Hey All,
I've been getting notes and questions from many of you, about what we're up to now that The Sims 2 has gone gold...well, other than painting the walls red (quite literally, you'll see...), we've been cheering on our Maxoid compatriots who are putting the finishing touches on a really new take on Sims! When we initially asked this team to think about what city life would be like for The Sims, they came up with something so fresh and cool that we decided the Sims needed a whole new name...and hence, we introduce to you, The Urbz. Now, who better to tell you all about The Urbz but the producer himself, Scot Amos. Take it away Scot...
-----------------------------
You know The Sims. You know The Sims2, and now The Urbz is joining the family. First off... it's a total privilege to be appearing in this space and shouting out to so many people who know the score on The Sims and The Sims 2. The Urbz are all Sims at heart, but the key difference is they live in urban environs instead of suburban houses and you can find them on console and handheld game systems. The Urbz have apartments and penthouses, and street smarts by the handful. So expect high fashion and gritty, urban sophistication, as well as a hustling, bustling 24/7 city that stands in marked contrast to the type of community you get in the 'burbs; but it's all good; we're all still Sims on the inside. La Familia!
The Urbz is all about that age-old fantasy of making it big on your own in the city, and scurrying up the social jungle-gym to become known throughout the land. Midnight VIP parties kickoff everywhere ... but to get in, you gotta know the right social moves and have reputation. The Urbz is all about who you know and how well you know 'em, and to be clear, when you first hit the city, you don't know Jack.
Jobs are another important and hands-on part of city life... and we have the hippest ones around. From busting up bikes in the Chop Shop to the high-end societies Fashion Photographer... we cater to every taste and every style; and even let you make your own! And these jobs are all hands-on micro-games, with some totally frenetic gameplay. You take the job and are thrust in to a frenzied burst of button-mashing madness in order to make the most cash in the shortest time so you can buy stuff to deck-out your apartments and totally customize your Urbz's look and style.
With the Urbz... it helps to blend in at first so you can stand out later. Instead of creating-a-sim, you're Styling-an-Urb. Once your reputation gets high enough, you can influence everyone in the 9 districts of the City. You'll have the power to make punks and bikers wear pink taffeta or Hawaiian shirts if you choose!! Now, that's power! It's an AWESOME experience to see all of these characters living their daily lives, suddenly overpowered by your will and wearing t-shirts with YOUR Urbz’s face on it! Nothing says reputation like that kind of influence.
We've got a killer website for you to learn more about game play mechanics and meet some of the movers & shakers in the city. It has a ton of screenshots, movies, and some other really great features for you to keep yourself schooled on the latest happenings in the city:
Just to show how far this Urban lifestyle has pushed us all here at Maxis, check out The Sims2's own Lucy Bradshaw tagging up the office!
We've also assembled some fantastic screenshots of The Urbz that can't be found anywhere else on the Web! Who loves ya!
(I do!)
-Scot
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Thanks, Scot – the game's really shaping up to be something special. And speaking of special, did you know that the Urbz website has an infinitely large wall of bricks for you to tag up with messages to send to all your friends. Since we're all friends here, I thought I'd send you guys all a little graffiti tag of my own, to let you all know what I *really* think about you!
http://urbzsims.ea.com/index_flash.php?_key=TVNHX0lEPTg4Njk=&intro=skip
Lata, Playaz,
Lucy Bradshaw
The Sims 2 Executive Producer & Buster of Dope RhymesM/blockquote>
News
GameSpot.com has posted a bunch of bloopers from The Sims 2 in the latest installment of The Sims 2 Designer Diary. A video with Lucy Bradshaw is also available.
The official Japanese website has a Sims 2 screensaver available! It shows several artworks, all ages and some more. It's also a clock!
Thanks to everyone that showed up! For those of you who missed it, the transcripts have been posted in the Chat area.
MaxisKane (Sep 2, 2004 6:04:22 PM)
Hello and Welcome to The Sims 2 chat! We have Maxis Executive Producer Lucy Bradshaw and Sims Creative Director Charles London here with us here today to talk about The Sims 2.
MaxisKane (Sep 2, 2004 6:07:53 PM)
Hi folks, we're just getting started here. Keep the questions coming
Luthorius (Sep 2, 2004 6:08:27 PM)
Will the load time for the game be faster than that of TS1?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:08:28 PM)
Yes the load times are faster...it kind of depends on how big the house is an dhow many objects but they are faster
cecee (Sep 2, 2004 6:08:49 PM)
Will the sims age even without have a birthday party?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:08:49 PM)
Yes they do. You can turn aging off with a cheat though
MaxisDano (Sep 2, 2004 6:09:27 PM)
Hey all, Charles is having some issues..
