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[EA and Zynga settle The Ville lawsuits]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/ea-and-zynga-settle-the-ville-lawsuits/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/ea-and-zynga-settle-the-ville-lawsuits/http://www.joystiq.com/2013/02/15/ea-and-zynga-settle-the-ville-lawsuits/#comments Highlights from EA's lawsuit against ZyngaElectronic Arts and Zynga have settled their legal kerfuffle, which began when the former sued the social games giant for what it called a "clear violation" of copyright laws over similarities between games. Details on the settlement are lacking, but InsideSocialGames has a statement from Zynga that it has resolved its respective claims with EA and "reached a settlement" in the Northern District of California.

The legal drama kicked off last August when EA sued Zynga over the similarities between Zynga's recently released The Ville and EA's The Sims Social. The evidence against Zynga was stacked pretty high. This was the first time a giant like EA had stepped into the ring to take on the culture of cloning, which Zynga had been accused of in the past.

A month later, Zynga filed a counterclaim against EA over the similarities between CityVille and SimCity Social. We'll update with settlement terms when he receive them.

JoystiqEA and Zynga settle The Ville lawsuits originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 15 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artslawsuitpcthe-simsthe-sims-3the-villezyngaFri, 15 Feb 2013 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims Social officially launches on Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-sims-social-officially-launches-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-sims-social-officially-launches-on-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/08/19/the-sims-social-officially-launches-on-facebook/#comments EA "officially" launched The Sims Social on Facebook yesterday, but it's been in open beta since August 9. That enabled EA to achieve the seemingly impossible task of having almost 5 million "monthly active users" listed on the game's release date. Nice trick!

In addition to that achievement, EA is launching its creepy, creepy game bolstered by a Gamescom award. The shadowy cabal of "independent experts" awarded The Sims Social with its "best browser game" award. We suppose there wasn't a "best browser game with which to proposition your Facebook friends" award.

Continue reading The Sims Social officially launches on Facebook

JoystiqThe Sims Social officially launches on Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 19 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electronic-artsfacebookgamescom-2011pcthe-simsthe-sims-socialFri, 19 Aug 2011 18:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Come, relive the creepy with The Sims Social announcement trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/come-relive-the-creepy-with-the-sims-social-announcement-traile/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/come-relive-the-creepy-with-the-sims-social-announcement-traile/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/15/come-relive-the-creepy-with-the-sims-social-announcement-traile/#comments Few E3 moments provided bone-chilling waves of creepiness quite like the announcement trailer for The Sims Social during EA's press conference. You can now watch the Facebook title's first look after the jump -- just get ready to get really, really uncomfortable.

Continue reading Come, relive the creepy with The Sims Social announcement trailer

JoystiqCome, relive the creepy with The Sims Social announcement trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 15 Jun 2011 21:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eafacebookmaxispcthe-simsthe-sims-socialWed, 15 Jun 2011 21:31:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims Social brings awkward video game hook-ups to Facebook]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/the-sims-social-brings-awkward-video-game-hook-ups-to-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/the-sims-social-brings-awkward-video-game-hook-ups-to-facebook/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/06/the-sims-social-brings-awkward-video-game-hook-ups-to-facebook/#comments At EA's E3 2011 press conference, CEO John Riccitiello was excited to announce The Sims Social, which is ... The Sims on Facebook. That's basically it. You'll be able to "play" a lower-res version of The Sims on Facebook.

There wasn't much talk in the way of features, but the announcement trailer was pretty hilarious and ultra creepy. We'll try to track that down for you guys so you can share in our misery right now.

JoystiqThe Sims Social brings awkward video game hook-ups to Facebook originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 06 Jun 2011 16:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>e3-2011eafacebookmacpcsocialthe-simsthe-sims-socialMon, 06 Jun 2011 16:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sims 3 adding pets this fall; standalone game for consoles and 3DS]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/sims-3-adding-pets-this-fall-standalone-game-for-consoles-and-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/sims-3-adding-pets-this-fall-standalone-game-for-consoles-and-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/06/04/sims-3-adding-pets-this-fall-standalone-game-for-consoles-and-3/#comments With The Sims 3's latest expansion, Generations, launching this week, it's time for EA to announce the next installment: Pets. The title will be an "entirely new standalone game" on Xbox 360, PS3 and Nintendo 3DS. It'll be a standard expansion on PC and Mac.

The Sims 3: Pets will give players direct control over the creatures and even allow breeding and sharing. The Xbox 360 version will have Kinect capabilities, allowing players to control "their pets and Sims" using voice commands. Like, and this is in the press release: "telling their Sim to be romantic." Take a moment to think it through. ... Awkward, right?

For the Nintendo 3DS, Pets will use the built-in pedometer to add more "Karma Points" the more the player walks. The points can be used on in-game items. Using the 3DS's StreetPass players can gift pets to other Pets owners.

Oh, also, if you don't make at least one crazy lady with hundreds of cats in the neighborhood, you're playing The Sims wrong.

Gallery: The Sims 3: Pets (PC/360/PS3)

Continue reading Sims 3 adding pets this fall; standalone game for consoles and 3DS

JoystiqSims 3 adding pets this fall; standalone game for consoles and 3DS originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 04 Jun 2011 01:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmicrosoftpcplaystationps3the-simsThe-Sims-3The-Sims-3-PetsxboxSat, 04 Jun 2011 01:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sims 3: Generations trailer introduces the world's worst teenagers]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/sims-3-generations-trailer-introduces-the-worlds-worst-teenage/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/sims-3-generations-trailer-introduces-the-worlds-worst-teenage/http://www.joystiq.com/2011/05/18/sims-3-generations-trailer-introduces-the-worlds-worst-teenage/#comments If hooking up in the hot tub isn't your ultimate end-game in The Sims 3, then you might want to check out Generations, the latest expansion. Now it's your mid-life crisis instead of just another Tuesday! It's all about experiencing life's major moments, like raising lawn-hating teenagers.

