Those Darn Sims!
| Published 10/01/04

Graphic by: Jenny Conner

The much anticipated sequel to the popular computer game "The Sims" is now here. "The Sims 2" brings a lot of new features to your computer screen, including impressive 3D graphics. This article will discuss what makes "The Sims 2" different from its very addicting predecessor.

There are a number of notable new features in "The Sims 2". First, the number of objects (that is, stuff you can buy for your Sims) is about the same, but there are numerous style options. For example, if the big fluffy couch strikes your fancy but the default green and yellow plaid color doesn't, you can replace the hideous fabric with one of several pattern choices.

  In addition, several objects from the original Sims have expanded actions associated with them. Instead of "make dinner," you can "make spaghetti" or "stuff your face." The latter is somewhat amusing; rarely in the original version did we see Sims drinking milk straight from the carton. 

  Finally, the building options have been expanded. While the original house construction tools were somewhat limited, they are quite versatile in "The Sims 2." Doors and windows can be built into diagonal walls for the first time. There are hundreds of new features in this game, far too many to discuss. Players will likely find themselves saying, "I can't believe it does that!"

"The Sims 2" has changed game play in "The Sims."  Instead of just fulfilling everyday needs (Johnny Sim says "I'm hungry!  I'm tired!  I'm bored!"), second generation Sims need lifelong aspirations to be fulfilled before they're satisfied (Johnny Sim says "I'm unpopular!  I want a family!  I want to be rich!"). When creating a new adult Sim, you give him or her one of five aspirations: wealth, knowledge, family, romance or popularity. 

  That aspiration shapes your Sim's needs and wants throughout his or her life.  This brings up another new factor in Sims 2 game play: Sims age and eventually die. The new version also offers tons of new character interactions and is much more story oriented than "The Sims."

Finally, the graphics in "The Sims 2" are wildly different from those of "The Sims". The most obvious change is the switch to 3D, giving the Sims and their environments far more detail than the original version. In addition to being more realistic, the 3D graphics make navigation in the graphical environment much smoother and more appealing. Unfortunately, the intense graphical element of this program causes some systems to run slow or forces the user to scale down the graphical detail for better system performance.

"The Sims 2" is a very good follow up to "The Sims." Sims players will likely experience a smooth transition to this new version. Though the game has a lot to keep up with, new players will catch on quickly also. After the two-dimensional, no weekends, eternal life world of "The Sims," players will most likely find "The Sims 2" very addicting. You can purchase a copy of "The Sims 2" for $49.99 at any software retailer, or order a copy online at http://www.thesims.com".