KAPAYA (Sep 2, 2004 6:09:28 PM)
can sims actually tan?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:09:28 PM)
No they don't tan but there are several different skin tones and you can make custom skin tones
MaxisKane (Sep 2, 2004 6:09:37 PM)
We're having technical difficulties. Charles and Lucy will be on in a second.
parrot (Sep 2, 2004 6:09:54 PM)
was it fun building the sims2?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:09:54 PM)
It was a blast building the Sims2
nicky (Sep 2, 2004 6:10:24 PM)
wiil you be able to place objects sideways?please anwser
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:10:24 PM)
You can place them and rotate them but no, you can't place them on diagonals.
Keymasterkel69 (Sep 2, 2004 6:10:53 PM)
Is there a limit on how many times one sim can use the Elixir of life?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:10:53 PM)
No, there is no limit other than time itself and you can only use it when you are in Platinum
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:11:34 PM)
How do you know if kid sims have homework?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:11:34 PM)
They bring their homework home with them and it will be in the house. You can click on it and it will show you when you finish it.
MaxisShorty (Sep 2, 2004 6:12:09 PM)
All questions are moderated, so if you don't see your questions, that doesn't mean that we don't see it as well
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:12:20 PM)
Hello, Lucy. I was wondering, I know that aspirations are everyone's favorite part of the sims 2, but what are your favorite wants and fears?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:12:20 PM)
I love the one when you want to see someone dead if they are enemies and I love the want a grandchild.
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:12:52 PM)
MaxisCharles is trying to get back into the chat room - he'll be back soon.
LisVender (Sep 2, 2004 6:13:17 PM)
Hello Ms. Bradshaw! Can you describe some of the new 3D camera controls and how they work?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:13:17 PM)
The cameras are so cool
LisVender (Sep 2, 2004 6:13:57 PM)
Hello Ms. Bradshaw! Can you describe some of the new 3D camera controls and how they work?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:13:58 PM)
sorry, hit return to quick. you can set cameras in the house using shift and num bers 4 -9 and you can use tab to be put in simcam
Fishun4 (Sep 2, 2004 6:14:31 PM)
What are some cute interactions between parents and toddlers?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:14:31 PM)
Teaching them to walk, to use the potty seat, to talk...they are really cute, also they toss them in the air and sometimes, if they just ate, this can end upin a mess
karen198916 (Sep 2, 2004 6:15:00 PM)
Will there be laundy in the sims2?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:15:00 PM)
well, you can change into different outfits but in the world of the sims, all clothes stay ever clean:)
FlaviusJulius (Sep 2, 2004 6:15:43 PM)
So how are you feeling today Lucy? Exciting about potential future Sims fan story creations created with The Sims 2?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:15:43 PM)
I feel great, thanks for asking! I've been using the Movie Making feature and having a blast with it and I can't wait to see what players do with both this and the albums and blogs
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:16:19 PM)
i have a question lucy. i know that you can upload neighboorhoods and towns that you make in the simscity 4 into the game, but can you make neighboorhoods and towns just using the game???
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:16:19 PM)
We shippped the game with a bunch of neighborhood forms ready to use, or you can hook up with some SC4 players and get them to make you forms. It is pretty cool
Erin9112001 (Sep 2, 2004 6:16:48 PM)
Hey Maxis Lucy! Will chubby sims have chubby children or will they be born fit?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:16:49 PM)
we gave the kids the benefit of the doubt and they don't get fat unless they eat poorly
electribird (Sep 2, 2004 6:17:38 PM)
Hi, I'm a big fan of yours! Do you think the sims will be able to have wings and capes in the next EP and if so, will they be able to fly or at least levitate if you wish?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:17:38 PM)
We've got some pretty cool work oufits for some of the carreer tracks, I expect we'll see custom content creators expanding on those once the game is out, so I bet you'll see capes etc.
karen198916 (Sep 2, 2004 6:17:47 PM)
How dose it feel to be part of a fabulas game that went GOLD?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:17:48 PM)
Utterly AWESOME!
Sims2 (Sep 2, 2004 6:18:20 PM)
If sims are afraid of dieing will they die faster?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:18:20 PM)
Nope, but it is something that you might see in their fear panel. Or they may also fear a loved one dying.
Chinoash (Sep 2, 2004 6:18:48 PM)
What other types of foods besides the ones shown in screenshots are there to eat?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:18:48 PM)
A bunch. Lobster Thermador, Baked Alaska, Mac & Cheese
ali3321 (Sep 2, 2004 6:19:29 PM)
Wats the most common diese people die of?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:19:29 PM)
Well, the flu mainly or or eating bad food
ConradSims2 (Sep 2, 2004 6:20:01 PM)
Hey there Lucy! Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. Its MIDNIGHT in South Africa and I need this question answered please! Can Fire spread through rooms? Burn Walls? The Roof?
