Hello Everyone,
It's been another busy week here at Maxis for The Sims 2 Development Team. And I had a great time with the chat yesterday... (Loved that 3some question...)
Here at Maxis, we are battling the "post holiday" blues. Every January, most people are bitten by the "home improvement bug" and are inspired to tackle house décor projects to combat the melancholy. The Sims in The Sims 2 are no different. Embracing this theme, I thought I'd update you as to the new "Décor Collections" for building and decorating your dream home or living space in The Sims 2.
In The Sims 2, decorating reaches new heights of style and sophistication. You will be now be able to choose objects for your Sims' environment from a dozen new décor styles. The game will include a variety of themed style collections that include Asian, Modern and Moroccan. The collections will include furniture, accessories, and wall and floor treatments from each specific theme. Players will also be able to add, delete, or create new objects within these collections or create an entirely new collection. We imagine that players will enjoy creating and sharing their own decor collections with one another. Who needs those home decorating shows when you have The Sims 2?
Here are a few screenshots that show off rooms decorated with three
different decor collections including Asian, Modern and Moroccan.
In case you didn't catch my live chat yesterday on the website, be sure
check out the transcripts at http://thesims2.ea.com/community/chat_01_22_04.phpMore to come next week!
Cheers,
Luc
Sims News
General Manager Luc Barthelet joined us in chat today.
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 5:59:14 PM)
Hello and Welcome to today's chat with Maxis General Manager, Luc Barthelet! Some of you may be familar with him from the Sims2 preview disk.
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 5:59:18 PM)
(and psst...BBS players and you know who you are...no licking of the Luc)
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:00:58 PM)
Hi everyone! Let's go
reanimation (Jan 22, 2004 6:01:18 PM)
will there be bigger resoltuions in the sims 2 ...like 1280x1024
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:01:18 PM)
Yes
niluo (Jan 22, 2004 6:01:26 PM)
What is your favorite new thing about the Sims2?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:01:26 PM)
The video capture in the game
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 6:01:44 PM)
*eyes widen* 496 players all asking questions...please ask the questions slowly
jayguy23 (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:03 PM)
Can sims swim in lakes, oceans or ponds?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:03 PM)
Who would do that after you see the pools in Sims2?
Karynn (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:26 PM)
Can you look through your sim's eyes, like on the sims for console?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:26 PM)
Nope. but there is a camera man mode
tripplee_11 (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:36 PM)
Since death is suppose to be part of the game, will there still be graves filling the yards as they die? or will there be a cemetary??
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:36 PM)
You can make one.
CanineFace (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:51 PM)
Okay.....When........does.......CASie......finally....
....come....out ? (A slow question.
MaxisLucky (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:51 PM)
Please don't ask questions about the release dates for CaSIE or Sims2. That information will be released when Maxis has solid information about it.
Burninator_Trogdor (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:58 PM)
About how slow would the Sims 2 run on a computer about 450MHz or slower? By the way...you rock Luc!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:02:58 PM)
not too well. Time to upgrade
Csim (Jan 22, 2004 6:03:42 PM)
will there be other types of death besides just fire and drowning?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:03:42 PM)
Yes. Old age
ashtay (Jan 22, 2004 6:03:55 PM)
Will there be expansion packs to Sims 2 like "Sims"?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:03:55 PM)
Yes!
Bruce (Jan 22, 2004 6:04:20 PM)
What are the exact length of each life stage? We know babies will become toddlers in 3 sim days, how long for toddlers, teens, adults, and seniors?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:04:20 PM)
We are still tuning that one
Katikins (Jan 22, 2004 6:04:48 PM)
Will there be more outdoor plants and things to decorate gardens in Sims2?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:04:48 PM)
Oh YES
ChEeTaH (Jan 22, 2004 6:05:13 PM)
Luc, how do you feel about all the attention you get from licking teenage girls and that specific fansite? Did you get teased a lot by Will already?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:05:13 PM)
Not by Will but pretty much by everybody else...
Jena (Jan 22, 2004 6:05:25 PM)
Are the new camera features and angles, like the videos, the "big surprise"?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:05:25 PM)
Yes.
bookworm28 (Jan 22, 2004 6:05:45 PM)
Can old people die at different times? Because it would be kind of annoying if all your grandparents died exactly at the same time.
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:05:45 PM)
I agree
Guest (Jan 22, 2004 6:06:09 PM)
Can you elaborate for the public about the video capture feature Luc?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:06:09 PM)
You can "tab" at any time into cameraman mode.
Vilandra (Jan 22, 2004 6:07:45 PM)
Can teen sims get braces or even worse zits?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:07:46 PM)
I am not sure that was the best part of being a teenager
Monsieur Helm (Jan 22, 2004 6:08:47 PM)
what is cameraman mode?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:08:47 PM)
it is a mode in which you can move in the house as if you were playing a first person game
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 6:09:08 PM)
If you continue to post your questions to the main chat section you will be booted
simsstop_barry (Jan 22, 2004 6:09:45 PM)
In a chat transcript it looked like you said that you will be able to download objects etc within TS2 application. Does this mean no more searching sites for skins and objects?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:09:45 PM)
No. You will still be able to get objects from all websites also.
zockedi (Jan 22, 2004 6:10:12 PM)
Please answer at least A FEW question that's aren't about Luc or camera mode! When sim teens run away-where do they go to-do you get to go there with them?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:10:12 PM)
We have community lots also in Sims2.
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 6:10:50 PM)
We are currently experiencing some form of technical difficulty. Please refrain from asking questions for a moment.
Zave (Jan 22, 2004 6:11:24 PM)
IMy question has to do with the marrying of NPC's. If your Sim were to marry the Repo Sim, would they be able to get all of the items that particular NPC took from them in TS2?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:11:24 PM)
The repo man works for the SimCity government...
