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SimCity server instability “almost behind us”, report Maxis

simcity_server_instability_nearly_fixed

You might have heard that SimCity’s lauch was a tad bumpy. But thanks to some optimised server architecture, the judicious deployment of several extra servers and a few critical client updates, Maxis have reduced game crashes by 92% since that disastrous US launch and succeeded in welcoming “virtually everyone” into the game without letting the door swing back in their faces.

“I had hoped to issue an ‘All-Clear’ tonight, but there are still some elements coming together,” wrote Maxis monarch Lucy Bradshaw in an official update. In the next day, Maxis will be testing the water in each of SimCity’s servers, all the while keeping one eye glued to the game’s metrics, much as their players are doing for their towns and cities in-game. Midway through the week, the developers hope to be in a position to confirm that the server issues are gone for good.

“The good news is that tens of thousands of new players are streaming into the game every day and the confidence our fans have shown is truly humbling,” continued Bradshaw. “I can’t begin to explain the way a development team feels when something you’re proud of is threatened at launch. Our biggest fear was that people who love this franchise would be scared off by bad reviews about the connectivity issues.

“But you put your faith in us. You bought the game with the understanding that we’d quickly fix the server issues. For that support – that incredible commitment from our fans — we are deeply grateful. As the general manager of Maxis, I want you to know that we cherish your faith in us, and the love you’ve shown for this franchise.

“Thank you very much.”

The other day, we listed everything we think EA need to do to fix SimCity’s launch. Most of those points still stand. Maxis may be grateful for the continuing influx of players, but they’ve a load road to travel yet before regaining their trust. What do you think needs to be done?