MaxisCharles (Sep 2, 2004 6:20:01 PM)
Hey, this is Charles. Fire spreads very easily through the house, but the walls and the roof themselves don't burn. We've got good sheetrock contractors...
Dollie (Sep 2, 2004 6:20:31 PM)
Will there be a soundtrack released with the game? I've become obsessed with Eeyooma mana moki vop (what does that mean anyhow?)
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:20:32 PM)
We are thinking about it.
FlaviusJulius (Sep 2, 2004 6:21:48 PM)
Can aliens implant their Sim-alien hybrids into women as well as men?
MaxisCharles (Sep 2, 2004 6:21:48 PM)
Due to the particulars of how the aliens use the Y chromosomes to piggyback certain traits, only Sim men are vulnerable to their schemes....
Sim Guy (Sep 2, 2004 6:21:53 PM)
Will you still need friends to improve your careers?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:21:54 PM)
Yup, they always help but there are many ways to succeed in the careers, what with career reward objects
Sunbonnet (Sep 2, 2004 6:22:20 PM)
Can you adopt a child and then find out your Sim is pregnant?
MaxisCharles (Sep 2, 2004 6:22:20 PM)
Sure, just like in real life.
JuniperSun (Sep 2, 2004 6:22:28 PM)
What is is like to work at Maxis?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:22:29 PM)
Fun, lot's of smart people here and that makes things exciting. very creative job which also helps
Sim-Freak (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:10 PM)
will there be a ts2 dvd edition in the UK?! IF so: Will the DVD version be released in the UK at the same time as the CD version? If not, will we be getting the DVD version at all? If we are, when? In not ... why not?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:10 PM)
Yes, there will be eventually, but not right at the September ship date, sorry.
poisonedkandy (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:11 PM)
Does your sim need a certian aspiration to have a fear of being cheated on? Or is it just a random fear that is generated when they are going steady or married to somebody?
MaxisCharles (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:11 PM)
The Family Sims are really the ones who have these fears. Making sure their home life is stable is a big deal for them.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:24 PM)
If you have a baby and you turn the age thing off will the baby stay a baby or will it grow into a toddler ?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:24 PM)
The baby will stay a baby
tfm (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:46 PM)
could you please tell us more about importing sim city 4 terrain in to the sims2...for example what will go with the terrain?trees? roads?avenues? ect
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:23:47 PM)
terrain, roads only, bridges, hills
pontopt (Sep 2, 2004 6:24:15 PM)
Why the DVD version of The Sims 2 isn't coming to Europe?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:24:15 PM)
It will be, just will be a bit later. Very sorry.
nkb (Sep 2, 2004 6:24:30 PM)
Lucy im glad you were let out
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:24:30 PM)
me too!
Sim Guy (Sep 2, 2004 6:24:31 PM)
Can stairs have curve in them?
MaxisCharles (Sep 2, 2004 6:24:32 PM)
Not yet, but we're always planning new stair designs. Stay tuned.
poisonedkandy (Sep 2, 2004 6:25:12 PM)
Does your sim need a certian aspiration to have a fear of being cheated on? Or is it just a random fear that is generated when they are going steady or married to somebody?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:25:12 PM)
This one happens mostly due to aspiration but also due to relationship, events in their lives and their age
SimsFreak1446 (Sep 2, 2004 6:25:50 PM)
will it be easier to create custom clothes in TS2 versus body shop?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:25:51 PM)
There are a bunch more assets to create content from, so in this way, yes, it will be easier.
Elphaba (Sep 2, 2004 6:26:34 PM)
can we make different neighborhoods aside from the three that ship with the game if we don't have sim city 4? like if we dont want to customize terrain, we just want to make a new neighborhood?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:26:34 PM)
Yes, because we ship the game with a whole bunch of pre-made land forms that you can use if you want to make your own neighborhood. and then you can decorate your neighborhood too, withi things like boats, balloons etc.
NCrabs (Sep 2, 2004 6:26:58 PM)
Will you include new Body Types (Extra large, very skinny...etc) in future expansions?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:26:59 PM)
would like to, we are thinking of stuff along these lines.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:27:34 PM)
will there be toys and objects that the little kids (babies and todlers) can only use?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:27:34 PM)
Yes, there are, there is a toy chest that has some of them, there is a toy stove and a xylophone too, if they don't have any toys, well, let's just say they can get very resourceful.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:27:56 PM)
Any secrets that you haven't spilled that you wish to spill?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:27:56 PM)
Watch out if you have sloppy sims leaving lots of plates around outside that collect flies;)
Emella333 (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:09 PM)
Can you turn off the aging so that your kids stop growing up, so like you have a toddler and two teens and they stay that way for as long you want?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:09 PM)
Yup, there is a cheat that allows you to do that.
ali3321 (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:24 PM)
When you invite people over for a wedding/party can they ever rufuse to come or will they be guarenteed to come over to celebrate?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:25 PM)
There is a chance that some of them will not come over.
newbiw3 (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:43 PM)
if the sims retire and get their pension, is it a set amount or determined due to the job they did?
