Cologne, Germany - The Sims is one of the most popular computer game series of all time. Sims 3, the next iteration of the series, is due to hit stores in 2009, according to Electronic Arts (EA), the game's publisher. Among the most important changes to the virtual reality simulator are the options for creating even more realistic and individual looking Sims characters. The gaming environment is also no longer restricted to one's own house and immediate neighbourhood - the entire virtual world is now open for exploration.
The new technology at work in the sequel will allow players to send their aviators on shopping tours with their friends or lunch dates in the city. Visiting relatives are also okay, as is spying on the neighbours. One central point will certainly remain: setting up your own four walls. Residences can be spruced up with custom flooring, sofas, wallpaper and decorative objects like flowers.
A game's new "create a sim" tool allows for improved design of the characters. Body types including fat, thin and athletic can be selected, as well as a variety of characteristics such as hairstyles, skin colours and facial features. Five special character traits can also be selected for each character. That means you can just as easily choose to be a curious and surly kleptomaniac grandmother as a lazy, hotheaded punker.
More than 98 million copies of the previous Sims titles have sold worldwide. The game has been translated into 22 languages so far. No information has been provided as yet about prices or system requirements for this next generation arriving in 2009.