Coco (Jan 22, 2004 6:11:38 PM)
Question about SimCity 4 imports! What size should the starting city be? What is the smallest as far as squares are the sims houses? eg. 6x6 or 8x8 etc etc. Is it safe to work on my city now?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:11:38 PM)
I believe it is 64x64
beehappy07 (Jan 22, 2004 6:11:53 PM)
I’ve seen in previous TS2 chats that you can buy groceries in community lots. Will food still be in the refrigerator automatically, or will it all come from purchased groceries?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:11:53 PM)
Both
bigsimsfan1 (Jan 22, 2004 6:12:14 PM)
what is going to be the rating of this game
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:12:14 PM)
T rated
keymasterkel (Jan 22, 2004 6:12:42 PM)
In CAS, can you create a "child" (i.e. customize a sim how you want it) and then add the parent AFTER that sim is created? Or must you always create parents first in CAS mode?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:12:42 PM)
If you want to use the DNA you need to create the parent first. if you do it the other way they are adopted.
redhawk (Jan 22, 2004 6:13:24 PM)
If sims are sick, do they have to call their school to tell them that they won't come to school, or do they just stay home and lose grade points?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:13:24 PM)
The sims have day offs
MaSMeL (Jan 22, 2004 6:13:48 PM)
in cameraman mode, can a sim still interact with objects or is it purely for cinematics?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:13:48 PM)
it is meant to be purely cinematic. but you can switch back and force using tab
Guest (Jan 22, 2004 6:14:15 PM)
can u still buy clothes in the community lot?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:14:15 PM)
Yes
ozgod (Jan 22, 2004 6:14:24 PM)
Will we be able to create custome 3D content for Sims 2 by using popular 3D programs (Carrara, Maya, Softimage, etc.)?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:14:24 PM)
Yes. Maya mostly
chargersis1 (Jan 22, 2004 6:14:34 PM)
how many girl friends can u have when ur a teenage in sims?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:14:34 PM)
27?
Joanna (Jan 22, 2004 6:15:44 PM)
We've seen some pretty wild screenshots (obstacle courses, lab experimentations, etc.) does that mean that we will be able to follow our Sims to work? Or is that just some "at home" activities?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:15:44 PM)
Those are at home activities. Sometimes the sims do homework!
XuKano (Jan 22, 2004 6:16:05 PM)
Is there a way to program the way you want the children to look like before they are born?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:16:05 PM)
Yes. If you make them in CAS
pepper (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:04 PM)
hi luc.. i luv you 
.. what can you tell us about those military - cheerleading shots?? Thanx
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:04 PM)
Thanks. That's what happens when a marketing guy (Jerry) plays with the game...
Simsdarling (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:16 PM)
If each sim has their own objects does that mean each sim will have their own money (instead of a big family pot)?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:16 PM)
nope.
Lil Lisa (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:40 PM)
Will we be able to see sims at work and at school, etc. Will sims be able to drive. will moms have days off after having a child or do they have to be worried about getting their child getting taken away
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:40 PM)
They might have to use their day off
Puu (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:54 PM)
Can you still write bios for your sims? And if so... can you write a bio for a sim after it's been moved into a house?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:17:54 PM)
yes
chaseabryant (Jan 22, 2004 6:18:30 PM)
What is the smallest size that a lot can be in the neighborhood, for example now lots in TS1 the larger ones are like forty by forty squares. Can you make teeny tiny ones like ten squares by seven or something like that?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:18:30 PM)
I beliebe they are all multiple of 16x16
CanineFace (Jan 22, 2004 6:20:05 PM)
Is there any chance, you have ONE male sim having TWO female sims girlfriends and that these two female sims still dig eachother. Or are all Sims the jealous type and don't share boy/girlfriends (Phew... what a question)
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:20:05 PM)
The Sims are the jealous type. But the simulation is getting more complex, so there might be a combination of sims that let you do it. I'll have to investigate.
personella (Jan 22, 2004 6:20:18 PM)
do the sims have to "play" to conceive in TS2, or can they just kiss alot like in the 1st game and still get pregnant?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:20:18 PM)
They have to play.
nerahdius (Jan 22, 2004 6:20:31 PM)
does design mode, when used, affect a whole room or just a selected object? the screenshots put out make it seem that you have a few choices that affect all the furniture and flooring and wallpaper in the room
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:20:31 PM)
Just the selected object
ScarsYouGave (Jan 22, 2004 6:21:04 PM)
will everything that i've seen in the preview videos be there? does the game actually look like those movie clips?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:21:04 PM)
Most videos are made using the game. only the E3 video was not.
Schweighsr (Jan 22, 2004 6:21:47 PM)
Will Sims have a personal inventory, similar to what was added in “Hot Date”?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:21:48 PM)
Yes, but we might not show it in the UI.
ScarsYouGave (Jan 22, 2004 6:21:58 PM)
will they still spin to change their clothing?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:21:58 PM)
Absolutely.
simmy2sky (Jan 22, 2004 6:22:20 PM)
MaxisLUC Please!! Do sims actually have number ages like 16,23,35 or just life stages?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:22:20 PM)
They have stages and you know how far they are in their stage.
Deward (Jan 22, 2004 6:23:33 PM)
With the new camera mode being so flexible will we now be able to look upwards towars the sky and will there be things visable in the sky such as clouds and the sun?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:23:33 PM)
Yes you can look upwards. In fact some sims like to look at the clouds.
simsmaster88 (Jan 22, 2004 6:23:57 PM)
Will there be like a meter that tells you how far along in each stage each sim is?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:23:57 PM)
yes
Guest (Jan 22, 2004 6:24:08 PM)
Will we get sim figure versions of you and the entire Sims 2 Team when you ship The Sims 2?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:24:09 PM)
too many people.
Jeeds (Jan 22, 2004 6:24:53 PM)
are there decorating themes, like a 80-ties theme which decorates the entire house, so you don't have to manually set the wallpaper, carpet and things?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:24:53 PM)
the collections organize things by genre. if you stay within a collection you can easily remodel a house.
Jay (Jan 22, 2004 6:25:30 PM)
Will pregnant Sims tire more easily or get hungry faster than normal Sims?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:25:30 PM)
they show the usual signs of pregnancy...
Miss Tris (Jan 22, 2004 6:25:55 PM)
Are you afraid of large groups Luc?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:25:55 PM)
No, I like my chats to be with 500+ users
simmy_dude (Jan 22, 2004 6:26:28 PM)
will the diamond above the heads still change color to match the mood?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:26:28 PM)
Yes it does.
Sugar_and_Spice740 (Jan 22, 2004 6:26:50 PM)
Will we be able to to edit what we video tape and can we make more than one album also would we able to add title to our albums....thanks for anwering all of our annoying questions Luc..lol
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:26:50 PM)
yes you can edit the videos.