MaxisLucky (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:43 PM)
It's set by the job they got and their performance
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:53 PM)
when the baby is just born, does the mother have to work, or is there a babysitter?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:28:53 PM)
You can hire a Nanny for a short period or for a regular work shift.
_DaRockWiLdeR_ (Sep 2, 2004 6:29:40 PM)
In an interview on gamespot you say that it has always been fun working on the game - is there something extra funny that happened and you would like to share with fans?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:29:40 PM)
So many things....Just goofy stuff like I shared in the bloopers make any day funny. And, boy, do these things like to happen right when you have to do a demo for sr. execs!
simzfreak (Sep 2, 2004 6:29:50 PM)
how does the inheritance feature work?
MaxisLucky (Sep 2, 2004 6:29:50 PM)
When a Sim dies of old age, the Sims who have good relationships with them get some money. The better the relationship, and the higher the Aspiration Score of the Sim who passed away, the more money gets awarded.
Diela1 (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:06 PM)
What exactly caused the smoke to come out of the guys pants on the bloopers reel? LOL I just can't think of a reason for that
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:07 PM)
The effects system got the wrong position for the effect to play, and that happened to be the result on that day! Ooof:)
hollzbabie (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:28 PM)
hey when sims get divorced then remarried would the kids have step brothers and stepsisters, and ect.? will they know who there real parents from their step parents?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:28 PM)
They do retain their relationships and you do see them in teh family tree. It is pretty cool
JNCL250 (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:36 PM)
Are you able to play windows on a dianonal wall,?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:36 PM)
Yup!
nærd (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:49 PM)
can a family take all their stuff and move in to the grandparents so that they will inherit all their stuff when they die?
MaxisLucky (Sep 2, 2004 6:30:49 PM)
When a family moves out of a house, all the stuff they have is converted to money.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:31:06 PM)
Hi, Lucy, I want to know if you start out with $20, 000 like in the the first game or have you all increased the amount of money?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:31:06 PM)
You still start with 20K, but get some wants and use them to get a money tree and you'll be making more money quickly!
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:31:41 PM)
If a sim goes into labor do other sims run into the room immediately?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:31:41 PM)
Yes, if they are close enough to hear
boines (Sep 2, 2004 6:32:16 PM)
Will there be a MaxisTeam skin to download for SimDay? I want all of you 
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:32:17 PM)
Nope, but do check out the Custom Content Browser in the game right away, we do have stuff for you, not our skins but good things.
sims 2sf (Sep 2, 2004 6:32:47 PM)
Can some sims pee in the shower because i was reading something it saidthat the bladder level went down?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:32:47 PM)
Yup, sloppy Sims have been known to do that.
Elphaba (Sep 2, 2004 6:33:19 PM)
is there a gold aspiration level that comes before platinum?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:33:19 PM)
Yes, there is and at Gold you can begin to use the reward objects without potential of failure
ladymega22 (Sep 2, 2004 6:33:26 PM)
can toddlerss or kids become ghosts?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:33:27 PM)
Yup.
Tycoonster1234 (Sep 2, 2004 6:34:08 PM)
will the game work ok on minimum system specs, or will it be real slow? please answer!
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:34:08 PM)
We made sure it runs at a great framerate, you won't have all the bells and whistles of the graphics but it runs great and looks really good
simmerpaige (Sep 2, 2004 6:34:52 PM)
do you play the sims 2 every night?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:34:52 PM)
I've been having fun making movies. I ceratinly have played for the past ohhhhh, well......year:)
bucan (Sep 2, 2004 6:35:23 PM)
Will the version of body shop you have available for download on the site be shipped with the game? If not will we get a program where we can make custom content?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:35:23 PM)
The game ships with the body shop and the cool thing is now you can modify any of the content we ship with the game. Gives you many more possibliities.
OrangeJello607 (Sep 2, 2004 6:35:33 PM)
What is Platinum?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:35:33 PM)
The top Aspiration level.
relle (Sep 2, 2004 6:35:39 PM)
who is the little boy in the goth family
ProjectEva (Sep 2, 2004 6:37:01 PM)
Is there a way for two same sex sims to have a child that shares their DNA? (Not phisically of course =) but logistically in the game)
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:37:02 PM)
Yeah, you can but it is a bit of a round about way. Make a man and a woman in CAS, make a baby, then edit one of the adults and change their gender before you go to the hood, round about but possible.
something (Sep 2, 2004 6:37:11 PM)
Hey! Can you "ground" or "punish" your sim children?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:37:11 PM)
Yup.
snailbombing (Sep 2, 2004 6:37:29 PM)
Is it guaranteed that a male Sim will become pregnant during an abduction, or is it random?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:37:29 PM)
Pretty much happens if they abducted. Aliens like Sims.
