Are your cities vibrant in CS II?

Thinking about trying out CS 2 after having spent. good amount of time on the first game. When I look at CS 2 gameplay, the cities seem to be a little less bustling/alive/vibrant than in the first game. Cities also look a little more artificial and dark-colored.

Have you found that your cities feel "alive" in CS 2, especially compared to CS 1? Thanks!