Continue reading Sims 3: Generations trailer introduces the world's worst teenagers

JoystiqSims 3: Generations trailer introduces the world's worst teenagers originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 May 2011 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artssimulationstrategythe-simsThe-Sims-3Wed, 18 May 2011 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims Medieval 'special edition' coming, specialness debatable]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/the-sims-medieval-special-edition-coming-specialness-debatabl/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/the-sims-medieval-special-edition-coming-specialness-debatabl/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/12/22/the-sims-medieval-special-edition-coming-specialness-debatabl/#comments When we heard that EA would be releasing a "special limited edition" of The Sims Medieval next spring, our minds were filled with images of a replica treasure chest, loaded with fittingly medieval goodies -- perhaps a sword-shaped letter opener? (Okay, so our imaginations are a little unimaginative today.) Instead, we learned that the release would include three exclusive throne rooms, "princess," "barbarian" and "dark magic," in addition to two outfits, some royal clothes and executioner garb.

While we're already rocking a dark magic theme in our own throne room, the thought of some pre-made costumes for the next Renaissance Faire season seemed pretty cool. Upon closer inspection of the announcement, however, we discovered that these are outfits for the game's "simulation" people. That kind of ruined it for us, but we suppose if you're a diehard Sims buff, resisting this package would be feudal.

JoystiqThe Sims Medieval 'special edition' coming, specialness debatable originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmacpcsimulationspecial-editionthe-simsthe-sims-medievalWed, 22 Dec 2010 00:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Will Wright explains what The Sims and an ant colony have in common]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/will-wright-explains-what-the-sims-and-an-ant-colony-have-in-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/will-wright-explains-what-the-sims-and-an-ant-colony-have-in-com/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/11/08/will-wright-explains-what-the-sims-and-an-ant-colony-have-in-com/#comments Originally titled Home Tactics, Will Wright's hit people simulator The Sims was largely made possible by a bunch of simulated ants. During an interview with Doom creator John Romero at the IGDA Leadership Forum dinner last Friday, Wright revealed that his previous title, Sim Ant, was a key inspiration for -- and the basis for the core emergent gameplay in -- The Sims.

"We decided to program Sim Ant as close to how real ants work as we could, which means that they're actually responding to pheromone trails, and the intelligence is distributed environmentally," Wright recalled when asked how The Sims came about. "We were able to get very complex behavior out of the ants just using these pheromone distributions. So I started to wonder how much of human behavior I could simulate the same way." As it turns out, a lot.

"The basic engine for The Sims really ends up being one of any pheromones. Every object in the environment is sending out an 'advertisement' of pheromones in a particular flavor. The flavors are the eight basic needs of the Sims. So they can advertise 'food,' 'energy,' 'fun,' 'social,' 'hygiene.' Every object is described in those terms, being the collection of pheromones that it broadcasts," Wright explained. "A Sim is always sitting there, smelling all of the pheromones around it saying, 'oh I need to be clean, or I need to be fed' -- whatever -- so they follow that pheromone trail to the closest object that's producing it. The advantage of that -- the whole point of that -- was that we could add new objects into the game later without the Sims having any foreknowledge of what the objects were, as long as they had these pheromones."

Romero began to ask Wright if he thought actual humans might somehow work this way, but stopped himself. He was probably picturing the audience as a group of hideous ant people, or imagining he could see clouds of pheromones wafting about. Even the guy who thought up the Doom demon would be grossed out by that.

JoystiqWill Wright explains what The Sims and an ant colony have in common originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>idga-leadership-forum-2010macpcsim-antthe-simsThe-Sims-3will-wrightMon, 08 Nov 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Study: Action games could help you make faster decisions]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/study-action-games-could-help-you-make-faster-decisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/study-action-games-could-help-you-make-faster-decisions/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/09/14/study-action-games-could-help-you-make-faster-decisions/#commentsFiled under: , ,

Years of action gaming have instilled deep within us an irrational phobia of standing anywhere near red barrels; a syndrome we're sure many of you can sympathize with. But a study from the University of Rochester says those same games might also be helping us make even non-barrel-centric decisions faster.

After giving audio and visual tests to two groups of college students that had recently played either an FPS or The Sims, researchers found that while the two groups got the same amount of answers right, action gamers were able to arrive at those answers about 25 percent faster.

Sadly, the testing had to be discontinued when the FPS players refused to stop marking their triumph by knocking The Sims players to the floor and repeatedly jamming their crotches into the losers' horrified faces.

JoystiqStudy: Action games could help you make faster decisions originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 14 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>actionfpsresearchthe-simsTue, 14 Sep 2010 12:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims Medieval will be in stock at retailers March 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/the-sims-medieval-will-be-in-stock-at-retailers-march-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/the-sims-medieval-will-be-in-stock-at-retailers-march-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/17/the-sims-medieval-will-be-in-stock-at-retailers-march-2011/#commentsFiled under: , ,

We are now less in the dark about the Dark Ages version of The Sims. During its Gamescom 2010 presentation, EA announced a March 2011 release date for The Sims Medieval.

This iteration of the mega-popular life adds more than the poor plumbing and widespread illiteracy of the age: it also adds quest-based gameplay that allows you to gradually expand your kingdom with the help of a user-created "hero."

Gallery: The Sims Medieval (Gamescom 2010)

Continue reading The Sims Medieval will be in stock at retailers March 2011

JoystiqThe Sims Medieval will be in stock at retailers March 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 17 Aug 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>EAea-playelectronic-ArtsGamescom-2010pcq1-2011release-datethe-simsthe-sims-medievalTue, 17 Aug 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[EA announces The Sims Medieval for PC and Mac]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/ea-announces-the-sims-medieval-for-pc-and-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/ea-announces-the-sims-medieval-for-pc-and-mac/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/08/03/ea-announces-the-sims-medieval-for-pc-and-mac/#commentsFiled under: , ,

EA is sending The Sims back in time to the dark ages -- wait, is it time for DarkSims already? The publisher has just announced The Sims Medieval, a new series for the PC and Mac that lets you "build up a medieval kingdom, controlling characters from all walks of life, from Kings and Queens, to Knights and Wizards, Blacksmiths and Bards." This is accomplished through a new addition to the series: quest-driven gameplay.