Guest (Jan 22, 2004 6:27:35 PM)
Can you turn the ageing meter off certain people?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:27:35 PM)
you can control it at the house level
zockedi (Jan 22, 2004 6:28:01 PM)
Will the "interests" a Sim can have be very different from the sims. Why don't you want to answer the question about how sim 2 personalities will be more defined than the original sims? Your're answering all the old already answered questions.
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:28:01 PM)
yes, the personalities are much more detailed and different.
Godziller101 (Jan 22, 2004 6:28:39 PM)
Can u put special effects in the videos?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:28:39 PM)
yes after the fact
simsstop_barry (Jan 22, 2004 6:29:09 PM)
will the videos be edited within ts2 or with a external program like casie?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:29:09 PM)
more like video premiere. or window movie maker (free)
simmy doodle (Jan 22, 2004 6:29:33 PM)
Will you always get pregnet when you "play"??
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:29:33 PM)
I guess I would have hundreds of kids then.
simmy2sky (Jan 22, 2004 6:31:08 PM)
What kind of computer do you play The Sims 2 on, LUC?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:31:08 PM)
I have 3 I use. a 2Ghz laptop with a Radeon 9000. I 2Ghz Desktop and a 3Ghz desktop with ATI 9800 boards
speedreader (Jan 22, 2004 6:31:28 PM)
Tell us about weddings. Will sims get engaged, then have a ceremony with guests? Predetermined guests, or will you invite the people you want?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:31:28 PM)
Yes you will be able to invite Sims to the wedding
JaZzY (Jan 22, 2004 6:31:44 PM)
Can a teen sim get pregnant?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:31:44 PM)
nope.
Godziller101 (Jan 22, 2004 6:32:18 PM)
Can you make something like home movies, that your sims can watch on their tv? Using the cameraman mode, of course.
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:32:18 PM)
I like that idea. The TVs will play any AVI. so you can make movies for your sims
shareallicu (Jan 22, 2004 6:32:42 PM)
I never realized how much time goes into making such a cool game! Are you Tired of the sims 2 yet Luc?!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:32:42 PM)
I wish it was easier too
stony (Jan 22, 2004 6:33:11 PM)
Will teenage boys go through stages of...errrmm..."self discovery"?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:33:11 PM)
Don't know if we can do that and stay T rated.
simsmaster88 (Jan 22, 2004 6:33:22 PM)
How is performance on the 2 GHz laptop with a Radeon 9000 GPU? Poor, fair, good, EXCELLENT? 
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:33:22 PM)
Good
zockedi (Jan 22, 2004 6:33:41 PM)
Will a jealous sim who comes to a wedding beable to cause a scene and interrrupt the wedding? Can a sim get cold feet and change his mind after getting engaged?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:33:41 PM)
YES
XuKano (Jan 22, 2004 6:34:25 PM)
Will the tvs play non sim related AVIs?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:34:25 PM)
YES if you move them to the right folder. I think shortcuts work too. like for the MP3 playback
BCD (Jan 22, 2004 6:34:44 PM)
If a married man has an affair and gets another woman pregnant, will his wife know naturally? Can he tell her? Or will she just have to find out through gossip?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:34:44 PM)
She will know only if she sees the event or other sims gossip about it.
kittykatnat (Jan 22, 2004 6:34:57 PM)
Will an Nvidia Geforce FX 5200 128MB give me excellent video?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:34:57 PM)
yes it should
nathan7056 (Jan 22, 2004 6:35:30 PM)
How many real secounds will be a sim minute?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:35:30 PM)
A sim day should be about 15 minutes
sadiesladie (Jan 22, 2004 6:35:48 PM)
what video games can you play on the tvs
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:35:48 PM)
SSX 3
BlonD (Jan 22, 2004 6:36:02 PM)
what about radio features
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:36:02 PM)
it plays MP#s. you can control the play list
collisa21 (Jan 22, 2004 6:36:35 PM)
do sims have birthdays?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:36:35 PM)
Yes.
XuKano (Jan 22, 2004 6:37:32 PM)
Will the Grim Reaper be nicer?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:37:32 PM)
Yes.
eendys (Jan 22, 2004 6:37:59 PM)
soo.............hows life with Bella?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:37:59 PM)
She disappeared. I have not seen her since last time. I am kind of worried.
simmy2sky (Jan 22, 2004 6:38:15 PM)
What else can be done with the couch besides nap and sit, come on Luc tell US!!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:38:15 PM)
make out?
DrummaBabe26 (Jan 22, 2004 6:39:30 PM)
Will there be any new pre-made families living in the neighborhood? and if so, who are they?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:39:30 PM)
Yes. Many. I won't tell before we ship because it is part of the fun.
Monsieur Helm (Jan 22, 2004 6:39:42 PM)
Luc, i have your bella, the price a free game 
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:39:42 PM)
Funny!
slipknot9877332 (Jan 22, 2004 6:39:54 PM)
In the screenshot where the teen got arrested, wat did she do!?!?!?!?!? please answer im going crazy!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:39:54 PM)
Maybe she run out.
eman484 (Jan 22, 2004 6:40:07 PM)
I saw a pic of a sim girl on the phone holding a plate. Does this mean you can do alot of activites while on the phone?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:40:07 PM)
could be that or a bug!
Schweighsr (Jan 22, 2004 6:40:46 PM)
Will we ever see Disabled Sims? [I mean Sims in wheelchairs, or one that need canes/crutches to walk]
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:40:46 PM)
Disabled Sims is a really interesting issue. It is really tough to do in the game because they do so many things standing up.
Willnem (Jan 22, 2004 6:41:28 PM)
Luc, what if we are actually Sims and just dont know it?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:41:28 PM)
I know
giants (Jan 22, 2004 6:41:41 PM)
are there animals in the game
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:41:41 PM)
yes. In the rug.