LisVender (Sep 2, 2004 6:38:12 PM)
I like the concept of player awareness. What sorts of events inspire the Sims to sneak a look at the camera?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:38:12 PM)
This is mostly due to their personality...outgoing Sims seem to like to keep track of their player.
JadeInsane (Sep 2, 2004 6:38:24 PM)
Can you have two roof styles on one house and are there A framed style roofs?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:38:24 PM)
Yes. and no.
MaxisLucky (Sep 2, 2004 6:38:26 PM)
We are having some technical difficulties today - that's why it's slow.
ka2290 (Sep 2, 2004 6:38:43 PM)
can the kids get into other fights with the other kids like throwing fists
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:38:43 PM)
Kids can fight.
rjgdyofdk (Sep 2, 2004 6:39:26 PM)
WHAT IS EXACTLY YOUR JOB LUCY?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:39:26 PM)
I was hoping one of you could tell me:)
Lonelia (Sep 2, 2004 6:39:41 PM)
Who is MaxisCharles?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:39:42 PM)
He is a designer on the game
kellc15 (Sep 2, 2004 6:39:54 PM)
Will family members be able to affect other family member's want even though they 're not living in the same house. For example, if a mom wants to see her daughter get married, will that want be fullfilled?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:39:54 PM)
Yes, they can .
Emella333 (Sep 2, 2004 6:40:40 PM)
Lucy! What is your favorite part of the sims?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:40:40 PM)
Don't know, I like the Alien babies, I like playing families thru generations, I love building, I like the custom content you gusy are making and I like making movies.
nkb (Sep 2, 2004 6:40:59 PM)
what is the fear that shows a car with an x through it?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:40:59 PM)
Missing your car pool
adorkable (Sep 2, 2004 6:41:25 PM)
Will all first kisses belike the two people floating in the air like in one of the videos?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:41:25 PM)
That only happens for the first kiss....ergo first kiss:)
adorkable (Sep 2, 2004 6:41:50 PM)
Were you guys aware that the 17th is a jewish holiday and there will be no school? Were you planning to make us play all Friday and all weekend?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:41:50 PM)
Charles knew that!
**danielle** (Sep 2, 2004 6:42:11 PM)
Hey Lucy and other Maxis staff. Can kids make thier own cereal, pop tarts, soup, sandwhiches, or other small meals OTHER than just snacks? Thanks!!
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:42:11 PM)
Teens, Adults and Elders are the only ones who can cook
adorkable (Sep 2, 2004 6:42:35 PM)
How did you guyz make the feud between the Capps and Montys?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:42:35 PM)
We set up their relationships and gave them memories of one another....they really don't like one another!
Avandrie (Sep 2, 2004 6:43:07 PM)
Blooper Question: The guy with the feet through his chest, what in the world were they trying to do that they ended up THAT way?? What a riot to see these. :o)
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:43:07 PM)
Well, you know about routing right, this was a very bad path that the girl sim chose.
LisVender (Sep 2, 2004 6:43:51 PM)
I've read about the high level of realism in the game (real chess games, cordless phones with pageable handsets). Can you give another example of this sort of detail?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:43:51 PM)
The Chess they play are actual chess moves! The food in the fridge, the fish in the tank, the hands on the clocks move and tell the right time.
slayersimsbrian (Sep 2, 2004 6:44:31 PM)
In movie maker mode, can you function it like a real camera? I mean, zooming-in, paning-in, into a important scene or event like a real movie or television show to make it it seem like a movie or T.V. show?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:44:31 PM)
You get all the control of those cameras, so zoom and scroll and rotate, yes.
HawaiianGinger33 (Sep 2, 2004 6:45:04 PM)
We already know that memories can affect sims. So if I create an adult sim in CAS, will it have random memories or not at all?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:45:04 PM)
It will have basic memories, but not ones that take the player to have had happen.
Avandrie (Sep 2, 2004 6:45:33 PM)
As September 17th gets closer, will you guys be putting out more content and goodies more frequently? I always hop on the computer after I get home to see what's new.
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:45:33 PM)
Well, please do check out the in game browser on your first day, you'll see that we have been busy.
LeaveMeAlone (Sep 2, 2004 6:46:05 PM)
When babies throw up on their parents, how do the parents clean themselves up?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:46:06 PM)
They just wipe it off, but then eventually they do need to take a shower or they tend to stink
Emella333 (Sep 2, 2004 6:46:58 PM)
What did you all do when you heard the sims 2 went gold?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:46:59 PM)
Well, we have these cool nurflike finger darts...there were a lot of those going around, we tagged our schedule wall and I think there were enough WAHOOO emails to sink our mail server:)
chutch66 (Sep 2, 2004 6:47:49 PM)
Are you still planning on releasing tools to help fans create their own walls, floors and objects? If yes, then can you say now when we can expect to see the release of these types of tools and what can we expect first? Thanks so much for taking the time to talk with all of us.
