Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com Joystiq http://www.blogsmithmedia.com/http://www.joystiq.com/media/feedlogo.gif Joystiq http://www.joystiq.com en-us Copyright 2013 Weblogs, Inc. The contents of this feed are available for non-commercial use only. Blogsmith http://www.blogsmith.com/<![CDATA[Taco Bell offering free copies of MySims with its Kid's Meals]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/25/taco-bell-offering-free-copies-of-mysims-with-its-kids-meals/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/25/taco-bell-offering-free-copies-of-mysims-with-its-kids-meals/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/25/taco-bell-offering-free-copies-of-mysims-with-its-kids-meals/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Want a free copy of MySims and an exciting trip to the bathroom? Taco Bell and EA have partnered up on a new Kid's Meal promotion. Starting today, Taco Bell Kid's Meals will offer one of three MySims-branded items: a sticker case, a MySims Sky Heroes activity poster or a full copy of MySims for PC.

Giving away a video game with a kid's meal certainly gives the appearance of a great value. We're surprised other game companies haven't rushed at the opportunity to create themed kid's meals. Imagine: a Pokemon Happy Meal, with a new in-game critter in each bag. You'd catch 'em all after only 500 meals or so!

JoystiqTaco Bell offering free copies of MySims with its Kid's Meals originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 25 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eakids-mealMysimsmysims-sky-heroesmysims-skyheroespctaco-bellSat, 25 Sep 2010 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Why Isaac Clarke and Commander Shepard are in MySims Sky Heroes]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/why-isaac-clarke-and-commander-shepard-are-in-mysims-sky-heroes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/why-isaac-clarke-and-commander-shepard-are-in-mysims-sky-heroes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/24/why-isaac-clarke-and-commander-shepard-are-in-mysims-sky-heroes/#commentsFiled under: , ,

If you saw that awfully cute trailer for EA's upcoming MySims Sky Heroes title, you probably wondered the same thing everyone else did: What's a decidedly M-rated character doing in an E-rated setting? Not only does Dead Space's Isaac Clarke make a cameo in the game as a playable chibi pilot, but Mass Effect's Commander Shepard is there as well. Joystiq cornered MySims assistant producer Matthew Salazar at a preview event today to find out.

"This is not just a game for kids," he said. "It's the sort of game that the older generation will play with the younger generation." And the references don't stop with EA characters. "There are a lot of Top Gun references in here," he confided, "and no 10-year-olds are going to get all of those." The characters may be M-rated, but Salazar doesn't expect the kids to see them that way. When younger players see the Isaac character, "there's just a cool spaceman in a suit."

And the development team had a selfish reason to include some famous EA characters as well -- "we did it because we think it's cool," said Salazar. All of video gaming's big mascots in the past, like Mario and Sonic, have been cuddly and family friendly, so it's funny to think of grimy M-rated characters as cute brand representations, but in this game, that's what they are.

JoystiqWhy Isaac Clarke and Commander Shepard are in MySims Sky Heroes originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 24 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsisaac-clarkematthew-salazarmicrosoftmysimsmysims-sky-heroesnintendoplaystationps3wiixboxFri, 24 Sep 2010 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MySims Sky Heroes flying to DS, Wii, Xbox 360, and PS3 this fall [update]]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/mysims-sky-heroes-flying-to-ds-wii-xbox-360-and-ps3-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/mysims-sky-heroes-flying-to-ds-wii-xbox-360-and-ps3-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/05/05/mysims-sky-heroes-flying-to-ds-wii-xbox-360-and-ps3-this-fall/#commentsWe were almost right about the trademarked MySims SkyHeroes: we guessed it would be headed to DS and Wii, but EA has surprised us by announcing the game for PS3 and Xbox 360 as well!. You'll be able to see your unbelievably adorable characters in high definition.

SkyHeroes is, of all things, a cutesy air combat game, in which My ... your ... your MySim takes flight against the (apparently) evil Morcubus and his army. As you fight, your character's fame will increase, as will the customization options for your plane.

The PS3 and Xbox 360 versions will feature both split-screen online multiplayer, in both cooperative and competitive game modes, for up to ten players. All four versions will be released this fall.

Update: trailer and screens added.

Gallery: MySims Sky Heroes (Xbox 360/PS3/Wii)



JoystiqMySims Sky Heroes flying to DS, Wii, Xbox 360, and PS3 this fall [update] originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 May 2010 15:23:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeaea-playElectronic-ArtsMicrosoftmysimsmysims-sky-heroesmysims-skyheroesNintendosimsWiiXbox-360Wed, 05 May 2010 15:23:00 EST<![CDATA[Medal of Honor, APB dated for Summer 2010]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/medal-of-honor-apb-dated-for-summer-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/medal-of-honor-apb-dated-for-summer-2010/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/medal-of-honor-apb-dated-for-summer-2010/#commentsAccording to EA's list of upcoming titles in its latest earnings report, a couple of high-profile games are going to be released this summer between July 1 and September 30: Realtime Worlds' crime-themed MMO APB (which is likely to be the "major MMO" to whose spring release John Riccitiello referred to previously), and ... a "TBA" Medal of Honor title -- possibly the one with the beard. EA did say that game would be out before March 2011! The summer release is listed for consoles, PC and handhelds.

Also due out in the quarter: the expected spate of annual sports franchises (Madden, FIFA, FIFA Online, NHL), a Monopoly game for consoles and handhelds, and a new MySims title -- we're guessing MySims Sky Heroes.