As you complete quests in The Sims Medieval, you'll be able to shape the kingdom as you see fit, and either expand it internally or through conquest. And with every new game, you'll create a hero with a variety of traits and the obligatory "fatal flaw." (Ours always forgets to wash his hands, for example.)

The Sims Medieval is currently slated to launch in Spring 2011. Head into the gallery below for the first screens.

Gallery: The Sims Medieval

JoystiqEA announces The Sims Medieval for PC and Mac originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 03 Aug 2010 10:08:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaea-playmacpcthe-simsthe-sims-medievalTue, 03 Aug 2010 10:08:00 EST<![CDATA[Gaikai signs multi-year licensing deal with EA]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/gaikai-signs-multi-year-licensing-deal-with-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/gaikai-signs-multi-year-licensing-deal-with-ea/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/18/gaikai-signs-multi-year-licensing-deal-with-ea/#commentsFiled under: , ,


Gaikai may not be ready for action just yet (the service doesn't have a release date), but the company was more than happy to drop news of a multi-year licensing agreement with Electronic Arts today. The news appears to be delivering on promises that the company's fearless leader, Dave Perry, made back in April of a big E3 announcement. Among the games Gaikai will be bringing to the web-streaming service are The Sims, the Battlefield: Bad Company series, the Dragon Age series, the Mass Effect series, Medal of Honor and Need for Speed.

"Gaikai's innovations open whole new experiences for both current players and new customers looking for the best of interactive entertainment," EA's Richard Hilleman said of the licensing deal. We're open to both "whole new experiences" and "interactive entertainment," so that sounds just fantastic to us.

JoystiqGaikai signs multi-year licensing deal with EA originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 18 Jun 2010 01:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Battlefield-Bad-CompanyDragon-Age-Originse3-2010EAElectronic-ArtsGaikaiMass-EffectMass-Effect-2Medal-of-HonorpcRichard-HillemanThe-SimsFri, 18 Jun 2010 01:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sims 3 console trailer exposes the dark nature of humanity]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/sims-3-console-trailer-exposes-the-dark-nature-of-humanity/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/sims-3-console-trailer-exposes-the-dark-nature-of-humanity/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/07/sims-3-console-trailer-exposes-the-dark-nature-of-humanity/#commentsFiled under: , ,

"I did it with 312 girls in two months."

That unsavory proclamation is the first in a long series of deep, dark confessions made in the debut trailer, currently hosted on MTV, for the console versions of The Sims 3. Watch as ordinary people -- by which, of course, we mean paid, professional actors -- air out their dirty, in-game laundry.

We find the whole ordeal more than a little surprising. We've always conducted ourselves in the world of The Sims just as we do in real life -- that is to say, as fine, upstanding citizens. Not as murderers, thieves and unashamed hussies.

JoystiqSims 3 console trailer exposes the dark nature of humanity originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 07 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>dseaElectronic-Artsmaxismicrosoftnintendoplaystationps3The-Simsthe-sims-3wiixboxXbox-360Mon, 07 Jun 2010 21:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 'Medieval' web domains registered]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/the-sims-medieval-web-domains-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/the-sims-medieval-web-domains-registered/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/06/01/the-sims-medieval-web-domains-registered/#comments A fan site of all things Simlish, called Infinite Sims, recently uncovered a handful of web domains registered by the ever-stealthy, third-party outfit Corporate Domains, Inc. These reserved addresses could be an indication of an upcoming expansion to the Sims universe -- one that could take the bright, cheerful world of Sunset Valley back into the Dark Ages.

The reserved domain names all include some variation of "thesimsmedieval" or "thesimsgetmedieval," which might hint at the subject matter of the next batch of content for the highly successful franchise. Hey, we wouldn't mind trying to move up the Sim caste system. Maybe learn how to joust? Perhaps go pheasant hunting in the northern wilds? Learn how to relieve ourselves properly in a sturdy waste bucket? No, wait. That last thing sounds terrible.

JoystiqThe Sims 'Medieval' web domains registered originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 01 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>domaineaElectronic-ArtsexpansionmaxismedievalregistrationThe-Simsthe-sims-medievalTue, 01 Jun 2010 16:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3 coming to PS3, Xbox 360, Wii and DS this fall]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-sims-3-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-wii-and-ds-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-sims-3-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-wii-and-ds-this-fall/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/27/the-sims-3-coming-to-ps3-xbox-360-wii-and-ds-this-fall/#comments As promised, last year's best-selling PC franchise is finally coming to consoles, and just in time for the holiday season. EA has announced that The Sims 3 is in development for PS3, Xbox 360, Wii and DS, with all versions planned for fall release. The console versions promise "all-new" features, like "Karma Powers" that determine whether your Sim can "get lucky" or, on the other end of the spectrum, experience an "epic fail." In addition, the PS3 and Xbox 360 editions will include Facebook connectivity, so you can share Trophy and Achievement updates with friends.

The Wii version will feature an exclusive beach town, complete with its own residents, careers and "lifetime wishes"; and the DS version will introduce a new "Story Mode," a first for a handheld Sims game, allowing players to go through a "complete life simulation."

"We're bringing players the best console and handheld game for The Sims franchise to date and are excited to offer a unique experience for all types of gamers on their platform of choice," said executive producer Sam Player in EA's announcement. And there's good reason for the publisher to be excited, too -- considering the franchise has already generated over $2.5 billion in revenue for EA. We can already hear EA's coffers quivering in anticipation.

Gallery: The Sims 3 (Console Editions)

JoystiqThe Sims 3 coming to PS3, Xbox 360, Wii and DS this fall originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:41:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>consolesDSeaea-playElectronic-ArtsfacebookMicrosoftNintendosimsthe-simsthe-sims-3WiiXbox-360Tue, 27 Apr 2010 09:41:00 EST<![CDATA[Renault saves the fake Sims 3 world with downloadable electric cars]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/renault-saves-the-fake-sims-3-world-with-downloadable-electric-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/renault-saves-the-fake-sims-3-world-with-downloadable-electric-c/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/04/19/renault-saves-the-fake-sims-3-world-with-downloadable-electric-c/#commentsAre you rife with guilt over the damage your Sims' extravagant lifestyles have done to their nonexistent environment? Now you'll be able to reduce your simulated carbon footprint and decrease your dependence on the imaginary world's dwindling supply of e-fossil fuels by driving an electric Renault Twizy Z.E Concept in-game.

