IGN got a demonstration of SimCity Societies the other day by EA’s Rachel Bernstein, who is the lead producer of the game. The sneak peak mentions many of the new features included; such as the effects of social energies and certain buildings.
For instance, you put enough Creativity buildings down and you might see street lights turn into candy cane street lights. Placing tons of Obedience structures in the area will eventually turn those lights into security cameras which help complete the big brother feel.
Along with the two-page preview comes the very first live video from the game.