I really miss these building games that used an isometric grid. RC Tycoon, Zoo Tycoon, Sim City, TTD, …

Yes, it's less realistic, but it is so pleasant to work with. Everything you build aligns perfectly and if you want, you can neatly fill the entire map.

In comparison, (even with many mods) my Cities Skylines or Planet Coaster creations never look quite right. Building the roads and paths is always awkward and frustrating.

(I've commented this before.)

Reminded me quite a bit of Populous[1] as well.

1. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Populous_(video_game)

Funny, my mind went to OpenTTD

For me, "Briefing" from Ace Combat 2 played back in my head straight away.

https://youtu.be/5uPVGs7bq3s?t=8

I like it's also really 3d, while looking like older 2.5d games.

This is exactly what I thought of