The Sims 2 (PC)

Reviewed by PETER ELEY


The Sims took the world of computer games by storm, becoming the number one PC game of all time and hooking millions into living vicarious lives through computer alto egos.

What's that? Your favourite Sim isn't really modelled on you? You may say that, but it would take a saint or someone without a sense of adventure to push the boundaries through their digital doppelgangers.

It's hard to follow a superstar - just ask Julian Lennon or Kelly Osbourne. And the question that has to be asked of The Sims 2 is how does it compare with its parent?

The Sims 2 takes the basic premise of the game to live a virtual life in a sort of computerised soapie but pushes it further.

Note the rating label: M15+, sexual references.

It's not Leisure Suit Larry, if you can remember that far back, but the action does get steamy at times.

You can hit on who you like, and hot tubs seem to be one of the most popular purchases in Sim pads, if you get the drift.

The good news for Sims fans is that The Sims 2 is well worth the purchase price simply because it takes a great game and makes it better.

A lot more is made of family dynamics, to the extent that you can watch your Sim be born, grow up and die.

That's life, and just how much fun you want your Sim to have is up to you.

The graphics are better, too, and the game makes better use of artificial intelligence, which can be disconcerting at times as Sims make some quite odd and independent decisions.

The Sims 2 looks a sure bet to follow on from the original's phenomenal success and give addicts more choices as they live out their alternative, virtual lives.

And then of course, there'll be the inevitable raft of add-ons - the original had something like 11 specials and add-ons editions.

EA Games, M15+

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