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:47:49 PM)
Yes, we'll be moving on to that now that we have the game out....
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:48:04 PM)
what happened to Bella?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:48:04 PM)
That is a mystery.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:48:22 PM)
WOuld WIndows Media Maker be fine for creating movies in TS2?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:48:22 PM)
Yup, any off the shelf movie maker.
nemi (Sep 2, 2004 6:49:22 PM)
Lucy , which aspiration have you found most difficult to achieve success in thus far? And which do you find the most fun?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:49:22 PM)
A single sim starting alone and as a family sim is pretty tough. The ones I like the most are family and popularity. but then romance is pretty fun, they just get themselves into all sorts of trouble.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:50:06 PM)
SO LUCY!! They said skill points can be learned as young as at the toddler age. Are there special objects for toddlers to use to build skills?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:50:07 PM)
Yup, the toddler toys help them gain skills and then when they are children the adults teens and elders can teach them using the career reward objects and they will gain skills faster.
Sim Guy (Sep 2, 2004 6:50:40 PM)
Can Sims have horror channels and what channels do they have in The Sims 2?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:50:40 PM)
Yum Channel, Station Dance, News etc.
SimMajorFan#1 (Sep 2, 2004 6:50:59 PM)
Can other ages throw up,not just the baby stage?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:51:00 PM)
Yup, all sims can puke....it is equal opportunity:)
Avandrie (Sep 2, 2004 6:51:17 PM)
Are there still bills to pay? Can we pay them online? Or are they auto-deducted from our $$$
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:51:17 PM)
Yup there are still bills
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:52:04 PM)
Hey, everyone, Charles was having trouble with the Chat tool, but he's here next to me helping me answer questions
Bri5002 (Sep 2, 2004 6:52:42 PM)
Maxis Lucky What is your job at maxis?
MaxisLucky (Sep 2, 2004 6:52:42 PM)
I'm the manager of the websites.
Ender (Sep 2, 2004 6:52:47 PM)
Hey Lucy, have you ever gotten emotional over the death of a Sim that you've made and "raised" from birth?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:52:47 PM)
Yes! It is pretty dramatic. I did try to plead for their life and lost....it was so sad.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:53:35 PM)
will you be able to put special effects into your movies trough The Sims 2 or will we have to use a seperate program
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:53:35 PM)
Yes, you can even from the game, we left some effects like letterbox and vignette in there for you to use, and then you can add them using the editors
Sim Guy (Sep 2, 2004 6:54:04 PM)
Can Sims move in there beds while they are sleeping, instead of just sleeping straight in The Sims 1?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:54:04 PM)
Yes, and they even have nightmares and good dreams too.
nærd (Sep 2, 2004 6:54:12 PM)
Are there several different maids, firemen, policemen etc?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:54:13 PM)
Yup.
Sim Guy (Sep 2, 2004 6:54:34 PM)
Can Sims dye there hair?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:54:34 PM)
You can change their appearance at any time in the game using the mirrors.
inj88 (Sep 2, 2004 6:55:02 PM)
are you proud of what you've achieved in the sims 2?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:55:02 PM)
Yeah, I'm very, very proud of this team....I think the game is gorgeous and the play really, really feels so fun.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:55:13 PM)
Can your sims marry several sims, not just 1?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:55:13 PM)
Not at the same time.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:55:50 PM)
Good evening Lucy. 2 questions. 1) what happens during a nervous breakdown, and if youlose total control of your sim, what do you do for a 1 sim family? 2)What are the different behaviors of the different colored ghosts(P.S., guessing that a red ghost is a person who burned to death)?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:55:50 PM)
They are only out of it for a brief moment since we send in an imaginary Shrink to take care of things...and you are correct, very good!
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:56:24 PM)
---TY Maxis crew, we are very excited!---Question: can parts of skin tops or bottoms be changed? For example can different shoe styles be used for the same bottom?---
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:56:24 PM)
You can change just the shoes texture and have a couple copies of that bottom around.
illias4878 (Sep 2, 2004 6:56:53 PM)
[DIVORCE]can you give us more details on what happens to the kids after a divorce?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:56:53 PM)
They stick around iwth one of the parents, but their family tree continues to build with their birth parents identified.
chsdynmogurl (Sep 2, 2004 6:57:15 PM)
If you make a sim with one hair color and change it later with the mirror, is the first color still the one in the genes?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:57:15 PM)
Yes, it is.