The tie-up with Renault is part of the "Electric Vehicle Pack," a free Sims 3 download to be offered in EMEA countries, comprising the car and other environmentally conscious items like solar panels and windmills. Despite the fact that all cars are electric in the game (because they're inside your computer, which is electric), driving the tiny Renault and using the other items will noticeably improve your Sims' lives -- by reducing their weekly bills.

Gallery: Renault Twizy Z.E. in The Sims 3

JoystiqRenault saves the fake Sims 3 world with downloadable electric cars originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectric-vehicle-packElectronic-Artseuroperenaultrenault-twizy-zesimssims-3the-simsthe-sims-3Mon, 19 Apr 2010 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Hunt ghosts in the new Sims 3 Ambitions trailer]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/hunt-ghosts-in-the-new-sims-3-ambitions-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/hunt-ghosts-in-the-new-sims-3-ambitions-trailer/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/09/hunt-ghosts-in-the-new-sims-3-ambitions-trailer/#commentsThere's really only one important thing to take away from the new trailer for The Sims 3 Ambitions expansion. The expansion allows players to extend the lives of their sims, endowing them with many different career options, including inventor, fireman or a detective. None of that is important, though. What is important, is that the expansion allows you to be a Ghostbuster. Legal reasons probably prevent it from being called ghost busting, of course. Atari and EA's lawyers wouldn't want anyone crossing the memes, after all.

Check out the ghost busting catching action -- along with the other professions -- in the trailer above.

Gallery: The Sims 3: Ambitions


[Via Big Download]

JoystiqHunt ghosts in the new Sims 3 Ambitions trailer originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 09 Mar 2010 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>electronic-artsmaxisthe-simsthe-sims-2the-sims-3-world-adventuresTue, 09 Mar 2010 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims explore their 'Ambitions' in latest expansion pack]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/the-sims-explore-their-ambitions-in-latest-expansion-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/the-sims-explore-their-ambitions-in-latest-expansion-pack/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/04/the-sims-explore-their-ambitions-in-latest-expansion-pack/#comments It's time for EA to announce the latest Sims 3 expansion: Ambitions. Arriving in June, the pack gives players the opportunity to pull the strings of the helpless electronic dolls throughout their careers. No longer safe from Little Susie's megalomania on the job, the Sims will now do their work as a conduit for an ethically ambiguous puppeteer. Although, we doubt it'll ever get to the visceral level of Five Minutes to Kill Yourself.

Ambitions will apparently include a huge variety of jobs, including solving cases as a detective, hunting ghosts as a (wait for it) "ghost hunter," and "leveraging Build and Buy mode" as an architect. The expansion also includes a tattoo system -- so, go ahead and give your teenage Sim that tribal or barbed wire ink they'll regret every time they take a blurred-out shower as an adult.

JoystiqThe Sims explore their 'Ambitions' in latest expansion pack originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Mar 2010 10:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ambitionseaelectronic-artsexpansionThe-Simsthe-sims-3the-sims-3-ambitionsThu, 04 Mar 2010 10:45:00 EST<![CDATA[Sims 3: World Adventures, Skate It announced for iPhone]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/sims-3-world-adventures-skate-it-announced-for-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/sims-3-world-adventures-skate-it-announced-for-iphone/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/03/03/sims-3-world-adventures-skate-it-announced-for-iphone/#comments
Click image to flip through some screens

EA's going iPhone crazy -- well, OK, maybe not crazy, but it's revealed today in a press release that entries in two of its ongoing series are destined for the touchy-feely handheld. The first item is The Sims 3: World Adventures, an expansion to the surprisingly addictive The Sims 3. It'll feature 52 new goals, four new mini-games and new "personas, careers and quests." You'll also be able to use your Sims between the two games, in case you've grown awkwardly attached to your virtual pals like we have.

Then there's Skate It, a port of the skateboarding series that sounds like it keeps most of the features of its console brethren. There's a career mode and customization options for both characters and skate decks, a film feature that lets you capture footage and there's even support for custom soundtracks -- because hitting that spot you found on skafari is so much better when you've got "Caribbean Queen" bumping in your ears.

Sadly, EA doesn't provide a price point for each, though Skate It is revealed for "May 2010." In the meanwhile, allow us to help you pass the time with some screens in the galleries below.

Gallery: The Sims 3: World Adventures (iPhone)


Gallery: Skate It (iPhone)

JoystiqSims 3: World Adventures, Skate It announced for iPhone originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 03 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleeaElectronic-ArtsiPodrelease-dateskateskate-itthe-simsthe-sims-3the-sims-3-world-adventuresWed, 03 Mar 2010 20:00:00 EST<![CDATA[EA expands Salt Lake studio, announces 'groundbreaking' new project]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/ea-expands-salt-lake-studio-announces-groundbreaking-new-proj/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/ea-expands-salt-lake-studio-announces-groundbreaking-new-proj/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/25/ea-expands-salt-lake-studio-announces-groundbreaking-new-proj/#commentsEA's got something cooking in Utah, as a recent press release states EA Salt Lake is getting some plush new office space downtown, as it gears up to undertake a "groundbreaking" new project and looks to hire people for "several critical leadership positions." EA Redwood Shores is also apparently getting in the mix, as executive producer Ben Bell told IndustryGamers his studio will enlist the aid of some of the best and brightest from over yonder.

Everyone is pretty mum on the subject of exactly what the project is right now, but, following EA's massive layoffs affecting 1,500 of its employees, Bell bills this expansion of talent to only "a few key positions right now." The new project will lean heavily on EA Salt Lake and EA Redwood Shores for most of the necessary personnel.

EA Salt Lake is perhaps best known for producing The Sims line of games. Maxis obviously created the franchise, but since the release of Spore, has been focusing primarily on that series. EA Salt Lake also handles the EA Play line of games, and has contributed Nerf N-Strike and Littlest Pet Shop. Now, we wouldn't want to speculate on what this new project is, but if you look at the studio's track record since officially becoming EA Salt Lake, one can't help but assume it'll be something on the PC or a Nintendo platform. That, or it's a golf game.

