings and vehicles.

Maxis reserves the right to take disciplinary action against players who break the rules.

Here are some questions we have to get the conversation going:

What kinds of UGC/mods are people interested in?

What are your thoughts on the guidelines?

How should we deal with cheating and players who break the rules?

Are there game modes that would be acceptable to allow UGC in? Is Sandbox mode an acceptable UGC mode? Would tagging regions with UGC be an acceptable solution?

Of the UGC/mods available today, what are you most excited about? Which ones do you consider negative?