Now That's What I'm Talking About!

Sociologist Karen Sternheimer of USC brings a refreshing dose of sanity and perspective to the debate (such as it is) over the pop culture scapegoat of record - video games. As always, GamePolitics is all over it.

Yes, Please!

As much as my kids love Sims 2: Pets, the recently-announced MySims is guaranteed to be a sure-fire hit at Chez GameFam. Sims 2 Pets is terrific, but I still have to play with my kids every time, because of the depth and complexity of the gameplay (more detail in a future post), as well as the fact that it's rated T.

The only real question is whether to get it for Wii (which we don't have yet, but will soon - oh yes, we will have it soon) or DS, when they come out in the fall.

Decisions, decisions.

EDIT (3/4/07): Did I mention that MySims is Robin's game? Oh, no I di'in? Well, it is. So there.

Here's the press release I grabbed from this Kotaku post:

EA Announces MySims Created Especially for the Wii and Nintendo DS Platforms

Popular Video Game Series Embraces Player Creativity, Customization and Personal Expression Through a New, Delightful Cast of Characters

REDWOOD CITY, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Electronic Arts (NASDAQ:ERTS) announced today that the company is developing MySims™, the first game in a revolutionary new line from the developers of the blockbuster franchise The Sims, designed especially for the Wii™ and Nintendo DS™ platforms.

MySims introduces a charming cast of whimsical characters while delivering the creativity, customization and classic open-ended gameplay that has enchanted Sims players worldwide. Players begin by creating their own toy-like Sim that reflects their personal style and attitudes. From pig-tails and baseball caps to dreadlocks and Mohawks, the options are endless and the style is unlike any Sims game to date. By unlocking cool new clothing, hairstyles and accessories, players explore the game's incredible depth of customization and expression... and the characters are just the beginning!

Transforming the traditional Sims gameplay for the Wii and Nintendo DS platforms, MySims moves the player to a delightful but disorganized town where - thanks to the easy and unique controls - they can re-shape everything and make it their own. The town is rundown, but the player can make it much more dynamic. Using a selection of building blocks, unique patterns and engaging creativity tools, players can design furniture and appliances, architect new homes and businesses, and re-define the entire MySims landscape!

As players explore and build up the town, they will get to know dedicated, long-time residents like the always-busy Mayor Rosalyn P. Marshall and Buddy - the mostly-lazy hotel Bellhop. Once things start to look up, they'll meet and choose from a variety of colorful, would-be residents. Will they build a restaurant for Gino Delicioso the Italian Chef, or will they help Ocean Breeze set up his Yoga studio instead?

Design is everyone's domain in MySims. From building a new Pizza Oven for Gino to putting the finishing touches on a new roof for Buddy's busy hotel, each completed task will help the town grow. As it expands to new areas, players will receive special building blocks, decorations and patterns which help customize their unique creations. From furniture and buildings to the town as a whole, every choice informs how residents and visitors feel and behave.

"We want MySims to provide a creative play experience like never before on a video game system," said Executive Producer Tim LeTourneau. "By giving players the tools to create literally any kind of world they want in MySims, we're reinforcing the idea that the players create the magic. Will the town support a plethora of spooky, mysterious townsfolk - or buzz with the laughter and smiles of fun-loving Sims? It's your call! In MySims, what players make... makes all the difference!"

MySims will be available for the Wii and Nintendo DS platforms in fall 2007.

Product Specifications
Publisher: Electronic Arts
Developer: Electronic Arts
Ship Date: Late 2007
Category: Simulation

About MySims

MySims is the first game in a revolutionary new line from the developers of the blockbuster franchise The Sims™, designed exclusively for the Wii and Nintendo DS platforms. Explore a whole new world that's yours to transform with MySims. Socialize with the locals and uncover all sorts of useful and surprising treasures hidden throughout the town. Accessible and intuitive controls make it enjoyable to create Sims, build their homes, and interact with other Sims and their world. For more information check out www.Mysims.com.