ShocC (Jan 22, 2004 6:42:06 PM)
What other types of objects will we be able to buy in the community lots, other than groceries? Will it be alot like Unleashed (vegetables etc.), or more like Hot Date (clothes etc.)?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:42:06 PM)
Both
chaseabryant (Jan 22, 2004 6:42:46 PM)
Reflections or cabinets on a refridgerator in a screenshot, can they show up like that in gameplay mode?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:42:46 PM)
Reflections from shiny surfaces and mirror reflections are in the game.
shareallicu (Jan 22, 2004 6:43:36 PM)
How does the Family Tree work? Does it Keep track of ALL sims in that family or does it eventually "cap-Off"??
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:43:36 PM)
It really tries to keep track of all related Sims.
collisa21 (Jan 22, 2004 6:44:11 PM)
can sims see themselves in mirrors
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:44:11 PM)
yes
Enjoji (Jan 22, 2004 6:45:03 PM)
Will a Sim's accessories, like glasses or hats, come off when they go to sleep or take a shower, or will they stay on like Sims1? Please answer?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:45:03 PM)
the sims do not shower with their hat.
alwayslamer247 (Jan 22, 2004 6:45:11 PM)
PLEASE ANSWER ME??????? Will teenager sims be able to cook?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:45:11 PM)
I believe so.
Guest (Jan 22, 2004 6:45:23 PM)
do pregnant sims stay pregnant if aging mode is off?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:45:23 PM)
no. they have their baby.
Kassie (Jan 22, 2004 6:46:15 PM)
Do you think there might ever be a sims 3/
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:46:15 PM)
and 4 5 6...
iluvsims (Jan 22, 2004 6:46:19 PM)
how long will this chat last
MaxisLucky (Jan 22, 2004 6:46:19 PM)
We've got another 15 minutes for this chat - it ends at 4:00 pm PST
ScottyoSim (Jan 22, 2004 6:46:48 PM)
What happens when you don't pay the bills?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:46:48 PM)
I expect some repo.
the sims fan (Jan 22, 2004 6:47:16 PM)
LUC PLEASE ANSWER ME can fires spread into different rooms?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:47:16 PM)
I think so. I did not check. I usually have the fire alarm, because the firefighter is cute.
zockedi (Jan 22, 2004 6:48:17 PM)
INTERESTING QUESTION ALERT! If you create identical twins and give them the same personalities, but give them totally different life experiences, will their personalities end up dramatically different?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:48:17 PM)
yes. they will have lifes and that will drive them to be different sims
SimsStash (Jan 22, 2004 6:48:46 PM)
Will servo be back?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:48:46 PM)
hmm. sorry about that. there was a lightning storm at Maxis last summer and servo did not make it.
l3aby_spaz (Jan 22, 2004 6:48:55 PM)
will teens be able to have their first kiss with a teen of the same gender?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:48:55 PM)
yes
PianoRockRckr (Jan 22, 2004 6:49:23 PM)
PLEASE ANSWER ME!! will the male sims have bachelor parties? complete with adult entertainers?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:49:23 PM)
I guess you are a custom content creator?
Eonly (Jan 22, 2004 6:49:49 PM)
I've seen pictures of police all women, will there be policeMEN?!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:49:49 PM)
Maybe.
UrkoSIMy (Jan 22, 2004 6:50:14 PM)
if i fight and win will the girls love me more than the looser
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:50:14 PM)
except for the one who don't like bullies.
UrkoSIMy (Jan 22, 2004 6:50:40 PM)
will there be french kiss Luc
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:50:41 PM)
most kisses are french.
twistedhero (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:03 PM)
Hi luc, Can same sex couples mix their DNA in sims 2?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:03 PM)
nope. we have not figured out that one yet
caramelcutie411 (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:13 PM)
If two teenage sims are in love, and one of them ages to an adult - will the teenage one still be in love with the adult?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:13 PM)
not for long
SimsStash (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:34 PM)
Is it ture you said Maxis is working on SimCity 5?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:34 PM)
that one got me into real trouble.
zockedi (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:49 PM)
What if a teen never GETS kissed? Will they still grow up?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:51:49 PM)
yes. like in real life (sight)
TigerGal210 (Jan 22, 2004 6:52:13 PM)
What are some of the new kisses?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:52:13 PM)
family kiss
XuKano (Jan 22, 2004 6:52:42 PM)
Can an elderly sim marry an adult Sim?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:52:42 PM)
yes
GameMasterEvert_B (Jan 22, 2004 6:52:56 PM)
There was said to be a mode where u can catch moments as if on a video camera. Can you shoot these movies in camera mode like you can with album pictures?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:52:56 PM)
yes.
l3aby_spaz (Jan 22, 2004 6:53:22 PM)
Hey Luc! Will sims only be able to "play" on the bed? Cuz it would be really kinky if they could "play" on the kitchen counter or in the shower 
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:53:22 PM)
I believe the hot tub is a cool place too.
Super_Blonde (Jan 22, 2004 6:53:46 PM)
I know that adult sims and teenage sims cannot have romantic relationships, but can a teen have a crush on an adult sim?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:53:46 PM)
crush yes. more no.
simmy2sky (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:00 PM)
Luc, how PROUD ARE YOU OF THE GAME? Is it turning out to your liking?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:00 PM)
I am soooo proud!
Chicky29 (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:09 PM)
MY TURN PLEASE!!! Will time be saved at home while our Sims visit other places?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:09 PM)
yes
Tentothaage (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:33 PM)
PLEASE ANSWER ME Will their be gothic teens, punk rock teens, and all the other styles of teens you see in real life?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:33 PM)
yes. we have provided enough clothing for that, and enough personality variations.
charmedgurl (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:49 PM)
can two sims go in the shower at once, if their in love?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:54:49 PM)
I keep asking for that feature myself
simsmaster88 (Jan 22, 2004 6:55:17 PM)
Will certain events automatically be recorded on video? Like how pictures were taken automatically when a sim got married...
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:55:17 PM)
we are leaving it ot user control.
Dabuzz (Jan 22, 2004 6:55:32 PM)
*sigh*... once again.. can the aging process be turned on and off during the game?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:55:32 PM)
yes at the house level, I already answered that.
