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August 20, 2008 5:37 AM PDT

'Sims 3' coming on February 20

Posted by Caroline McCarthy
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Electronic Arts has announced that the third installation of The Sims, that game that rivals World of Warcraft in the "I got so addicted my boss almost fired me" department, will be debuting on February 20, 2009.

(Credit: EA)

That's a worldwide release date for both in-store purchases and digital downloads. EA has famously devoted an entire division (or "label") to the blockbuster Sims franchise, in which players create their own families of virtual characters (or "sims") and let their lives unfold. The game was designed by Will Wright, whose new game Spore is hitting stores next month.

New to The Sims 3 are more advanced customization features (including personality traits like kleptomania, paranoia, and clumsiness) and smarter "neighborhoods" that can more extensively affect the outcome of the game.

In addition to The Sims 3, EA will also be releasing a "collector's edition" with a number of bonus features--including an in-game Italian sports car.

Caroline McCarthy, a CNET News staff writer, is a downtown Manhattanite happily addicted to social-media tools and restaurant blogs. Her pre-CNET resume includes interning at an IT security firm and brewing cappuccinos. E-mail Caroline.
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Add a Comment (Log in or register) 5 comments
by Seanathome August 20, 2008 8:05 AM PDT
Oooh, I can't wait!! :) I'm totally gonna get the "Special Edition" for the exclusive plumbbob USB drive... ;)
Reply to this comment
by Willie Winkie August 20, 2008 12:35 PM PDT
I'm gonna wait for the cracked version on Pirate Bay.
by i_am_still_wade August 20, 2008 12:25 PM PDT
My only problem with the Sims is the paid expansion packs.
Reply to this comment
by Willie Winkie August 20, 2008 12:41 PM PDT
I'm gonna wait for a cracked version.
Reply to this comment
by mementh August 23, 2008 3:51 PM PDT
Hmmm another sims game... rather then come up with something NEW and inovative EA throws out a new game engine and can make addicts pay again and again and again to buy the expansions that they refuse to include...

glad i got over the sims craze years ago when sims 2 collage or something came out. (Sold my copy to a friend @ work for his wife)
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