You are an urban planner tasked with transforming a rapidly growing city into a sustainable, equitable megacity that functions efficiently within global economic and social systems. Each decision you make will affect the city’s future. Navigate the maze by answering the questions correctly.

Scenario: Your city, NeoVille, has experienced rapid urbanization. Its population has grown to over 12 million, making it a megacity. While this urban growth presents economic opportunities, it also brings challenges such as congestion, inequality, housing shortages, and environmental degradation. Your goal is to create a globally competitive, socially equitable, and environmentally sustainable city.

Question 1

Problem: NeoVille is facing a massive influx of rural migrants seeking jobs. This has led to unplanned urban sprawl and a rise in informal settlements. What is your first step to address this issue?

A. Develop formal low-cost housing projects to accommodate migrants.
B. Evict residents from informal settlements to free up land.
C. Build large shopping malls and high-end housing to attract investment.

If you choose A, go to Question 2.
If you choose B, go to Question 3.
If you choose C, go to Question 4.

Question 2

Challenge: The low-cost housing projects are reducing informal settlements but increasing strain on infrastructure like water, electricity, and transport. What strategy will you adopt?

A. Expand infrastructure to underserved areas with government funding.
B. Limit migration into the city to reduce population pressure.
C. Prioritize central city infrastructure upgrades over suburban areas.

If you choose A, go to Question 5.
If you choose B, go to Question 6.
If you choose C, go to Question 7.

Question 3

Dead End! Evictions cause social unrest and worsen inequality. Return to Question 1.

Question 4

Dead End! Building high-end facilities without addressing basic needs increases inequality and excludes the majority population. Return to Question 1.

Question 5

Success! Expanding infrastructure improves living conditions and reduces inequality. The city now needs to create jobs to support its growing population. What should you prioritize?

A. Develop eco-industrial zones to attract foreign investment.
B. Focus on technology and services to create high-paying jobs for the skilled workforce.
C. Support small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in informal sectors to generate employment.

If you choose A, go to Question 8.
If you choose B, go to Question 9.
If you choose C, go to Question 10.

Question 6

Dead End! Restricting migration violates human rights and harms the rural poor who depend on urban jobs. Return to Question 2.

Question 7

Dead End! Prioritizing central city infrastructure worsens inequality in underserved areas. Return to Question 2.

Question 8

Challenge: Eco-industrial zones bring investment but increase environmental degradation. What should you do?

A. Implement strict environmental regulations on industries.
B. Relocate polluting industries to rural areas.
C. Focus on renewable energy-powered industries.

If you choose A, go to Question 11.
If you choose B, go to Question 12.
If you choose C, go to Question 13.

Question 9

Dead End! Focusing only on high-paying jobs excludes unskilled workers and increases unemployment in the city. Return to Question 5.

Question 10

Success! Supporting SMEs creates jobs and strengthens the local economy. However, rapid urban growth is causing severe traffic congestion. What is your solution?

A. Build more highways and roads to accommodate cars.
B. Develop a multi-modal public transport system.
C. Relocate people to less congested areas outside the city.

If you choose A, go to Question 14.
If you choose B, go to Question 15.
If you choose C, go to Question 16.

Question 11

Success! Environmental regulations reduce pollution but slightly increase business costs. You’ve struck a balance between sustainability and economic growth. Move forward to Question 15.

Question 12

Dead End! Relocating polluting industries creates environmental problems in rural areas and disrupts lives. Return to Question 8.

Question 13

Success! Renewable energy industries attract investment while protecting the environment. Move forward to Question 15.

Question 14

Dead End! More roads increase urban sprawl and worsen pollution. Return to Question 10.

Question 15

Final Challenge: Your sustainable megacity is now thriving. However, global competition between world cities is fierce. What is the final step to make NeoVille a globally competitive world city?

A. Develop a strong global brand focusing on sustainability and innovation.
B. Attract multinational corporations with tax incentives.
C. Focus on becoming a regional hub for trade and tourism.

If you choose A, you’ve solved the maze!
If you choose B, go to Question 17.
If you choose C, go to Question 18.

Question 16

Dead End! Relocating people causes social disruption and increases inequality. Return to Question 10.

Question 17

Dead End! Tax incentives attract businesses but reduce government funds for infrastructure and services. Return to Question 15.

Question 18

Dead End! Focusing only on trade and tourism limits economic diversification. Return to Question 15.