JLD1217 (Jan 22, 2004 6:55:46 PM)
will personalities be more in depth than in the sims 1?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:55:46 PM)
ABSOLUTELY
robinu (Jan 22, 2004 6:56:30 PM)
Can I pull you into the shower with me Luc?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:56:30 PM)
Maybe in Sims 3
La001 (Jan 22, 2004 6:56:48 PM)
will pregnant women have to buy maternity clothes or will their clothes just stretch?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:56:48 PM)
They get pregancy clothes automatically
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 6:57:50 PM)
Luc is going to chat for an extra ten minutes since we had some technically difficulties
Eonly (Jan 22, 2004 6:57:51 PM)
When you have more than one family living together, will they know what room is there's and where to sleep, eat and make food in their own kitchen, and how does the last name thing work, can you type more than one last name, I always had to use the apartement dwellers.
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:57:51 PM)
Sims have ownership to objects.
angel_101 (Jan 22, 2004 6:58:12 PM)
are the pregnacy clothes stylish?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:58:12 PM)
as much as in real life...
melle (Jan 22, 2004 6:58:45 PM)
can toddlers leave the house if they're not being watched?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:58:45 PM)
no
simlova (Jan 22, 2004 6:58:51 PM)
Can two sims messing with the same dude get pregnant at the same TIME?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:58:52 PM)
yes
SkegeeAce (Jan 22, 2004 6:59:16 PM)
LUCCCCC PRETTY PRETTY PLEASE?! When sims divorce do they split their stuff and fight over kids?!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:59:16 PM)
only one leaves
Obie (Jan 22, 2004 6:59:48 PM)
PLEASE ANSWER! can you make apartment buildings and stuff like that?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 6:59:48 PM)
the neighborhoods are more suburbia than downtown
DestinyPacific (Jan 22, 2004 7:00:07 PM)
Are there 3somes???
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:00:07 PM)
What are you talking about?
simfreak (Jan 22, 2004 7:00:16 PM)
can you build balconies
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:00:16 PM)
yes
simsmaster88 (Jan 22, 2004 7:01:15 PM)
Will Sims have their own last names? Like if Will Wright moves in with Luc Barthelet, will Mr. Wright be known now as Will Barthelet, or will he still be known as Will Wright?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:01:15 PM)
I forgot the asnwer to that, but I know the Sims have last names now.
Seji (Jan 22, 2004 7:01:36 PM)
Please! Is Free Will still an option you can turn on and off?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:01:36 PM)
yes
TS2_lover (Jan 22, 2004 7:01:47 PM)
PLEASE LUC???please answer.:-(will sims have fovourite tv shows?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:01:47 PM)
They do. per channel.
kittygirl (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:03 PM)
Will there be covered porches, decks, etc?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:03 PM)
we have plenty of decks.
Ezrianna (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:23 PM)
If both parents die what will happen to the kids?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:23 PM)
They will go to the social worker.
Coryashire (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:39 PM)
PLEASE CONSIDER: how do you add ponds like in the nighborhood flythru?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:39 PM)
you can add them in community lots
teddy321 (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:50 PM)
PLEASE LUC ANSWER ME, THANKS FOR STAYING THE EXTRA TEN MINUTES! When the sims have sleepovers, do they bring sleeping bags, if not where do they sleep?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:02:50 PM)
they can use the regular beds.
SiM2FrEaK (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:05 PM)
Could a guy have 5+ girls pregnant at the same time?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:05 PM)
yes. nice goals in life you have.
slipknot9877332 (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:16 PM)
How many channels are on the TV?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:16 PM)
4-5
Willnem (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:31 PM)
can you use the telescope to spy on neighbors?i heard you could unofficially
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:31 PM)
yes. but don't tell/
missim (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:40 PM)
Bonjour luc! J'aime les sims ! Je crois que je aimerais les sims deux aussi!!!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:40 PM)
merci
jsz (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:56 PM)
will a sim be able to watch tv, eat popcorn, and talk on the phone at the same time?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:03:56 PM)
not really. maybe in Sims 3
Nicky (Jan 22, 2004 7:04:08 PM)
Can the social worker still magically escape if you wall her up?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:04:08 PM)
yes
zockedi (Jan 22, 2004 7:04:34 PM)
HOW MUCH do sims GOSSIP? How much does this alter the course of events?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:04:34 PM)
yes they gossip a lot. and it does impact the game. they talk about things they have seen.
Pansina (Jan 22, 2004 7:05:03 PM)
have you started planning sims 3?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:05:03 PM)
we will start one minute after we launch Sims 32
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:05:11 PM)
oops I meant Sims 2
495969 (Jan 22, 2004 7:05:27 PM)
Are there new things for the pool?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:05:27 PM)
Underwater camera?
Simlover85 (Jan 22, 2004 7:05:51 PM)
PLEASE LUC!!!!!!!!! Will there be a misery clown?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:05:51 PM)
no. been there, done that
John (Jan 22, 2004 7:06:13 PM)
In one of the videos a guy works out for only a short time and becomes in shape, is it like that in the game?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:06:13 PM)
yes, but it takes more time.
2simornot2sim (Jan 22, 2004 7:07:05 PM)
can you swim nude?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:07:05 PM)
I do all the time.
Willnem (Jan 22, 2004 7:07:28 PM)
Can sims paint personal experiences with the easel?..i noticed a painting in a dinning room,of the same dinning room in one of the screen shots
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:07:28 PM)
yes the easel has more options for the very creative sims.
Puu (Jan 22, 2004 7:07:45 PM)
When's your birthday, Luc? 
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:07:45 PM)
Week after next
mooberry (Jan 22, 2004 7:08:25 PM)
Please!!!! *sobs everywhere* can sims kill each other?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:08:25 PM)
not directly, but I bet someone will find a way.
tberg75 (Jan 22, 2004 7:08:48 PM)
are the sims still silly and go around applauding the new lights? anything big new and exciting about build mode that you like luc?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:08:48 PM)
The pools are REALLY cool.
Chicky29 (Jan 22, 2004 7:09:01 PM)
Guess this is my last chance!! Will time be saved at home,as it does in The Sims while our Sims visit other places in Sims2?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:09:01 PM)
YES
Simlover85 (Jan 22, 2004 7:09:10 PM)
LAST QUESTION PLEASE!!! Will there be rodents and bugs?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:09:10 PM)
YES
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:09:26 PM)
5 more minutes
DML2 (Jan 22, 2004 7:09:48 PM)
what if we take a picture of somebody's who is naked but is censored? in the painting/portrait, will it be censored or not? yes or no
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:09:48 PM)
who said you can do that?