Poog (Sep 2, 2004 6:57:37 PM)
did they feed you in there?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:57:37 PM)
yeah, they did, but mostly greasy icky stuff
KAPAYA (Sep 2, 2004 6:57:55 PM)
Can you refuse help from Shrink?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:57:56 PM)
Nope, they are pretty insistant
pianoman (Sep 2, 2004 6:58:16 PM)
can the sims order in any other food other then pizza and the catering guy?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:58:16 PM)
They can order groceries online.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 6:58:37 PM)
How does a teen sim sneak out????
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:58:37 PM)
They call their friends and can set it up in advance.
incufan (Sep 2, 2004 6:58:57 PM)
if a man is having an affair with the pizza girl does that mean every time he wants to see he he has to order a pizza
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:58:57 PM)
No, he can actually call her, without having to eat the pizza!
zeppythedragon (Sep 2, 2004 6:59:18 PM)
Do sims grieve when another sim dies or is it like TS1 where they only grieve when they see the urn?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:59:18 PM)
Yes, they do, they have other lasting effects for lots of events that happen in teh world.
pheobes044 (Sep 2, 2004 6:59:56 PM)
why was it decided to put fears into the sims2?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 6:59:56 PM)
Sims are just more emotional and this gave the player a way to experience that more impactfully.
SimsFreak1446 (Sep 2, 2004 7:00:35 PM)
How much money can you get from harvesting a money tree?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:00:35 PM)
The fun part is that you can lots of money trees. I've seen a household with a gajillon of these....well maybe not a gajillion
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 7:01:09 PM)
Will there be a feature/cheat to set one member of a family to a high autonomy level and then another member to a low autonomy level?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:01:10 PM)
No, but they take such better care of themselves anyways.
MaxisKane (Sep 2, 2004 7:01:27 PM)
The chat will end in a few minutes.
NappyNapperton (Sep 2, 2004 7:01:34 PM)
Is your job hard?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:01:34 PM)
Yes, it is really, really hard. I like it a lot.
*_*Shaqeel*_* (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:06 PM)
Maxis Charles - My mum is a house design freak what are some special design features she can look forward to?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:06 PM)
different roof types, outside elevated decks, in ground hot tubs, two story windows
Ringo_dog (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:25 PM)
Can Sims die of food poisoning? Like the person who prepared the meal has no cooking point.
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:25 PM)
Yup.
Guest (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:35 PM)
are we going to be able to change the colour of the objects right in the game?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:35 PM)
Yes, you can.
drgamez (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:44 PM)
what's up with sponge bathing?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:02:44 PM)
Isn't it kind of funny.
sims_chick (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:24 PM)
LUCY YOU SHOULD LOCK LUC UPI HE DESERVES IT!!
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:24 PM)
O.K.
mouse22580 (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:41 PM)
(CAS) can CAS custom content be used in the actual game
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:41 PM)
Yes, you can.
sims_chick (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:47 PM)
LOCK UP LUC,LOCK UP LUC.LOCK UP LUC
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:47 PM)
OK
pontopt (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:56 PM)
Why does MaxisKane, MaxisKitty, MaxisLucky and MaxisShorty have an avatar with the OLD logo of The Sims 2???
MaxisLucky (Sep 2, 2004 7:03:56 PM)
Just haven't gotten around to updating it yet. Thanks for the reminder!
Enjoji (Sep 2, 2004 7:04:03 PM)
Hey Lucy & Charles, can you please answer? Can Teens live on their own or must an Adult live with them??
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:04:03 PM)
Teens can head a household if the adults move out or die.
DngosAteYourBaby (Sep 2, 2004 7:04:46 PM)
WHAT IS THE PROPABILITY OF HAVING TWINS? WILL IT BE GENETIC?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:04:46 PM)
It is pretty low and yes, it is genetically higher probability.
Sims_Lover_12 (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:02 PM)
Where Is MaxisNeil?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:02 PM)
Locked up.
MaxisKane (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:15 PM)
Thanks Lucy and Charles for joining us today!
shny120 (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:16 PM)
Do you all have to have a stiff drink or two before/after chat?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:16 PM)
O.K
AlchemistX (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:24 PM)
MaxisLucy, do you know Will Wright personally?
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:24 PM)
YES, he is great.
MaxisLucy (Sep 2, 2004 7:05:40 PM)
Bye you guys....Can't wait to see what you do with the game!!!
Greetings, Sims Fans!
Where, but in The Sims 2, will you find a Social Bunny or an invisible Shrink when the going gets tough? The Sims 2 is, without a doubt, the funniest, quirkiest and most eccentric game that your gaming dollar can buy – a fact we're all extremely proud of. So when it came time to set the game to music, we looked for talent that shared our particularly skewed outlook on life, simulated or otherwise. An unspoken guideline during this process was, if we could find someone with a history of donning flowerpot headgear, our search was over.
Enter Mark Mothersbaugh...
