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Explore the development history of SimCity 4, including its initial concepts, the role of Maxis and Electronic Arts, and the evolution leading to its expansion packs and enduring legacy.

The development of SimCity 4 was a significant undertaking for Maxis, a subsidiary of Electronic Arts. While a sequel to SimCity 3000 was hinted at in-game as 'SimCity 4000', the final product became SimCity 4. Despite initial suggestions from Will Wright for further development, only one expansion pack, 'Rush Hour', was released in 2003 before the studio shifted focus to 'The Sims 2'. Later, 'SimCity 4: Deluxe Edition' was released, which was a bundle of the base game and the 'Rush Hour' expansion. The game continues to maintain a large and active fanbase, with players contributing mods and fixes, ensuring its longevity even after official development ceased.

Key Development Points:

• Initial concept alluded to as 'SimCity 4000' in the Science Center building.
• Developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts (PC) and Aspyr Media (Mac).
• Released on January 14, 2003 (PC) and June 20, 2003 (Mac).
• Only one official expansion pack, 'Rush Hour', was released.
• 'SimCity 4: Deluxe Edition' bundled the base game and 'Rush Hour'.
• Retains a large fanbase due to player-created mods and fixes.