Karynn (Jan 22, 2004 7:10:06 PM)
Can you have an in-game sim customizing thing, like the vanity table on the console? By the way, Happy almost Birthday!!
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:10:06 PM)
YES
simmy doodle (Jan 22, 2004 7:10:25 PM)
Can little kids pee in the pool
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:10:25 PM)
nobody does that!
simsmaster88 (Jan 22, 2004 7:11:07 PM)
Are sims more superficial in judgment? I mean, Betty Newbie could do much better than Bob...Why doesn't she get with a more attractive sim, like Marty or Bernie?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:11:07 PM)
Sims are way smarter, but even smart sims make poor dating decisions.
Jerabi (Jan 22, 2004 7:11:44 PM)
Does the sims still pee blue?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:11:45 PM)
Yes. It looks better in the pool
Calisa (Jan 22, 2004 7:12:35 PM)
Tell us something about the Sims 2 that no one will expect. Just one little secret. Come oooon.
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:12:35 PM)
you can bring the camera as low as 10 inches from the floor.
sheardtso (Jan 22, 2004 7:12:56 PM)
Last time..... How will the sims be paid Daily or Weely
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:12:56 PM)
Daily
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:13:05 PM)
last question
chaseabryant (Jan 22, 2004 7:14:59 PM)
What is that kid growing in the screenshot?
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:14:59 PM)
Little palm trees...
MaxisLuc (Jan 22, 2004 7:15:11 PM)
Goodbye everyone. See you next time.
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 7:15:15 PM)
Ok everyone that wraps up our time for today. Now Luc has to get back to making the game! Thank you all for coming!
MaxisDano (Jan 22, 2004 7:15:20 PM)
Bye all!
MaxisLucky (Jan 22, 2004 7:15:35 PM)
Thanks everyone! Bye!!!
MaxisKitty (Jan 22, 2004 7:15:46 PM)
Until Next Time....and see you on the boards
How many floors can a house have? Will separate families be able to live together? Find out the answers to these important questions and more on the updated FAQ page!
Two new official screenshots taken from The Sims 2 Scoop newsletter!
General Manager Luc Barthelet will be in Chat this Thursday. Hit those French books and meet us online this Thursday at 3pm PST! (Chat will be held in English)
Hello Everyone!
We receive lots of inquiries from the community about the game via email and the message boards. We'd like to share answers to some of the most popular questions that we have received with you.
- How many floors can a house have?
In The Sims 2, buildings will have three stories. In addition, there will be the ability to build a rooftop floor.- Will separate families be able to live together?
Yes, you'll be able to create households of Sims living together that are not genetically related to one another. Create anything from a sorority house to a commune or a retirement home to a bachelor pad! You can also create a huge extended family household all under one roof, including grandparents, parents, kids, and various relatives such as aunts, uncles and cousins.- Will kids and teenagers be able to have sleepovers?
Yes, you can invite Sims to stay over for a slumber party, complete with junk food and ghost stories.- Will we be able to do more interactions with babies besides sing, feed, and play? If so, what are some of them?
There will be a lot of special social interactions for babies beyond singing, feeding and playing with them. Your Sims will be able to teach their babies to walk and talk. Adult Sims can toss the babies up in the air and catch them safely. Plus, the babies will need to be changed, bathed and put to sleep. Sometimes, a baby will surprise everyone and toddle over to play in the toilet on their very own.- How will the careers be different in The Sims 2?
We've made several changes to the career game. First, as your Sims progress though their career tracks, they will have access to different clothes to show off their career levels. In addition, if they make it to the top, not only will they have "styling new threads," but they'll also unlock a special career object. Your Sims will also now have weekends with some time off from work to spend a little more time at home with their family and friends. Finally, teenage and elder Sims will have different career choices from adult Sims.- Are there any new types of deaths?
Yes, in The Sims 2 your Sims will now die of old age.- How much detail will there be for big life events?
In The Sims 2, big life moments will have a lot more texture and detail compared to the original Sims. For example, when your Sim gets married or abducted by aliens there will be in-game cinematics and special effects that bring that event vividly to life and effectively emphasize the drama.- Will they able to do laundry?
We don't plan on letting Sims do their laundry in The Sims 2. Why is everyone so fixated with laundry?- If one Sim is involved with another Sim and then has and affair and gets pregnant by that other Sim, will the first Sim that they were seriously involved with know that it isn't their baby when it's born?
Yes, there is the possibility that Sims will have affairs and their indiscretions will be revealed.- How will move outs occur?
When Sims move out they will take all the objects they own with them. Those will then be available to them in their new dwelling.Please feel free to use the above FAQs to update the information on your site and/or your own FAQ sections.
I look forward to sharing more information with you again next week!
By the way, the last video was captured as the game was playing. We have made a lot of good progress with the in game video tools and cameras. I hope you enjoyed the last video, there will be plenty more.
Cheers,
Luc Barthelet
Movie director with The Sims 2
Get your screenshot fix with juggling bikini babes, newlyweds kissing on the alter, a BBQ romance and more fun with the obstacle course.
"The best part is that the camera is extremely flexible, giving you a possibility to set the tone of the in-game atmosphere to your preference."
Take a trip to ActionTrip.com.
Ure "Vader" Paul
What makes a game sell? We've asked ourselves that same question dozens of times and, for some deranged reason, the word "Sims" always comes up. The Sims games have always been a good example of art imitating life. Let's face it; almost any simulation out there has a reasonable chance of doing well on software sale charts. The Sims accurately mimics real life, which is the main selling point of the game. Experiencing The Sims can easily be described in a single sentence: an all-encompassing simulation of life presented through open-ended gameplay. The undeniable worldwide success of The Sims proves that gamers don't necessarily have to witness breathtaking feats of graphic superiority in order to be entertained. Will Wright, the creative mind behind this fantastically successful project, is finally getting close to finishing the long-awaited sequel, The Sims 2. Completely revamping the game's visuals and building upon the triumphant prequel, The Sims 2 promises to bring some kick-ass entertainment our way, without any actual kicking of any real asses (Sim or otherwise).