JoystiqMedal of Honor, APB dated for Summer 2010 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsfifa-11fifa-onlinemadden-11medal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010Microsoftmonopolymysimsncaa-football-11nhl-11q3-2010release-dateXbox-360Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[EA trademarks 'MySims Sky Heroes']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/ea-trademarks-mysims-sky-heroes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/ea-trademarks-mysims-sky-heroes/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/01/ea-trademarks-mysims-sky-heroes/#commentsAccording to a new trademark, EA's surprisingly adorable MySims are preparing for another adventure -- after Agents, Kingdom, Party, Racing, and the original MySims (the last of which being less of an adventure and more of a life). EA has filed a trademark for MySims Sky Heroes (and MySims SkyHeroes), for what we assume will be a game about operating a small neighborhood coffee shop flying flghter planes.

We can safely guess that if this game does end up being made, it'll be released for DS and Wii. And it'll be really cute. Unless this is to be the "mature" relaunch of MySims.

[Via Trademork, Destructoid]

JoystiqEA trademarks 'MySims Sky Heroes' originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 01 Feb 2010 10:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeaElectronic-Artsmysimsmysims-sky-heroesmysims-skyheroesNintendotrademarkWiiMon, 01 Feb 2010 10:32:00 EST<![CDATA[MySims Agents don't kill anyone in teaser trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/mysims-agents-dont-kill-anyone-in-teaser-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/mysims-agents-dont-kill-anyone-in-teaser-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/23/mysims-agents-dont-kill-anyone-in-teaser-trailer/#comments Prepare to crack some skulls and extract information with a pair of pliers this September with ... MySims Agents. OK, so using torture tactics to get what you need out of sources is likely out, but the game will allegedly allow you to use "wits, skills and trusty collection of gadgets to solve puzzling mysteries."

Players can even create their own MySims Mission Impossible-esque teams to go on adventures and collect "treasure." What kind of spies collect souvenirs? We really have no idea what to think about this game, but gosh, is it adorable.

JoystiqMySims Agents don't kill anyone in teaser trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 23 Jun 2009 18:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsmysimsmysims-agentsTue, 23 Jun 2009 18:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Boom Blox producer leaves EA, joins thatgamecompany]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/boom-blox-producer-leaves-ea-joins-thatgamecompany/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/boom-blox-producer-leaves-ea-joins-thatgamecompany/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/21/boom-blox-producer-leaves-ea-joins-thatgamecompany/#comments thatgamecompany, the studio behind flOw and Flower, has managed to sweep away former EA developer Robin Hunicke. Hunicke worked as the lead designer behind MySims, and produced the two Wii Boom Blox titles. In a statement to Kotaku, Hunicke explains that she wants "to reach new people, with new experiences, via the medium of games and the language of game design" in her new position. With both flOw and Flower completed, Hunicke says thatgamecompany is "at the forefront of the indie movement."

It's currently unknown what position Hunicke will serve at thatgamecompany or what project she will be working on. The team is still contractually obligated to develop at least one more game for PlayStation Network.

JoystiqBoom Blox producer leaves EA, joins thatgamecompany originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 21 May 2009 20:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boom-bloxflowflowerindiemysimsrobin-hunickethatgamecompanyThu, 21 May 2009 20:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA announces MySims Agents for Wii, DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/ea-announces-mysims-agents-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/ea-announces-mysims-agents-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/22/ea-announces-mysims-agents-for-wii-ds/#comments
We always had this sneaking suspicion during our time in MySims' adorably rendered township -- an inkling that some great criminal presence was operating just below the surface of those colorful suburbs. Your quiet, saucer-eyed neighbor, Julia? Drug pusher. Mike, the lawyer from down the street? Human trafficker. Allie, the six-year-old daughter of Julia? Terrorist.

If bustin' scoundrels makes you feel good, you'll be pleased to hear Electronic Arts just announced MySims Agents for the Wii and DS. Though there will probably be some slight variations in gameplay, both titles place you in the patent leather shoes of a special agent tasked with bringing down some scurrilous lawbreaker using gadgets, Columbo-esque clue tracking and a little help from some similarly skilled neighbors. Look for the games to sneak out this Fall.

JoystiqEA announces MySims Agents for Wii, DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Apr 2009 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crimeDSeaElectronic-Artsmysimsmysims-agentsmysteryNintendosimsWiiWed, 22 Apr 2009 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Gitcha SecuROM de-authorization tools! Git'em ova hur!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/gitcha-securom-de-authorization-tools-gitem-ova-hur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/gitcha-securom-de-authorization-tools-gitem-ova-hur/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/01/gitcha-securom-de-authorization-tools-gitem-ova-hur/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EA's perpetual joke -- on you -- comes to an ironic end on April Fools' Day with the release of de-authorization tools for each of its 19 PC games with SecuROM copy protection (full list and download links after the break). If you've been working on that class action lawsuit against EA for bundling SecuROM with The Sims 2: IKEA Home Stuff, you can drop it now -- your flat-pack furniture can finally be moved to a new machine.

In the spirit of generosity, EA's giving you two options for managing your authorizations:
  • Option 1: Download and install yet another "tool" in order to scan your computer for EA's SecuROM games and find out how many computer authorizations you have (or don't have) left for each title.
  • Option 2: Cut to the chase and download the game-specific de-authorization tool you need.

Continue reading Gitcha SecuROM de-authorization tools! Git'em ova hur!

JoystiqGitcha SecuROM de-authorization tools! Git'em ova hur! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 01 Apr 2009 12:17:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>burnout-paradisecommand-and-conquercrysis-warheadde-authorizationdead-spaceeaElectronic-Artsfifa-09fifa-manager-09littlest-pet-shoplord-of-the-rings-conquestmass-effectmercenaries-2mirrors-edgemysimsneed-for-speed-undercovernhl-09red-alert-3securomsims-2spore-creature-creatorthe-ultimate-boxWed, 01 Apr 2009 12:17:00 EST<![CDATA[MySims Party raises roof this March]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/mysims-party-raises-roof-this-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/mysims-party-raises-roof-this-march/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/02/10/mysims-party-raises-roof-this-march/#comments
What a glorious day, which was only made better by EA's announcement that MySims Party will be available for Wii and DS this March. Yes, the saccharin collection of minigames -- 40 in the DS version and 50 on the Wii -- will keep you smiling ... like you just ate the family pet and nobody knows.

