[torradan]

It rocks, as far as city building goes.. no blood and guts :)

I haven't tried out Simcity Societies though, heard that it sucked butt.

I think the box cost $40 at Best Buy. simcity deluxe = simcity 4 + rush hour.

There are also a TON of sites out there to download new content

http://www.simtropolis.com
http://www.sc4devotion.com
http://www.simpeg.com

I usually hang out around those ones looking for new buildings and stuff.

Just be aware that the mechanics are different than say, 2000. Requires a bit more managing of your budget, but once you get it dialed in, you don't need to bother with it much.