Will Wright and his crew at Maxis haven't spent the last few years dishing out The Sims expansion packs for nothing. Okay, so they may have found an ingenious way to earn extra cash (albeit not exactly original - Ed.), but the long-lasting history of the series and its numerous incarnations instigated a huge worldwide feedback from a massive community of fans, which, naturally, gave the developers a good idea of what the average gamer truly desires to experience.
The primary goal for the development team this time around was to take that much-desired big step towards modern-day 3D games. As such, The Sims received a rather thorough graphics overhaul. To begin with, the improved animation now presents sim characters in a more realistic light, using a complex skeletal system (to ensure lifelike movement) and thoroughly animated faces (to ensure genuine emotional expression). Even the hands on the models feature articulated fingers, which makes Sims move and act more convincing than ever before. For instance, if your Sims reaches for the buttocks of a member of the opposite gender, you'll certainly notice the difference between a grip and a relaxed hand (I wanna clutch someone's buttocks now! 2Lions, make it happen, please.) (No! I hate you! - 2Lions.) In-game models now possess highly detailed head skins with meticulously detailed facial and hair animation. This means that, unlike before, faces will literarily alter shape according to the mood of your Sims - their hair will sway in the wind, etc. Of course, the Sims' new-fangled 3D appearance was also beefed up with additional facets, such as reflection and bump-maps. This detailed model outline brought about some fundamental enhancements to the characters like visible teeth, different eye color, animated eyelids, and so on. Aside from these apparent external improvements, each model will also maintain a degree of uniqueness, to allow for factors such as character individuality and family resemblance. The general improvement in terms of visuals also put a tough task before the designing team to create as many distinctive objects in the backdrop as possible. Bathrooms, living rooms, basements, and other areas, must all be modified according to the person that uses them. And that's no easy job. Still, we must appreciate the fact that Maxis has quite a large team of expert hard-working artists, which certainly promises improvements in character modeling as well as overall design. Additionally, the landscapes are now overhauled with an impressive array of fully rendered 3D objects and details that perk up the ambiance; you know things such as rich wildlife (birds, trees, plants, and what not), busy streets with cars and buses whizzing by, rainbows stretching across the sky, and so forth.
The level of interaction in The Sims 2 is absolutely amazing. The developers tweaked the game to the last detail, even allowing you to control the camera through a full 3D environment. This way you can create your own stories and immerse yourself in an exciting cinematic experience. The best part is that the camera is extremely flexible, giving you a possibility to set the tone of the in-game atmosphere to your preference. Furthermore, the camera angle can be changed to view the game from first-person perspective. Sadly, you won't be able to control the movement and actions of your Sims within this particular mode, but you'll surely sense a personal connection to the characters whose lives are in your hands.
A character's personality won't be defined solely by appearances. Sims will maintain their own personas as they go through all the phases of life. In other words, a great deal depends on your character's mood. One of the most interesting innovations that are being incorporated into the sequel is the new approach taken in expressing the mood of your Sims, which understandably demonstrates precisely how they feel about their current situation in life. In previous games each character sort of lived for the moment, without any recollections or feelings of what went on in the past. This time around, Sims are given various memory patterns that relate to their earlier experiences. Looking back on previous events that took place throughout their lives can have a significant influence on character mood and behavior. Therefore, it's possible to tune the behavior of your Sims by avoiding any emotional or dramatic situations... a character with such experiences is likely to feel bad more often than not (Lord knows depression is debilitating enough to real people - just think how it will affect Sim life - Six). Naturally, there will be ways to help your Sims patch things up and make them forget traumas they underwent in the past. Usually, a simple pat on the back from a familiar face (such as a friend or family member) will be enough to straighten things out. Then again, life often deals us strange and unexpected ordeals, hence some events and characters you meet along the way can quickly trigger those negative emotions, and you're back to square one. (Do they have Sim antidepressants? - Six) Anyhow, due to such elements, players may need to consider their actions carefully by using more complex strategies during gameplay than they did in previous Sims titles.
The Sims 2 also gives new meaning to the term "unrestrained gameplay." Previous games allowed players to control their Sims through a relatively confined space consisting of about 10 lots or so. The new wide 3D landscape gives players the freedom to accommodate their Sims anywhere they wish (provided that the chosen lot is connected to a road). But, should your Sims feel discomforted and unhappy in their brand new location, an additional option was thrown in so you may relocate the house at any time. Changing neighborhoods is always a good way to steer towards the need of your Sims, particularly if they are far away from their relatives, friends, or... errr... casual acquaintances. Also, to make things a bit easier, the developers added a "connections" button to let players now where they can find the nearest friend or relative. Basically, we've come to understand that things are more in-depth and a lot more intuitive than in any other Sims game.
The Sims 2 has an amazing potential to generate one of the largest communities in the biz. A significantly upgraded build-mode tool set allows gamers to improvise and create neighborhoods and households of their dreams and then share them with other players online. The game is going to feature a huge variety of downloadable content that will be available at the Maxis Exchange site -players are even going to be offered a chance to download this content during gameplay. Any houses you fetched on the Net can be stored into the new lot directory. Giving gamers the ability to design their own residences and lots was obviously an important aspect to Maxis. Sims 2 stretches this concept even further by letting players use SimCity 4 to customize landscapes and neighborhoods and then swap them on the Maxis Exchange site.
Judging from the recently released media, The Sims 2 also tends to expand on the variety of adult content adding a more mature feel to the whole experience. The perfect example for that is one of the exclusive screenshots provided with this preview, showcasing a really raunchy bathtub scene. Now, just imagine the possibilities here. Let's hope you're all handy with that in-game camera thingy, cause it's all about focus, depth, and close-ups... wink, wink, nudge, nudge. As mentioned before, this game will take first steps towards merging Sims community with SimCity community, which is bound to open new doors for Maxis (well, if you ask me, the perfect sim game would be a amalgamation of The Sims and SimCity... and, well, perhaps with a little bit of GTA: Vice City as well). That said, you can be sure Maxis is on the right track as far as making a worthy sequel to one of the industry's top products. We expect the game to arrive in Spring 2004.