MySims Party is part of EA's initiative to design more titles that appeal to the console's demographic. EA is likely taking a cue from 2K Games, which has found minigame success with its Carnival Games series. Next up for the MySims on Wii and DS: MySims Racing. Then, we speculate: Legend of MySims, Super Smash MySims and MySims Fit.

JoystiqMySims Party raises roof this March originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 10 Feb 2009 09:59:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmysimsmysims-partyNintendosimulationWiiTue, 10 Feb 2009 09:59:00 EST<![CDATA[Partying, Racing on the MySims agenda]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/partying-racing-on-the-mysims-agenda/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/partying-racing-on-the-mysims-agenda/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/partying-racing-on-the-mysims-agenda/#commentsFiled under: ,


We almost forgot that EA planned to expand its MySims franchise on the Wii and DS, but then we remembered this post, and also that this is EA.

MySims Party was last discussed in February, and is exactly what you'd expect: 50-odd waggle-heavy minigames for up to four players. Yes, alright, it's another minigame collection, but at least the MySims games tend to be polished. This Party starts in March, and will be a budget title.

Of more interest to us is the newest member of EA's chibi family, MySims Racing. EA has another kart game in the works, and an excellent kart-racing option already exists for Wii owners, but we still liked the look of the car design mode in the trailer (after the break!), and the idea of befriending other MySims to get car blueprints and spare parts is a neat way of tying the franchise together. MySims Racing will also be a cheaper-than-normal title, but there's one possible dealbreaker: no online play.

Continue reading Partying, Racing on the MySims agenda

JoystiqPartying, Racing on the MySims agenda originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 12:47:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualeaminigamesmysimsmysims-partymysims-racingracingWed, 07 Jan 2009 12:47:00 EST<![CDATA[EA expands Nintendo focus, announces TWO MySims games for Wii/DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ea-expands-nintendo-focus-announces-two-mysims-games-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ea-expands-nintendo-focus-announces-two-mysims-games-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/01/07/ea-expands-nintendo-focus-announces-two-mysims-games-for-wii-ds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

Things aren't going so well in the world of EA. Disappointing sales of games like Mirror's Edge and Dead Space have forced the company to restructure, letting go of 10% of its workforce. However, we see newfound hope for the company's bottom line with its latest Nintendo-focused efforts. EA is planning on expanding the MySims franchise with two new games that truly broaden what's possible in gaming.

MySims Party promises to turn any gathering into an "instant party" by offering -- wait for it -- a variety of minigames to play with. Shake the Wii Remote to partake in 50 minigames, ranging from snowboarding to dancing. The DS version will feature 40 stylus-powered minigames. 2K Games also created a similarly innovative title, which sold over a million copies.

In addition to the wildly innovative MySims Party, EA has another sure-fire hit on its hands. Nintendo fans will absolutely adore MySims Racing. We don't want to spoil the game's unique offering, so we placed that trailer after the break.

Continue reading EA expands Nintendo focus, announces TWO MySims games for Wii/DS

JoystiqEA expands Nintendo focus, announces TWO MySims games for Wii/DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 07 Jan 2009 10:28:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeaElectronic-Artsmysimsmysims-partymysims-racingWiiWed, 07 Jan 2009 10:28:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: MySims Kingdom goes to ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/fanswag-mysims-kingdom-goes-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/fanswag-mysims-kingdom-goes-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/fanswag-mysims-kingdom-goes-to/#commentsFiled under:

Our latest giveaway has concluded, meaning it's high time we selected our winner. Via random drawing, the individual selected to get our copy of MySims Kingdom is:
  • ShadowGirl, who would hire some skilled lawyers to iron out the winning of her kingdom. How thorough!
Congrats to our winner and better luck next time to all of you. Keep your eyes on DS Fanboy. We'll be starting up another giveaway soon.

JoystiqFanswag: MySims Kingdom goes to ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualeafanswagmysimsmysims-kingdomFri, 14 Nov 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: MySims Kingdom goes to ...]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/fanswag-mysims-kingdom-goes-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/fanswag-mysims-kingdom-goes-to/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/14/fanswag-mysims-kingdom-goes-to/#commentsFiled under:


Our latest giveaway has concluded, meaning it's high time we selected our winner. Via random drawing, the individuals selected to get our copies of MySims Kingdom is:
  • ProfWho, who would stop "Disney sequels like Snow White 12."
  • kjell1979, who would "declare war on Canada." That's not very nice!
Congrats to our winners and better luck next time to all of you. Keep your eyes on Wii Fanboy. We'll be starting up another giveaway soon.

JoystiqFanswag: MySims Kingdom goes to ... originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Nov 2008 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eafanswagmysimsmysims-kingdomFri, 14 Nov 2008 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: MySims Kingdom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/fanswag-mysims-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/fanswag-mysims-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/fanswag-mysims-kingdom/#commentsFiled under:

Here we are again, dear readers, with another edition of our fanswag giveaway. Up for grabs this week is a copy of MySims Kingdom ($30) for the DS. What do you have to do to get your hands on this? Well, why don't you tell us what the first order of business would be if you suddenly won your own kingdom? Would you throw a killer bash in your castle? Would you sell off the land and retire to a beach somewhere? Would you run through your fields naked?

Leave a comment between now and Tuesday, November 11th at 11:59PM ET, to be entered into the giveaway. You can leave one comment per day from now until the final day. We'll select a winner the next day via random drawing.

