The graphics stayed isometric but were promoted to high-definition, new variables were added including fire hazard, approval rating, water and garbage pollution, neighbor deals ( which were quite unfair), and support for bigger cities that could reach the million inhabitants with a bit of luck. Originally it was going to be in full 3D, but the technical limitations of then-current hardware led Maxis to revert to 2D graphics.
It is widely remembered as a port overdosed title, even though not a single console from Super NES to Nintendo 64 was capable of running that game without collapsing. Interestingly UK PC Gamer magazine still ranks this as the best SimCity despite its age.