JoystiqEA expands Salt Lake studio, announces 'groundbreaking' new project originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>ben-belleaea-redwood-shoresea-salt-lakeElectronic-Artslittlest-pet-shopnerf-n-strikethe-simsThu, 25 Feb 2010 16:40:00 EST<![CDATA[Dead Space 2 and EA's Epic shooter slated for early 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/08/dead-space-2-and-ea-epic-shooter-slated-for-early-2011/#comments EA's tentative release schedule for Q4 of its fiscal 2011 (or, as us normal people call it, January-March 2011) contains more than a few intriguing entries. You already heard about the new Dragon Age game -- but listed just below that is an untitled "Shooter from Epic TBA." Of course, this can only mean one thing: Gears of Madden 2012 is within spitting distance of becoming a sweet reality! Wait -- what's that? Oh, right, the listing more likely points to new speculative details about that possible "Bulletstorm" project from Epic's People Can Fly studio. How ... unofficial.

Also listed under the early 2011 releases is Dead Space 2, which EA had previously promised would drop before next March. The excitement level of the remaining games drops off like the deep end of a pool: The list includes (deep breath) a new Need For Speed on consoles and PC (in addition to an apparent Holiday 2010 release), a downloadable "action" game, a new fighting game designated as a "sports" title, a new Hasbro game (more Family Game Night?), and new installments in the Sims and Spore franchises.

JoystiqDead Space 2 and EA's Epic shooter slated for early 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>bulletstormdead-spacedead-space-2eaea-sportselectronic-artsfamily-game-nightMicrosoftneed-for-speedNintendopeople-can-flyq1-2011release-datethe-simsWiiXbox-360Mon, 08 Feb 2010 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims franchise celebrates 10th anniversary today]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/the-sims-franchise-celebrates-tenth-anniversary-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/the-sims-franchise-celebrates-tenth-anniversary-today/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/04/the-sims-franchise-celebrates-tenth-anniversary-today/#comments It's hard to believe it's been 10 years since we discovered how hilarious it was to lock a Sim in a doorless room with nothing but ovens to keep him company, but there it is: The Sims franchise has turned 10 years old today. The press release announcing the series' first decade also reveals that the franchise has sold 125 million units lifetime-to-date, which is an impressive figure -- especially when you consider EA is only reporting the PC franchise numbers. That figure doesn't include console ports.

The Sims franchise has managed to generate $2.5 billion in revenue for EA. The latest iteration in the series, The Sims 3, was 2009's top-selling PC game and has sold 4.5 million copies so far worldwide. While one could argue the latest game's success is in large part due to the series' ability to appeal to just about every type of gamer, we'd argue that the inclusion of Ludwig Kietzmann really helped push it over the top.

JoystiqThe Sims franchise celebrates 10th anniversary today originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 04 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>the-simsthe-sims-2the-sims-3the-sims-3-world-adventuresThu, 04 Feb 2010 22:00:00 EST<![CDATA[WSJ: Playfish creating social game based on 'well-known EA brand']]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/wsj-playfish-creating-social-game-based-on-well-known-ea-brand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/wsj-playfish-creating-social-game-based-on-well-known-ea-brand/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/02/02/wsj-playfish-creating-social-game-based-on-well-known-ea-brand/#comments The Wall Street Journal today examines "Why Playfish Sold Itself to EA." Um, wouldn't you sell yourself for $300 million? While such an investigation might seem trivial, the WSJ calls in Playfish president and GM Kristian Segerstrale, who reveals that several hundred million is merely chump change. Playfish certainly considered a road to riches paved in the arduous process of going public as an independent company, but "as we advanced our conversations with EA, what became clear was that this would be genuine opportunity to accelerate our pace of growth and build a billion-dollar business faster," Segerstrale explains.

To realize this dream -- to get rich really quick -- Playfish clearly saw it would take more than its prowess as a stand-out developer in the burgeoning social games arena. It would take brand power. According to the WSJ, as suggested by Segerstrale, "there will be a social game based on a well-known EA brand this year." Hardly a revelation, to be sure, but it's at least confirmation of a killer strategy. Take an established IP -- likely EA's The Sims -- and adapt it for a network of social gaming experiences that spans persistent platforms like Facebook and the iPhone. Oh, so that's why Playfish sold itself to EA.

[Via Develop]

JoystiqWSJ: Playfish creating social game based on 'well-known EA brand' originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 02 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>Applebusiness-strategycasualeaElectronic-ArtsfacebookiPodmobileplayfishsocial-gamesthe-simsTue, 02 Feb 2010 13:15:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Sims 3 is top selling PC game in 2009 worldwide]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/ea-sims-3-is-top-selling-pc-game-in-2009-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/ea-sims-3-is-top-selling-pc-game-in-2009-worldwide/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/22/ea-sims-3-is-top-selling-pc-game-in-2009-worldwide/#comments It seems virtual voyeurism never goes out of style. A recent Electronic Arts press release has informed us that The Sims 3 was last year's best-selling PC game across the globe, according to Chart-track UK, NPD Group, GfK and the publisher's own internal estimates. We imagine a bit of number crunching went into the aforementioned estimates -- we don't think they'd leave that kind of thing to water cooler talk. "So, what do you think, Mark? Best game ever? Yes, great. It's official."

The EA presser also boasts the company's optimistic outlook on 2010, as the Sims 3 community continues to tinker around with the Create A World tools. Check out this neat, Robinson Crusoe-esque Machinima to see what these tools are capable of!

JoystiqEA: Sims 3 is top selling PC game in 2009 worldwide originally appeared on Joystiq on Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>2009best-sellerseaelectronic-artsmaxisthe-simsthe-sims-3Fri, 22 Jan 2010 14:30:00 EST<![CDATA[EA: Medal of Honor, Dead Space 2, Crysis 2 before March 2011]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/ea-medal-of-honor-dead-space-2-crysis-2-before-march-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/ea-medal-of-honor-dead-space-2-crysis-2-before-march-2011/http://www.joystiq.com/2010/01/12/ea-medal-of-honor-dead-space-2-crysis-2-before-march-2011/#comments During EA's half-hour investor callstravaganza yesterday, CEO John Riccitiello unleashed a flurry of game titles set to be released in the company's "FIscal 2011." For EA, that falls anywhere between April 1, 2010 and March 30, 2011 -- a window that now holds the release of "a great new version of Medal of Honor, a revitalized Need for Speed, Sims on console, FIFA in a World Cup year, an innovative and new take on Madden, Dead Space 2, Crysis at full margins, a new MMA game, and many others."