There are a few things you should know before entering. Entrants must be current and legal residents of the United States or Canada (excluding Quebec) and at least 18 years of age or older. Read up on the rest of the official rules right here. Good luck!

We're giving away a free copy of the game on the Wii, as well. Feel free to enter both giveaways!

JoystiqFanswag: MySims Kingdom originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsfanswagmysimsmysims-kingdomWed, 05 Nov 2008 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Fanswag: MySims Kingdom]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/fanswag-mysims-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/fanswag-mysims-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/11/05/fanswag-mysims-kingdom/#commentsFiled under:


Here we are again, dear readers, with another edition of our fanswag giveaway. Up for grabs this week are two copies of MySims Kingdom ($50) for the Wii. What do you have to do to get your hands on this? Well, why don't you tell us what the first order of business would be if you suddenly won your own kingdom? Would you throw a killer bash in your castle? Would you sell off the land and retire to a beach somewhere? Would you run through your fields naked?

Leave a comment between now and Tuesday, November 11th at 11:59PM ET, to be entered into the giveaway. You can leave one comment per day from now until the final day. We'll select a winner the next day via random drawing.

There are a few things you should know before entering. Entrants must be current and legal residents of the United States or Canada (excluding Quebec) and at least 18 years of age or older. Read up on the rest of the official rules right here. Good luck!

We're giving away a free copy of the game on the DS, as well. Feel free to enter both giveaways!

JoystiqFanswag: MySims Kingdom originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 05 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsfanswagmysimsmysims-kingdomWed, 05 Nov 2008 09:00:00 EST<![CDATA[E308: EA: If it's in the game, it's in these galleries]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-ea-if-its-in-the-game-its-in-these-galleries/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-ea-if-its-in-the-game-its-in-these-galleries/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/15/e308-ea-if-its-in-the-game-its-in-these-galleries/#commentsFiled under:


During their E3 press conference, EA released assets for a bunch of upcoming games. We showed the new SimAnimals earlier today -- these are the assets from the games we already knew about. More Sim stuff of a sort (SimCity Creator), more animal-related stuff (the utterly terrifying Littlest Pet Shop), and ... other stuff.

We've posted the gallery of the nice-looking MySims Kingdom below. Wait, why does the medieval MySims game have rocket rides? After the break, you can find the rest of the galleries, including Pet Shop, Creator, FaceBreaker KO Party, Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince. It's at least an excuse to break out old EA slogans.

Continue reading E308: EA: If it's in the game, it's in these galleries

JoystiqE308: EA: If it's in the game, it's in these galleries originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 15 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2008e308eafacebreakerharry-potterlittlest-pet-shopmysimsmysims-kingdomsimcity-creatorTue, 15 Jul 2008 08:45:00 EST<![CDATA[MySims inexplicably coming to PC]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/mysims-inexplicably-coming-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/mysims-inexplicably-coming-to-pc/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/07/07/mysims-inexplicably-coming-to-pc/#commentsFiled under: ,


So, see if you can wrap your brain around this one. In the fall of 2007, EA released a boiled-down version of The Sims on Wii and DS called MySims, which went on to sell 1.5 hojillion copies. Now, perhaps looking to push it to the 2 hojillion mark, EA announced today that on October 27 of this year MySims will be coming to the PC ... so, does that make it a "boiled-up" version?

Yes, to be fair, the PC will be getting some new characters and new online features like the ability to play Tag and share your creations with friends. But you know what else the PC will be getting at some point? Sims 3. Just saying.

JoystiqMySims inexplicably coming to PC originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jul 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsmysimsPCsims-3the-simsMon, 07 Jul 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Which kingdom? MySims Kingdom!]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/which-kingdom-mysims-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/which-kingdom-mysims-kingdom/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/04/which-kingdom-mysims-kingdom/#commentsFiled under:


Ah, new screens from MySims Kingdom, the game in which you build a town of anthropomorphic critters, dig up fossils, and spend your time fish-- no? Oh, that's Animal Crossing. Right. MySims Kingdom is the WiiWare game in which you take on the role of a young king tasked with rebuilding your father's king-- no? That's a Final Fantasy title? Blast! All these games look alike, and with the new medieval/fantasy theme MySims Kingdom is taking on for the sequel, it's looking a lot like My Life as a King.

In fact, instead of directing you to look at the screenshots (which, surprisingly, look a lot like MySims, which means they're cute, but not terribly fresh!), we've prepared a minigame for you after the break. If you happen to prefer the screens, check 'em out in our gallery below -- and hit up Famitsu, where they recently featured some others.

Continue reading Which kingdom? MySims Kingdom!

JoystiqWhich kingdom? MySims Kingdom! originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eafantasymedievalmysimsmysims-kingdomsimulationWed, 04 Jun 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA presents Sim City, MySims Kingdom, adorable costume]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ea-presents-sim-city-mysims-kingdom-adorable-costume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ea-presents-sim-city-mysims-kingdom-adorable-costume/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/06/02/ea-presents-sim-city-mysims-kingdom-adorable-costume/#commentsFiled under: ,


EA held an event in Japan last week to reveal the new Sim City Creator as well as MySims Kingdom. GAME Watch has direct-feed screenshots of both games, which should satisfy any would-be fake city-builder, whether they want to build on the micro- or macro-scale, in the past or in the future. There are also plenty of stills from gameplay demos of both games. Of the two, we find ourselves more drawn to MySims Kingdom, which looks like an RPG town creator, and forces players to think low-tech, with puzzles like gear mechanisms that must be turned by the motion of a nearby river.

However, more than either of the actual games, we were impressed with the MySim costume used at the event. How can we build one of those?

