Newcomer Here

[shmohel 1]

Hello everyone. As you can tell, I am new to this site, and I must say to everyone (and especially the staff here): well done. This site seems like a great community with loads of information.

I have always been a fan of the Sim City games, but have not played last since 3000. I decided to check out if there was a new version and was excited when I saw Societies. But as I read more about it, I became let down hearing that the game takes out all the zoning and city planning that is what I love about Sim City.

Then, I stumbled upon this site and realized that Sim City 4 is still alive and kicking. Knowing this, and after spending time reading most of the articles in the Omnibus, I decided this was the route to go. Sim City 4, here I come (albeit a bit late).

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With that said . . . now I have to pick a place to start. It certainly feels overwhelming. So, if someone would be so kind, here are some questions I hope to get answered before I begin.

1. What is the difference between BATs, Props, Lots, etc?
2. Is there a glossary somewhere on this site to explain the myriad of terms in Simtropolisese?
3. Which downloads would serve as a good foundation? It seems like the NAM is an essential, but what other packs might be useful?

Thanks for the help and advice. I am sure some of these questions must have been asked before. My apologies if they are repetitive. Just not sure where to look for the answers!

[masochist 111]

Hello, shmohel!

This is a pretty imposing site, so it's understandable that you're still trying to figure things out a bit.  I'll try and help you out as much as I can.  First, though: do you have SC4 Deluxe Edition or SC4 with Rush Hour expansion pack?  If not, then you won't be able to download most of the things on this site (e. g. the NAM).  Assuming you do, though:

1.) BAT's are custom-made models of  buildings made in a 3-d modeling such as Gmax, 3ds Max or Google Sketch-Up.  Lots are the actual parcels of land that BAT's sit upon, and include things like base textures (maybe grass, a parking lot, concrete, etc.).  You can have multiple lots for a single BAT if you want (in fact, the base game does this for quite a few buildings).  Props are small decorative-type items used to dress up lots.  And mods are simply modifications made to the game.  Hopefully that makes things a bit clearer.

2.) LOL, Simtropolisese...I think you may be looking for [something like this], but strangely enough it's not located on Simtropolis .

3.) It really depends on what you hope to accomplish in the game.  If you want the biggest population, you should search the [sTEX] for gigantic residential BAT's and the [Modds and Downloads] section for a demand mod.  If you want realism, then search the STEX for the type of buildings that fit your idea of "realism" (it's different for everyone).

Actually, I think the Modds and Download section would be a good starting point in general if you're not quite sure what you want.  Just browse through there and see if there's anything that you think might benefit you.  Be sure to pick up the SC4 TerraFormer to make region-sculpting a lot easier, and also the Opera House fix (which, obviously, fixes a bug with the in-game Opera House).  There are quite a few mods which you might find useful...just take a look at them all.

Hopefully this helps you a bit; other people may be able to give you even more advice.  If you have anymore questions, feel free to ask!  And by the way: welcome to Simtropolis !

[shmohel 1]

Thanks for the explanation. I have spent some more time pouring through the resources here. It is truly amazing the amount of effort people have placed into this.

I have not yet picked up a version of the game. Being a law school student, my time is thin. But, as the end of the semester is quickly approaching, I am looking for something to fill my hours this summer. Something mindless, yet engaging. Looking forward to it!

[iConstruct 0]

I wouldn't say it's completely mindless. It involves more thinking and "work" than most games. There is planning and analyzing and reading of tutorials. My friend plays SC3000 because he says SC4 is too complex for his tastes. Anyway, if your a student and don't have much time, be careful you don't get addicted, because this game can really get addicting.

[shmohel 1]

Compared to law school, just about anything is mindless.

[iConstruct 0]

LOL, true true.

Uhh, while we are on the newbie topic....I wanted to ask whoever reads this what growth stages are related to RCI? I'd appreciate it

[doorknob60 11]

If I were you, I'd get the NAM here (you need to register and log in on their site or it won't let you download it) (the April 2008 version, I can't seem to find it on ST). Also, get the NAM Essentials and the Rural Highway Mod (Install the NAM, then essentials, the the Rural HIghway)

Also, since you're new to SimCity 4, I'd update your game here and here (get both, install the first one first). If you get all of those, your game will have what I consider the essentials, and you will have a more enjoyable experience.

[un1 40]

You can't get the NAM April 2008 on ST yet...

[simsmart 1]

Originally posted by: un1 You can't get the NAM April 2008 on ST yet...quote>

Not "yet", not ever. Although I'm speaking out of turn, it was a decision by the NAM team to move to devotion. I highly doubt them coming back to upload on simtrop. Just a thought.

[shmohel 1]

Thanks doorknob60. That looks like a good list.

[Meg 368]

Welcome to Simtropolis.

Have you checked out the New Members Information section?

It has the Glossary pinned.

[shmohel 1]

Yea, I did find that eventually. Just took a lot of time trying to digest this whole site. But, I am utterly fascinated with the level of dedication here. I just read through the Digby CJ, wow. You guys are hardcore!

[jacqulina 162]

welcome to st

[Bumdark 3]

Yup, welcome. Hope you have a nice stay!

[shmohel 1]

Thank-you both.

[doorknob60 11]

Originally posted by: simsmart

Originally posted by: un1 You can't get the NAM April 2008 on ST yet...quote>

Not "yet", not ever. Although I'm speaking out of turn, it was a decision by the NAM team to move to devotion. I highly doubt them coming back to upload on simtrop. Just a thought.quote>

Look at the front page