Considering this laundry list of games is getting little more than a 12-month window for release, we're taking the logical next step and throwing darts at images of the games on our cork-board calendar. According to our impeccable aim... everything is coming out in November. Not helpful!

[Via Eurogamer]

JoystiqEA: Medal of Honor, Dead Space 2, Crysis 2 before March 2011 originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>crysiscrysis-2dead-spacedead-space-2eaea-mmaea-sportsElectronic-Artsfifainvestor-callmaddenmedal-of-honorMedal-of-Honor-2010Microsoftmmaneed-for-speedpcrelease-datesimsthe-simsXbox-360Tue, 12 Jan 2010 12:45:00 EST<![CDATA[PETA chooses The Sims 3 as its GOTY 2009]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/peta-chooses-the-sims-3-as-its-goty-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/peta-chooses-the-sims-3-as-its-goty-2009/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/12/31/peta-chooses-the-sims-3-as-its-goty-2009/#comments Usually when we post something about PETA here on our gamez blawg, it's about the company protesting this or complaining about that. Not so today, as PETA's awarded EA Maxis' The Sims 3 with a Proggy Award for being the 'Most Animal-Friendly Game' of 2009. You may remember PETA gave the same award to Fable 2 last year.

The award this year is in recognition of The Sims 3's ability to put your virtual pal on a vegetarian diet. PETA also adds that "vegetarian Sims, like their real-life counterparts, live longer, age more slowly, and feast on cruelty-free delights -- from tofu dogs to ratatouille." Sounds well and good, but we're not sure we'd totally attribute any supposed increased life span to a diet, because we all know from the great Xena: Warrior Princess that if anything happens, it's because a wizard did it.

[Via Gamasutra]

JoystiqPETA chooses The Sims 3 as its GOTY 2009 originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 31 Dec 2009 05:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsmaxispetaproggyproggy-awardsimssims-3the-simsthe-sims-3Thu, 31 Dec 2009 05:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3 World Adventures downloadable now, hitting retail this week]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/the-sims-3-world-adventures-downloadable-now-hitting-retail-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/the-sims-3-world-adventures-downloadable-now-hitting-retail-thi/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/18/the-sims-3-world-adventures-downloadable-now-hitting-retail-thi/#comments Is your Sim sick and tired of its usual routine of skipping work, improving its skills, making well-timed bathroom trips and attempting to WooHoo every single person in the neighborhood? Good news: The Sims 3's first (but certainly not last) expansion, World Adventures, is downloadable now for $39.99. If you're an oddly selective Luddite who plays video games but shuns the practice of downloading them, you can pick up a copy of the expansion in retail outlets when it arrives at some unspecified time this week.

The expansion allows your virtual representation (be honest, you modeled him/her after yourself, right?) to collect treasures, learn new skills and travel to France, China and Egypt, where we assume they'll attempt to WooHoo everyone there as well. You should really talk to your Sim about getting that under control, okay?

Gallery: The Sims 3: World Adventures

JoystiqThe Sims 3 World Adventures downloadable now, hitting retail this week originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 18 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsexpansionmaxissimthe-simsthe-sims-3the-sims-3-world-adventuresWed, 18 Nov 2009 15:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Video: Nelly Furtado sings in Simlish, raids tombs, knows kung fu]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/video-nelly-furtado-sings-in-simlish-raids-tombs-knows-kung-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/video-nelly-furtado-sings-in-simlish-raids-tombs-knows-kung-f/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/14/video-nelly-furtado-sings-in-simlish-raids-tombs-knows-kung-f/#comments The latest of the previously announced Simlish music videos promoting the expansion Sims 3: World Adventures has been released. This time, it's Nelly Furtado's turn to try her hand at the nonsensical language, adapting her song "Manos al Aire." We've watched the video and, sure enough, we can't understand a word of it. Of course, the original song is in Spanish, so we couldn't understand it in the first place anyway.

But that's really all beside the point. What you should be focusing on is watching Nelly Furtado's Sim explore Egyptian tombs, doling out some kung-fu kicks and taking part in the longstanding tradition of obscure French film making.

JoystiqVideo: Nelly Furtado sings in Simlish, raids tombs, knows kung fu originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 14 Nov 2009 00:32:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmaxisnelly-furtadosimssims-3sims-3-world-adventuresThe-Simsthe-sims-3the-sims-3-world-adventuresSat, 14 Nov 2009 00:32:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims transformed into a horror movie]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/the-sims-transformed-into-a-horror-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/the-sims-transformed-into-a-horror-movie/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/11/04/the-sims-transformed-into-a-horror-movie/#comments
"They won't let me pee, they won't let me sleep, they won't let me eat." - doomed Sim citizen

Ah yes, the life of a Sim. Not so funny when one sees what life would be like if our actions were controlled by the unholy Plumbob (which is itself controlled by little Damian Van Horne of 999 Wisteria Lane). We understand that CollegeHumor was trying to be funny in its The Sims movie clip, but it actually encapsulates the pain and suffering of every Sim murdered by sadistic teenage girls around the world. Watch the full clip after the break. Save a Sim.

Continue reading The Sims transformed into a horror movie

JoystiqThe Sims transformed into a horror movie originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>college-humoreaelectronic-artsthe-simsthe-sims-3Wed, 04 Nov 2009 06:00:00 EST<![CDATA[Sims 3 price dropped to $30 for one day only]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/sims-3-price-dropped-to-30-for-one-day-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/sims-3-price-dropped-to-30-for-one-day-only/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/31/sims-3-price-dropped-to-30-for-one-day-only/#comments The streak of brief yet impossibly frugal discounts continues! Until the end of the day, EA is selling The Sims 3 for the price of $29.99 -- a full twenty bucks off the standard cost of the game. Maxis' life simulators tend to retain their launch price long after hitting store shelves, so if you want to grab the title on the cheap, today might be your only chance for quite some time. Act quickly, though! We're losing daylight.