JoystiqEA presents Sim City, MySims Kingdom, adorable costume originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 02 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eamaxismysimsmysims-kingdomsim-citysim-city-creatorMon, 02 Jun 2008 11:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sim City Creator features fun and then some]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/sim-city-creator-features-fun-and-then-some/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/sim-city-creator-features-fun-and-then-some/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/28/sim-city-creator-features-fun-and-then-some/#commentsFiled under: , ,



It's not exactly a simulation if you're facing off against giant fire-breathing dinosaurs, now is it? That's just one of the deadly, deadly disasters you'll encounter while constructing your digital empire in Sim City Creator for the Wii. Okay, it may not be a simulation of plausible events in a real city, but will it be a simulation of fun? Pffft. Everything is fun with dinosaurs.

Taking a look at the above scan from the latest Famitsu, we can see a couple of normal-looking areas, as well as a crazy neon crystal metropolis. In fact, a whole range of building designs will be available in a bunch of styles, including Futuristic, Crystal, Jungle, Las Vegas, Mediterranean, Traditional Japanese and even Cake -- apparently buildings inspired by your favorite baked goods. Sounds delish.

Adopting a MySims visual style, Sim City Creator's modes include Free Play, Mission, Collection (unlockable stuff -- hopefully cookies and pies to build a library), Memorial Album (happy snaps from Free Play) and City Making Contest. This mode lets you upload your created cities via Nintendo Wi-Fi and have various other would-be architects rank and review your work. Nice one!

Sim City Creator is set for a September release in Japan. Keep those dinosaurs and UFOs at bay until then, and hit the Source link to check out the full scans.

[Via NeoGAF]

JoystiqSim City Creator features fun and then some originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 28 May 2008 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsfamitsumysimssandboxscanssim-citysim-city-creatorsimulationWed, 28 May 2008 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MySims Kingdom: The Home of Princess Butter]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/mysims-kingdom-the-home-of-princess-butter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/mysims-kingdom-the-home-of-princess-butter/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/mysims-kingdom-the-home-of-princess-butter/#commentsFiled under:


In a press release sent out this morning, EA revealed some details of the new MySims sequel, MySims Kingdom. Fascinatingly, Kingdom is designed as more of an adventure than its predecessor, with things like a story and goals other than "build stuff and make friends."

That's still the basic gameplay, but this time you're building (medieval) stuff and making (ye olde) friends at the behest of King Roland (and his daughter, the amusingly-named Princess Butter), who charges you with improving his kingdom. As you build and achieve goals, you'll unlock new building capabilities including bridge-building (or at least bridge repair). These will allow you both to increase the size of your kingdom and to expand into other kingdoms, each with their own unique inhabitants.

Surprisingly, given the setting, you'll also be able to create electrical devices. We assume you will then be run out of town by a frightened mob.

JoystiqMySims Kingdom: The Home of Princess Butter originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 12:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eamysimsmysims-kingdomsimsWed, 14 May 2008 12:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA spills the beans on MySims Kingdom for DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-spills-the-beans-on-mysims-kingdom-for-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-spills-the-beans-on-mysims-kingdom-for-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-spills-the-beans-on-mysims-kingdom-for-ds/#commentsFiled under: ,

Ever since MySims Kingdom was revealed, we've been patiently awaiting details regarding the title. Now, we've got a bit more to go on, as EA lets us know what this game is all about. It is "a story of adventure, discovery and exploration to help King Roland and his subjects revitalize the Kingdom." Okay, sounds simple enough.

The DS version of this game, specifically, will offer several different mini-games and very much resembles Animal Crossing. EA's Rod Humble (is that not an awesome name?), whom heads up The Sims division, said MySims Kingdom will contain "rewarding quests, building houses, bridges or even making contraptions powered by electricity or water." It sounds like the title will have a lot of customization options, however we wonder if it won't be the simple little game that EA promised it would be back at launch. Is this not getting to be a bit too big for a casual title?

Be sure to hit up our gallery below for first screens from the game.



[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqEA spills the beans on MySims Kingdom for DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 10:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualeaelectronic-artsmysimsmysims-kingdomsimsthe-simsWed, 14 May 2008 10:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA details MySims Kingdom for Wii, DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-details-mysims-kingdom-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-details-mysims-kingdom-for-wii-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/05/14/ea-details-mysims-kingdom-for-wii-ds/#commentsFiled under: , , ,

While we'll admit that The Sims was never more than a stone's throw away from being an all-out casual series anyway, EA will continue to dress the franchise in casual attire in MySims Kingdom, the sequel to last year's 3 million unit selling MySims. Shipping this fall worldwide for the Wii and DS, the game was first announced earlier this year as one of a handful of new dumbed down casual-themed takes on The Sims. However, EA today released the first details about the game, calling MySims Kingdom "a story of adventure, discovery and exploration to help King Roland and his subjects revitalize the Kingdom."

The gameplay, which once again sounds more than a little like Animal Crossing, will center on exploring and developing a kingdom through The Sims-style customization, with the DS version adding emphasis on mini-games as players try to turn aside a rival evil king. Adds The Sims studio head Rod Humble, MySims Kingdom will include "rewarding quests, building houses, bridges or even making contraptions powered by electricity or water." The game eschews much of the larger franchise's sandbox appeal for backstory, leaving us waiting for until next year's The Sims 3 before we can know the joy of deleting the ladder from the neighborhood pool.

JoystiqEA details MySims Kingdom for Wii, DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 May 2008 09:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>DSeaelectronic-artselectronicartsmysimsmysims-kingdommysimskingdomsimsthesimsWiiWed, 14 May 2008 09:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii's third-party million-sellers revealed]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/wiis-third-party-million-sellers-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/wiis-third-party-million-sellers-revealed/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/03/21/wiis-third-party-million-sellers-revealed/#comments

Ah, how we all knowingly chuckled when Sega predicted it would sell four million copies of Mario & Sonic at the Olympic Games across the Wii and DS. Like a drunken, rowdy friend boasting of sexual conquests that never actually occurred, Sega's strutting came across as the stuff of fantasy.