Hello everyone,
Happy 2004! We hope that your holiday season was enjoyable and that you're set for another exciting new year. The team has been hard at work adding new features to the game, which you might have already started to read about in the most recent Designer Diary. But of course we saved the best info for our community members:
- Cameraman mode: The new camera in The Sims 2 is huge. The freedom to rotate, zoom, and scroll your camera as you play the game really lets you dive right into the Sims' 3-D world. With the new cameraman mode, you can take it a step further and get even more intimate with your Sims. Move around the environment as if you were a Sim, and get in the thick of the action at the most detailed level. In cameraman mode, you have complete freedom to set up the scene according to your imagination.
- Movie Recorder: We know that telling stories with The Sims has always been a fun and creative aspect for players. With the movie recorder, you can now capture footage straight from the game. By pressing "v" as you play, the game will begin creating avi's of your Sims in action. A complete video control panel is provided that allows you to optimize the settings for the movie recorder, ensuring that your machine is providing the best footage for your stories.
Here is a movie of these new features in action. With new cameras and the recorder to capture all of the action, you are now the director of your own movie. The stories you can create will be more dramatic, more cinematic, and we're willing to bet more creative and entertaining than anything we've ever seen.
Stay tuned for more info from the team next week!
Luc Barthelet
Movie Director, Maxis
"Playing The Sims 2 in camera mode is a revelation. You feel like you are there." - Lucy Bradshaw, VP of PC development.
The Sims 2 Designer Diary #6
The designers of The Sims 2 explain how the sequel will let you get a bird's-eye view of your little computer people's lives.
Maxis' unusual strategy game The Sims is reportedly the best-selling computer game of all time, but the team has since stopped making expansion packs and has moved on to develop the sequel. Like the original game, The Sims 2 will let you create a family of computerized people, or "sims," and take control of their lives, their career paths, and their social interactions with other sims. But The Sims 2 will attempt to improve on the original game with a number of intriguing new features, including sims that retain memories and actually grow and change over time. The original game lent itself to many different and unusual situations--some completely absurd, others eerily realistic. The sequel will attempt to give you an even better way to use the game to experience these situations.
The Sims Exposed
By Lucy Bradshaw
VP PC development
Perhaps one of the most surprising things about The Sims is that, besides being a fantastic strategy simulator, it has become one of the most powerful storytelling tools ever created. Even we were taken by how fast people gravitated to this aspect of the game. In retrospect, I guess we should have figured it out. The game had all the classic elements you would need to tell compelling stories: actors, sets, props, and the ability to add your own written thoughts and dialogue to put context to the images you would capture in the game. When we set about designing The Sims 2, we knew that all these elements, and more, had to be available to players so they could bring their stories into the present and future.
Part of compelling storytelling is the ability to immediately take the audience into the action. In the original game, you could do quite a lot to support the stories you created, but you were never completely free from the limitations of the game's camera angles. In The Sims 2, the camera is enormously flexible and cinematic, so you can smoothly rotate and navigate around the scene. You can change the camera angle and zoom in to view sims at eye level. This allows for a great balance between the playability that is crucial in setting the stage and the immersive views necessary for the story to resonate.
Once we initially experienced it for ourselves, we felt we needed to take one more step for those players who really make storytelling the center of their play experience. It was for those players that we decided to completely blow away the old limits and introduced a new way of viewing the game: camera mode. In the camera mode, you can now travel all over the game environment as if you were a sim: run up and down stairs, get behind or under objects, and even get right up into the faces and see the expressions and emotions of the sims who are the stars of your stories.
Playing The Sims 2 in camera mode is a revelation. You feel like you are there. It reveals how much work has been done on the little things in the game, like facial expressions, gestures, and textures on objects. Camera mode is all about freedom. Combined with the pause button, it's an immensely powerful tool for creating stories that, for the first time, have a true cinematic and dynamic quality. Lighting, angles, and even the focal length of the camera can all be manipulated to support exactly the right image and to create exactly the right scene that you envision. Instead of observing the game from a somewhat removed perspective, you can now place your viewers directly in the heat of the action. Genres of storytelling within the game that weren't authentic before are available now to the player: horror, suspense, voyeurism, sitcom, and many others we might not have thought of. Hide behind a potted plant to shoot a tender love scene. Position yourself right under the sim as he or she flubs a dive and belly-flops into the pool. Shoot your sim's reaction to being dumped from over the shoulder of the sim that is dumping your sim. There's actually more freedom in setting up the right shot in The Sims 2 than there is in the real world!
A part of telling stories that has never been possible before in The Sims is a true first-person perspective. Despite all the freedom in camera mode, there's nothing that can replace the air and impression an image has when it is shot through the eyes of a living sim. I must point out that while in this mode, the camera is not under player control, and traditional object selection is locked out. As a trade-off, the images that result come alive with the personal energy of the sims themselves. You can see exactly what your sims see, go where they go, and do what they do. The pictures that come from this mode are sometimes unpredictable, but they have a palpable excitement and a candid quality that make them a rich and vibrant element to the mix of the stories that are being told in the game.
One thing we did know from experience was that great images alone aren't enough to make great stories. Our players needed better tools to capture these pictures and also better tools to manage the pictures, once they were taken. In The Sims 2, we've introduced something called storytelling mode. It has all of the functionality of the family album from the original game but with much more robust story management and display abilities. In storytelling mode, you'll be able to add whatever text you desire to the images you capture and more easily edit these images to fine-tune the tale you want to tell. Using the snapshot bin, you'll be able to browse through whole collections of images and select the one you want to place into your story. You'll even be able to see snapshots that were taken in other houses in the neighborhood so you can create complex stories with numerous locations and plotlines. As in the original game, images that have been retouched in paint programs can be mixed into these stories with ease, so the only limits on the visuals are the ones you set yourself.
Once stories have been created using storytelling mode, The Sims 2 will make it much easier to share it with the world at large. You'll be able to upload and update your stories on TheSims2.com effortlessly and from right within the game. In addition, you can now choose between a traditional filmstrip-style storyline or the ever-popular "blog" style of display, where readers can see multiple entries at once alongside the text that brings those stories to life.
Creating and sharing stories in The Sims 2 is ultimately a more powerful and compelling experience than ever before. What makes us most excited is to think how much more fantastic it will be once the community of our players finally get their hands on the game and its new capabilities. There are extraordinary stories out there that no one but the storytellers can possible imagine. All we have to do is make these tools available, and we know that crazy, outrageous, dramatic, hilarious, and moving stories will start being created and shared.