JoystiqSims 3 price dropped to $30 for one day only originally appeared on Joystiq on Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:35:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>discounteaElectronic-Artshalloween2009maxissalesimulatorthe-simsthe-sims-3Sat, 31 Oct 2009 15:35:00 EST<![CDATA[LeAnn Rimes sings in 'Simlish' for The Sims 3: World Adventures, creeps out loved ones]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/leann-rimes-sings-in-simlish-for-the-sims-3-world-adventures/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/leann-rimes-sings-in-simlish-for-the-sims-3-world-adventures/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/10/14/leann-rimes-sings-in-simlish-for-the-sims-3-world-adventures/#comments Okay, okay, we're not 100% sure that Ms. Rimes will be creeping out her loved ones by adding her to-be-released track "You've Ruined Me" to The Sims 3's next expansion, World Adventures, but we'll call it an educated guess. Rimes headlines a list of artists found after the break, including a group named Natalie Portman's Shaved Head, who will appear in the expansion singing original songs in the game's fictional language -- "Simlish."

The country/pop singer will be offering a rendition of an unreleased track said to be the lead on her upcoming album. Unfortunately, given the nature of "Simlish" (it's untranslatable), fans hoping for the chance to hear the unreleased track early when the expansion launches this November will be out of luck. Unless they're into gibberish languages, that is.

Gallery: The Sims 3: World Adventures

Continue reading LeAnn Rimes sings in 'Simlish' for The Sims 3: World Adventures, creeps out loved ones

JoystiqLeAnn Rimes sings in 'Simlish' for The Sims 3: World Adventures, creeps out loved ones originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 14 Oct 2009 20:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>digital-distrubtiondlceaea-maxisElectronic-Artsexpansionleann-rimesmaxispcsimlishthe-simsthe-sims-3the-sims-3-world-adventuresworld-adventuresWed, 14 Oct 2009 20:30:00 EST<![CDATA[New nonsensical music announced for The Sims 3 World Adventures]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/new-nonsensical-music-announced-for-the-sims-3-world-adventures/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/new-nonsensical-music-announced-for-the-sims-3-world-adventures/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/08/18/new-nonsensical-music-announced-for-the-sims-3-world-adventures/#comments
EA just announced a few details of the soundtrack for the upcoming Sims 3 expansion The Sims 3 World Adventures. In keeping with the theme, the company will include artists from around the world -- well, sort of. The confirmed artists include Canadian Nelly Furtado, German Stefanie Heinzmann, Americans Matt & Kim, and Young Punx and the previously announced Pixie Lott from the UK. In keeping with Sims tradition, those artists are all re-recording their songs in Simlish.

"I think it's really cool to have a song in The Sims 3 World Adventures," Pixie Lott said. "You can go over to a radio in the game, play the Simlish version of "Mama Do," and take that radio with you anywhere you go inside the game!" Yes, you can do that. The list of currently confirmed songs is after the break -- with titles and artists in English for your convenience.

Gallery: The Sims 3: World Adventures



Continue reading New nonsensical music announced for The Sims 3 World Adventures

JoystiqNew nonsensical music announced for The Sims 3 World Adventures originally appeared on Joystiq on Tue, 18 Aug 2009 15:10:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmaxismusicsimlishthe-simsthe-sims-3the-sims-3-world-adventuresTue, 18 Aug 2009 15:10:00 EST<![CDATA[Re-recording music in Simlish is easier than it sounds]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/re-recording-music-in-simlish-is-easier-than-it-sounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/re-recording-music-in-simlish-is-easier-than-it-sounds/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/07/09/re-recording-music-in-simlish-is-easier-than-it-sounds/#comments
Though the "Simlish" language that permeates The Sims (as well as a few other Will Wright-crafted franchises) is largely improvised by the series' voice actors, the musicians that provide the games' soundtracks have a bit more work to do than that. This translation process was recently explained by UK recording artist Pixie Lott in a video diary we've posted after the break.

Lott, (who is only 18, you creepy creepster) guides us through the steps required to Sim-ify her current chart-topper, "Mama Do," which sounds suspiciously like "Marmaduke" to our un-indoctrinated American ears. Man, if only!

Continue reading Re-recording music in Simlish is easier than it sounds

JoystiqRe-recording music in Simlish is easier than it sounds originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 09 Jul 2009 02:02:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmaxismusicpcpixie-lottsimlishthe-simsthe-sims-3videoThu, 09 Jul 2009 02:02:00 EST<![CDATA[What's 'Dr Pepper' in Simlish? You'll find out soon]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/whats-dr-pepper-in-simlish-youll-find-out-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/whats-dr-pepper-in-simlish-youll-find-out-soon/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/25/whats-dr-pepper-in-simlish-youll-find-out-soon/#commentsEA and Dr Pepper have announced a "multimillion-dollar marketing agreement" that will add exclusive content to EA games for Dr Pepper consumers, starting with The Sims 3 and spreading to other EA titles throughout 2010.

"Early next year," Dr Pepper packages will include codes to unlock exclusive downloadable items in The Sims 3. The details are tentative, but the press release offers "one-of-a-kind beach party items or all the elements of a perfect fall tailgating party" as examples -- no doubt examples of downloadable items that will happen to carry the Dr Pepper logo. Though it's less likely Dr Pepper will be able to get away with branding the exclusive content in, say, a Dead Space sequel.

JoystiqWhat's 'Dr Pepper' in Simlish? You'll find out soon originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>advertisingdlcdr-peppereaElectronic-Artsmarketingthe-simsthe-sims-3Thu, 25 Jun 2009 10:00:00 EST<![CDATA[iPhone It In: The Sims 3]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/iphone-it-in-the-sims-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/iphone-it-in-the-sims-3/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/iphone-it-in-the-sims-3/#comments
I'm not going to sit here and act like I'm not embarrassed by how enthralled I am with the downsized version of The Sims 3 that EA released for the iPhone. But the fact remains: I'm hooked, and I figure if I pass the addiction on to you, I won't seem like such an oddball.