And then the news came through. They'd sold five million. D'oh!

We were reminded of our misplaced Mario & Sonic cynicism again today, after That Videogame Blog listed the third-party games that have shifted one million units on the Wii. Sure enough, the plumber and the hedgehog taunted us from the top of the pile (with 3.4 million sales), while Guitar Hero III: Legends of Rock (1.8 million), Resident Evil 4: Wii Edition (1.6 million), Rayman Raving Rabbids, Sonic and the Secret Rings, Carnival Games (all 1.2 million), and Red Steel (1 million) sat beneath it.

Helpfully, author Ashutosh Chhibbar has also listed those titles that are nearing the magical seven-digit landmark, with Resident Evil: Umbrella Chronicles, MySims, or LEGO Star Wars: The Complete Saga just needing one last push.

JoystiqWii's third-party million-sellers revealed originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>carnival-gamesguitar-hero-iiilego-star-warsmario-and-sonicmysimsone-millionrayman-raving-rabbidsred-steelresident-evilsonic-and-the-secret-ringsumbrella-chroniclesFri, 21 Mar 2008 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Plenty of MySims to go around: two new titles announced]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/plenty-of-mysims-to-go-around-two-new-titles-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/plenty-of-mysims-to-go-around-two-new-titles-announced/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/plenty-of-mysims-to-go-around-two-new-titles-announced/#commentsFiled under:


Apparently EA's strategy of releasing games with the word "Sims" in the title is paying off. Citing the success of the MySims games on DS and Wii -- to the tune of $100 million in revenue and 3 million copies -- EA Casual's Kathy Vrabeck revealed two more games in the spinoff franchise to be released on Nintendo systems.

No details have been released for either game except the titles (MySims Kingdom and MySims Party) and release schedules. Kingdoms is planned for an October-December release, while Party is scheduled for early 2009. We're pretty sure we can guess what MySims Party is, but Kingdoms? We're hoping for a medieval-themed MySims. Wouldn't it be awesome to design your own cute lil' king and then outfit his castle with tapestries? Yes, it would.

[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqPlenty of MySims to go around: two new titles announced originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualeamysimsmysims-kingdommysims-partysimsWed, 13 Feb 2008 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[MySims franchise to stick around on the Wii and DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/mysims-franchise-to-stick-around-on-the-wii-and-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/mysims-franchise-to-stick-around-on-the-wii-and-ds/http://www.joystiq.com/2008/02/13/mysims-franchise-to-stick-around-on-the-wii-and-ds/#commentsFiled under:


For all of you who enjoyed MySims and would like to taste some more, EA Casual Entertainment president Kathy Vrabeck wants you to know that EA has no plans to call it quits with the franchise. In fact, they're going to be dumping more money into future projects on both the DS and Wii.

First up will be MySims Kingdom, hitting the DS and Wii this year (sometime between October and December, Q4). Also, EA plans on producing MySims Party, which will also hit the DS and Wii, which will arrive much later, sometime in Q1 2009. EA also revealed SimCity Creator, however platforms were not discussed.

Hooray for third-party support. eh?



[Via Joystiq]

JoystiqMySims franchise to stick around on the Wii and DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 Feb 2008 14:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>casualeaelectronic-artsmysimsmysims-kingdommysims-partyWed, 13 Feb 2008 14:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Best of 2007: Worst attempt at a cash-in]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/best-of-2007-worst-attempt-at-a-cash-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/best-of-2007-worst-attempt-at-a-cash-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/12/19/best-of-2007-worst-attempt-at-a-cash-in/#commentsFiled under:

During 2007, lots of companies realized that the Wii was doing good. Perhaps, too good. So, they scrambled to make games that they could port or "enhance" for the Wii, or other games that were made to take advantage of the console's adopters who were new to gaming and thus susceptible to spending money on crap games the unique capabilities of the Wii's controls scheme, causing a slew of cash-ins on the console that didn't necessarily bring anything new to the Wii other than another game sitting on the shelf. So, let's look at those games and you tell us what the most shameless and useless game of the lot is.

Continue reading Best of 2007: Worst attempt at a cash-in

JoystiqBest of 2007: Worst attempt at a cash-in originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 19 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>armageddonbest-of-2007capcomcarnivalgameseaeaplaygroundghostsquadlegolegostarwarsmarioandsonicmkmortalkombatmysimsnamcore4residentevil4segaWed, 19 Dec 2007 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA celebrates UK MySims release with useless, expensive stuff]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/ea-celebrates-uk-mysims-release-with-useless-expensive-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/ea-celebrates-uk-mysims-release-with-useless-expensive-stuff/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/10/05/ea-celebrates-uk-mysims-release-with-useless-expensive-stuff/#commentsFiled under: , ,


To commemorate the British release of MySims, EA commissioned some apparently famous fashion designers to come up with some crazy junk as part of the MySims Capsule Collection. The four items are all intended to serve dual purposes, and embody "the core attributes of the game - Self Expression, Customisation, Creativity and Collectability."

The item descriptions should give you all the information you need to make informed decisions about whether or not you want these items. For example, the House of Holland MySims Pouch Tee is a t-shirt with a pouch for a DS. It also uses a big-slogan style that you may remember from "FRANKIE SAY RELAX" or Wham!'s "Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go" video. Also, two of the four items are Wiimote bags. Bags-- for your Wiimote.

