Chaim Gingold
Scholar and author of Building SimCity: How to Put the World in a Machine (MIT Press, 2024), interviewed about the history of SimCity, Maxis, and the cultural history of computer simulation.
Top 3 podcasts with Chaim Gingold
Ranked by the Snipd community
Aug 20, 2025 • 1h 27min
Chaim Gingold on Building SimCity & Simulation as Discourse
Chaim Gingold, a brilliant computer scientist and game designer known for co-creating Spore and authoring 'Building SimCity,' dives into the fascinating world of simulations. He discusses how SimCity transcends mere gaming to reshape societal concepts, highlighting the interplay of creativity and play in technological engagement. The conversation touches on the historical evolution from analog to digital, exploring the impact of simulation on political decision-making and the ethical responsibilities of tech companies. Gingold encourages us to reflect on how simulations can empower or mislead.
Dec 15, 2025 • 21min
Chaim Gingold, "Building SimCity: How to Put the World in a Machine" (MIT Press, 2024)
Chaim Gingold, a game designer and author, dives into the fascinating history of SimCity and its impact on computer simulation. He reveals how Will Wright's unique vision transformed urban planning into a game that resonates across diverse communities. Gingold discusses the intricate ties of SimCity to educational settings and influential institutions like the Santa Fe Institute. He also shares insights about Maxis's challenges, including investor pressures post-IPO, and highlights archival discoveries that illuminate the game's innovative legacy.
Jun 21, 2024 • 23min
The Orthogonal Bet: SimCity, Maxis and the ambitious modeling of everything
Game designer and researcher Chaim Gingold discusses the creation of SimCity, the history of Maxis, and his experience working with Will Wright. They explore early 90s gaming, the unique aspects of SimCity, and the intersection of game design and scientific ideas.