I haven't played the new Sims release, so I don't really have that as a frame of reference. What I do know is that all the tropes of the series seem to be here: Create a person, meet their needs and help them get a family, career, the whole bit.

Gallery: The Sims 3 [iPhone]

Continue reading iPhone It In: The Sims 3

JoystiqiPhone It In: The Sims 3 originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 20:55:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>AppleeaElectronic-Artsiphoneiphone-it-iniPodmaxisthe-simsMon, 22 Jun 2009 20:55:00 EST<![CDATA[UK chart get: Prototype on top, Ghostbusters debuts at third]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/uk-chart-get-prototype-on-top-ghostbusters-debuts-at-third/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/uk-chart-get-prototype-on-top-ghostbusters-debuts-at-third/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/22/uk-chart-get-prototype-on-top-ghostbusters-debuts-at-third/#comments
According to Chart Track's UK software sales figures from last week, we know the Barry Pepper-voiced free-roamer, Prototype, has managed to secure the top spot. It wasn't an easy battle, as Radical Entertainment's title had some stiff competition in Terminal Reality's Ghostbusters, which made its debut in the UK last week.

The ghost bustin' reunion was not enough to topple the "go anywhere, kill everything" game, and managed to secure the bronze with a third place showing. It should be noted that this is the all-format charts, and with it being a PS3 exclusive in the territory (Xbox 360 owners do have options, though), third is pretty impressive for a game on just one platform (excluding Wii Fit). As for second place, The Sims 3 dropped down from its cushy throne last week thanks to a 49% decline in sales. Don't feel too bad for the game, though -- it did have the best PC launch in EA's history, you know.

JoystiqUK chart get: Prototype on top, Ghostbusters debuts at third originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:15:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>activisionatarichart-trackeaElectronic-ArtsghostbustersmaxisMicrosoftprototyperadicalradical-entertainmentsonyterminal-realitythe-simsukXbox-360Mon, 22 Jun 2009 15:15:00 EST<![CDATA[Sims 3 has best EA PC launch ever]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/sims-3-has-best-ea-pc-launch-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/sims-3-has-best-ea-pc-launch-ever/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/06/10/sims-3-has-best-ea-pc-launch-ever/#comments
Just in case you forgot: The Sims is a huge, huge franchise. Just how huge was demonstrated last week when The Sims 3 sold 1.4 million units, making it the best PC game launch in EA's history. If you're still not convinced of the hugeness: The iPhone version of the game became the top-selling paid iPhone app, even with its $9.99 price tag, in about 18 hours.

So just remember, kids: When someone tells you that PC gaming is dead, your mom's the one giving it CPR.

JoystiqSims 3 has best EA PC launch ever originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 10 Jun 2009 10:31:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmaxisthe-simsthe-sims-3Wed, 10 Jun 2009 10:31:00 EST<![CDATA[30 Rock passes along wise Sims parenting advice]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/30-rock-passes-along-wise-sims-parenting-advice/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/30-rock-passes-along-wise-sims-parenting-advice/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/05/13/30-rock-passes-along-wise-sims-parenting-advice/#comments
Listen. We really wanted to make the focus of this post the humorous nod to EA and Maxis' life-emulator The Sims that was featured on last night's episode of 30 Rock. It's one of our favorite shows, making a reference to one of our most beloved franchises, and ... well, it actually teaches us a valuable lesson about parenting. You can check out Liz Lemon's sagacious suggestion on Hulu (it's around the 1:20 mark).

Yes, we'd love to focus on that, but unfortunately, we find it difficult to write about 30 Rock on our humble gaming blog without instead turning your attention to Werewolf Bar Mitzvah. If you've got time to watch both of these clips, please do -- if you only have time for one, it's hard for us to endorse anything except Tracy Jordan's lupine magnum opus.

[Via Kotaku]

Joystiq30 Rock passes along wise Sims parenting advice originally appeared on Joystiq on Wed, 13 May 2009 17:30:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>30-rockeaElectronic-Artsmaxisnbcthe-simstvWed, 13 May 2009 17:30:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3 lets players make their own movies]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/the-sims-3-lets-players-make-their-own-movies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/the-sims-3-lets-players-make-their-own-movies/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/16/the-sims-3-lets-players-make-their-own-movies/#commentsIf locking your Sims in doorless rooms with little more company than a hot stove just doesn't seem like enough content for a game, then know that EA is upping the ante in The Sims 3. Instead of subjecting your Sims to your cruel whims just for the fun of it, you can now turn your dastardly behavior into actual machinima, courtesy of an included movie tool set. The editing process features effects like swipes, fades, and even soundtracks, so you can use The Sims for your next Linkin Park video or whatever you're up to these days.

The Sims 3 is slated for a PC release on June 2, 2009.

Gallery: Sims 3 video tool set

JoystiqThe Sims 3 lets players make their own movies originally appeared on Joystiq on Thu, 16 Apr 2009 23:00:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaElectronic-Artsmaxispcthe-simsthe-sims-3Thu, 16 Apr 2009 23:00:00 EST<![CDATA[The Sims 3 marketing is impossible to miss]]>http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/the-sims-3-marketing-is-impossible-to-miss/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/the-sims-3-marketing-is-impossible-to-miss/http://www.joystiq.com/2009/04/13/the-sims-3-marketing-is-impossible-to-miss/#comments
If there is a green diamond overhead, chances are your eyeballs have just been made victim of Electronic Arts' latest media blitz. EA's marketing team has apparently been working overtime, papering city skylines with posters, banners and billboards hyping The Sims 3, which is expected to devour gamer free time with vampiric tenacity in June.

Clearly delicacy is a lost art, though with profits in freefall, subtlety may be a luxury the mega-publisher simply can't afford.

[Via Kotaku & The Simmers Club]

JoystiqThe Sims 3 marketing is impossible to miss originally appeared on Joystiq on Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:45:00 EST. Please see our terms for use of feeds.

Read | Permalink | Email this | Comments]]>eaelectronic-artsthe-simsthe-sims-3Mon, 13 Apr 2009 08:45:00 EST