[Via GoNintendo; image via Kotaku]

JoystiqEA celebrates UK MySims release with useless, expensive stuff originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 05 Oct 2007 15:05:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bagcapsule-collectioneamysimsshirtsukFri, 05 Oct 2007 15:05:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii Fanboy review: MySims]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/wii-fanboy-review-mysims/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/wii-fanboy-review-mysims/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/26/wii-fanboy-review-mysims/#commentsFiled under:


We've had a love affair with EA's MySims since the game was first announced. The overall look of the Sims spin-off is so charming that it turned out to be irresistible, especially with all those shots of the new chibi sims engaged in adorable activities. But looks are only one part of the equation -- the real question for any reviewer to address is: does it stand up under scrutiny?

MySims certainly has its flaws, and the numerous comparisons to Animal Crossing have not been off base. However, it's not nearly the clone that it seemed from select screens and video footage; MySims stands alone as its own game. But is it one you want to own? That may depend on what you like in your simulations.

Continue reading Wii Fanboy review: MySims

JoystiqWii Fanboy review: MySims originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 26 Sep 2007 23:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Animal-CrossingAnimalCrossingbuildingEAElectronic-ArtsElectronicArtsgalleryjoystiqfeaturesMySimssimulationWed, 26 Sep 2007 23:45:00 EST<![CDATA[WRUP: Whole lot of choices edition]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wrup-whole-lot-of-choices-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wrup-whole-lot-of-choices-edition/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/21/wrup-whole-lot-of-choices-edition/#commentsFiled under:


This week shows the release of several new titles, some that many have been looking forward to and some that have been just about invisible on the radar. There's a couple different games to choose from for the gamer looking to get their feet wet in some new waters. So, will you be picking up something new to play over the weekend? If not, what will you be playing?

JoystiqWRUP: Whole lot of choices edition originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 21 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dewysadventuremysimsFri, 21 Sep 2007 13:30:00 EST<![CDATA[MySims improves just in time for release]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/mysims-improves-just-in-time-for-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/mysims-improves-just-in-time-for-release/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/18/mysims-improves-just-in-time-for-release/#commentsFiled under: ,

GoNintendo offered us an updated look at the DS version of MySims, and we must say that we're pleased to see such vast improvements. The few review scores that are in so far are all over the place, however, so the jury is still out on whether or not the updated graphics will be enough. If you're picking up the DS version, let us know what you think!

The updated screenshots are in the gallery below, along with some older shots for comparison.

JoystiqMySims improves just in time for release originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Sep 2007 16:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAelectronic-artselectronicartsminigamemy-simsmysimssimulationTue, 18 Sep 2007 16:50:00 EST<![CDATA[DS releases for the week of September 17th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-september-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-september-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/ds-releases-for-the-week-of-september-17th/#commentsFiled under:

No rest for weary wallets this week -- but is that really a bad thing? Our sources say no, though it can certainly be hard to find fundage for all the DS games that catch our eye. Good thing they're cheap!
  • 7 Wonders of the Ancient World
  • AniMates
  • Backyard Basketball
  • Digimon World: Dawn
  • Digimon World: Dusk
  • Juiced 2: Hot Import Nights
  • Master Jin Jin's IQ Challenge
  • MySims
  • Namco Museum DS
  • Nancy Drew: Deadly Secret of Olde World Park
  • Sonic Rush Adventure
Anything catch your eye this week, or are you saving up for later releases, or still hurting from previous weeks?

Continue reading DS releases for the week of September 17th

JoystiqDS releases for the week of September 17th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 19:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AniMatesBackyard-BasketballDigimonJuiced-2MySimsNamco-MuseumNamcoMuseumNancy-DrewreleasesSeptemberSonic-Rush-AdventureMon, 17 Sep 2007 19:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii releases for the week of September 17th]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/wii-releases-for-the-week-of-september-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/wii-releases-for-the-week-of-september-17th/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/17/wii-releases-for-the-week-of-september-17th/#commentsFiled under:


Last week's lack of releases has really been corrected this week as there are numerous titles available to play that encompass several different genres. So, there should be something for everyone this week. Personally, we're interested in checking out Dewy's Adventure and MySims.
  • Cosmic Family
  • Anubis II
  • Fishing Master
  • Dewy's Adventure
  • MySims
  • Mercury Meltdown: Revolution
Any of you plan on picking up a new game this week?

JoystiqWii releases for the week of September 17th originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 17 Sep 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dewysadventuremysimsreleasesMon, 17 Sep 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Game Boys, ice cream, and Crip-walking chefs]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/game-boys-ice-cream-and-crip-walking-chefs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/game-boys-ice-cream-and-crip-walking-chefs/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/14/game-boys-ice-cream-and-crip-walking-chefs/#commentsFiled under:


The reviews that have been coming in for MySims make sure to point out the EA-developed title's lack of depth and polish, but we're sure it'll sell just fine with casual gamers based on its cheerful cuteness alone. This latest video preview shows off all the fun you can have when you're not busy gentrifying your MySims town -- play pranks on unsuspecting goth kids, DJ at the local discotheque, and straight-up mack on some pink-haired honeys.

Apparently, you can even have a dance-off with restaurant-owner Gino Delicioso! How did an Italian chef learn to Crip walk like that?

JoystiqGame Boys, ice cream, and Crip-walking chefs originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 14 Sep 2007 11:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>danceeaelectronic-artsgame-boymysimsFri, 14 Sep 2007 11:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Check out MySims moving in]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/check-out-mysims-moving-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/check-out-mysims-moving-in/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/10/check-out-mysims-moving-in/#commentsFiled under:


If waiting a week for something is totally outside the realm of possibilities for yourself, then check out these videos for MySims. Focusing on building a home, starting a new life and some other fun town activities, they really do grab our fancy and tickle it something fierce. But, in case you're trying to limit your exposure to the game as you are planning on picking it up, then you might want to enjoy our other posts.

Heck, give them a second glance. We promise they read just like the very first time.

JoystiqCheck out MySims moving in originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 10 Sep 2007 16:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eamysimsMon, 10 Sep 2007 16:30:00 EST<![CDATA[Preorder offerings in Korea]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/preorder-offerings-in-korea/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/preorder-offerings-in-korea/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/09/06/preorder-offerings-in-korea/#commentsFiled under:

Why can't publishers be more charitable with preorder gifts in the states? We're doing them a favor whenever we put down an advance for one of their games, giving retailers an idea of how many they should order to stock their shelves. Japan and Korea seem to get reservation rewards for almost every release!

The latest preorder prizes, a branded system pouch and a stylus set, come with EA's SimCity DS and MySims, both due later this month for Korea. Publisher Fujitsu was more creative with its Cooking Mama gift, offering a limited edition pair of cooking mitts to any gamer who reserves the kitchen-themed minigame collection. Hand over five bucks and head past the post break for more photos of the bonus items.

Continue reading Preorder offerings in Korea

JoystiqPreorder offerings in Korea originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 06 Sep 2007 14:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>CookingCooking-MamaCooking-Mama-LtdeakoreaMajesco-EntertainmentMinigamesmysimspreordersimcityThu, 06 Sep 2007 14:50:00 EST<![CDATA[Joystiq hands-on: MySims]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/17/joystiq-hands-on-mysims/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/17/joystiq-hands-on-mysims/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/17/joystiq-hands-on-mysims/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Your enjoyment of MySims -- EA's Nintendo exclusive Sims title -- will be directly tied to how appealing you find its style. If you've glossed over screenshots and felt a toothache coming on, then you should step aside before you get hurt. However, if you're like us and the sight of it makes you you squeal like a 12 year old girl watching High School Musical, then congratulations: you've found your new favorite obsession.

Like all great sandboxes, creating and accessorizing your character is half the fun of MySims and here, you don't have any pesky genders to get in the way. Taking your customization a step further is a voice editor that allows you to pick from a variety of pre-sets and then alter the pitch to find the Simlish tone you're looking for. Naturally, progressing through the game unlocks new fashions for your character, so those who spent dozens of hours finding their perfect look in Animal Crossing will have more than enough reasons to make more room for mirror-time.

Not surprisingly, the Animal Crossing comparison doesn't end with the superficial.

Gallery: MySims

Continue reading Joystiq hands-on: MySims

JoystiqJoystiq hands-on: MySims originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 17 Aug 2007 11:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-ArtsmysimsthesimsWiiFri, 17 Aug 2007 11:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Deconstructing G4's MySims preview]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/deconstructing-g4s-mysims-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/deconstructing-g4s-mysims-preview/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/08/09/deconstructing-g4s-mysims-preview/#commentsFiled under:


Tim Letourneau of EA took a few moments to chat with G4 at E3 (it's an acronym party!) about MySims, and he had some interesting things to say about designing the game for the Wii. And by interesting, we mean both vaguely amusing and very revealing. Since we're such nice people, we thought we'd take a moment to offer a translation for some of the things you can hear in the video snippet found after the break.

First, Letourneau says, when EA began planning MySims, they needed to figure out how to give a Sims game a unique look and feel for Nintendo and the Wii. Translation: How can we make a Sims game sell well in Japan? He goes on to mention that one of their goals was accessibility -- but what we hear is: the money-printing Sims franchise can bring in a whole lot more money if we finally make a version that's great on consoles. Let's make it all-ages friendly, too! And actually, we agree that this is a fantastic idea; surely you've noticed us mooning over every aspect of the game. However, "accessibility" has become one of those Wii buzzwords that we're getting tired of.

But it's the last bit that makes us giggle. Letourneau spends a good portion of the brief segment discussing how the whole thrust of this game -- and how it's different from other Sims titles -- is to allow the player to craft an entire town, from the ground up, for that Nintendo experience. We're pretty sure he wanted to say that Animal Crossing experience ... because other than being able to build and fiddle around in the other houses in the town, what he's describing sounds essentially like that beloved title. But again, we don't mind -- we love Animal Crossing, and a similar game with expanded building and decorating options sounds like something we'll pour entire months of our lives into. Bring on MySims!

Continue reading Deconstructing G4's MySims preview

JoystiqDeconstructing G4's MySims preview originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Aug 2007 17:20:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AnimalCrossingEAG4MySimspreviewTimLetourneauThu, 09 Aug 2007 17:20:00 EST<![CDATA[Wii success took EA by surprise]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/wii-success-took-ea-by-surprise/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/wii-success-took-ea-by-surprise/http://www.joystiq.com/2007/07/27/wii-success-took-ea-by-surprise/#commentsFiled under:


John Riccitiello, the new CEO of Electronic Arts, made a surprising concession regarding EA's recent strategies, saying that they failed to anticipate the insane success of the Wii. Instead, they put the greatest portion of their next-generation investment into PS3 games, which is kind of unfortunate for everyone. Riccitiello categorized the focus on Xbox 360 and PS3 games as EA being on "the wrong horse." We'd argue that they didn't back any horse sufficiently. Their next-gen sports games, for example, were feature-poor compared to their last-gen contemporaries.

We don't know about this year's PS3/360 sports games, but expect EA to shift more and more heavily to the Wii, especially with games from their newly-formed EA Casual division. We've already got MySims and Boogie on the way, two games that bear more than a passing resemblance to quality product. Oh, and Blocks.

JoystiqWii success took EA by surprise originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 27 Jul 2007 09:50:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>boogiecasualeamysimsFri, 27 Jul 2007 09:50:00 EST