Mark's music career spans more than thirty years, way back to 1972 when he first formed the electro-pop ironist oddity, Devo. The fact that a band as immediately unique and strange as Devo met with some real serious commercial success in the 1980's with hits like "Whip It" draws some obvious parallels to The Sims, which came from out of nowhere and went on to reap a whirlwind of critical and financial accolades, much like the boys of Devo. Of course, when you continually craft gorgeous pop gems, it hardly matters if you dress your band members up as potatoes, which they did for 1982's Oh No! It's Devo! album.
What most people don't know about Mark is that he has been largely eschewing the limelight for the last decade or so to focus instead on a prestigious and lucrative career as a film and television composer. You can hear his handiwork all over the place, popping up in kid-friendly shows like Pee-Wee's Playhouse, or the Nickelodeon hit, The Rugrats. Mark has also crafted some amazing adult-themed scores for indie-film auteur Wes Anderson's films Bottle Rocket and Rushmore, provided the audio accompaniment for Adam Sandler's ode to goofiness, Happy Gilmore, among others.
Mark, thanks for lending us your particular brand of unhinged genius for The Sims 2! We couldn't be happier with the music!
So in anticipation of the impending release of The Sims 2 we'd like you to get yourself in the mood by listening to this track that Mark wrote for the credits of the game over and over and over again, while you daydream about all the endless hours of fun you'll have once The Sims 2 hits store shelves. I like this track as it really captures the quirky, fun feeling of playing The Sims 2.
This track is particularly important for The Sims 2 team, since it's such a happy, bouncy track. It's impossible to hear this piece of music and not be filled with joy, especially when you listen to it playing over the credits. Watching all those names scroll by, it really hits home that the game is complete and that a team of well over 100 extremely talented people worked their tails off ceaselessly to bring it to the screen of your PC. Mark's music really drives home the sense of accomplishment we all feel – not to mention the party atmosphere that has now descended on the office!
Ahh, jeez...I gotta go. I'm getting all misty.
Whip It Good!
Lucy Bradshaw
The Sims 2 Executive Producer
P.S. How many of you have been tracking The Urbz, our upcoming Sims console game? Well, if you haven't seen it yet, head to The Urbz Website ( http://www.theurbz.com ) to get a brief rundown on what happens when the Sims hit the city....and why am I bringing this up, you ask...well since we are on music-related news, I thought it would be cool to note that the hip-hop megastars the Black Eyed Peas are going to be providing music and more to The Urbz: Sims in the City. The Peas are dropping a new album, Monkey Business, in November, which is coincidentally when The Urbz will be hitting stores as well. As part of the deal, new versions of nine of the songs on Monkey Business will be re-recorded in Simlish for the game, and the Peas themselves will appear as characters in the game! How cool is that!!?
There's plenty going on in The Sims 2 neighborhoods! Take Veronaville and its feuding families, for instance...
The Monty's and the Capp's aren't on the best terms, so the Summerdreams have thrown a party to ease tensions between the two families. A party may not be the best place to settle an argument, however. Will Mercutio be able to control his unruly behavior and allow the party to continue, or will the whole evening become a disaster?
Get a preview of The Sims 2 DVD Edition. See interviews with Lucy Bradshaw, Tim LeTourneau, Matt Brown, Brian Deppiesse and Charles London.
GameSpy has posted their preview of The Sims 2! They have also posted Spy Eyes for the Sim Guys where they take an unsuspecting -- and often unwilling -- Sim and turn him into the man he knows he could be if he wasn't who he actually is.
The athletes over in Athens aren't the only people winning gold medals these days... the team behind the award-winning The Sims 2 have reason to celebrate -- the game has gone gold and is set to be in stores by September 17th.
EA Games' The Sims 2 Goes Gold
The athletes over in Athens aren't the only people winning gold medals these days.the team behind the award-winning The Sims 2 have reason to celebrate -- the game has gone gold and is set to be in stores by September 17th.
This highly anticipated PC game is set to be one of the biggest games of the year. With introduction of genetics, players control their Sims over a lifetime and pass their Sims' DNA down from one from one generation to the next.
Players will be able to create and play virtually their own sitcom by choosing one of five different aspirations: Popularity, Fortune, Family, Knowledge, and Romance. These aspirations in life cause your Sims to have wants and fears -- Will you give them a long successful existence or leave their life in shambles?
The Sims 2 also opens up endless new creative possibilities. Make your own Sim films with the new movie making feature. Create the cast, set the stage, take control of the camera and capture your own screenplay in action. Zoom in close with the new camera to see every last detail.
Generate unique Sims with the new "Create-A-Sim" packed with a vast selection of facial features, hairstyles, and outfits. Gain easy access to player made content and open up endless customization options. Create dream homes and design neighborhoods with the new building, design, and home furnishing options.
It's up to you to take your Sims from the cradle to the grave, fulfill their dreams, and push them to extremes in The Sims 2. What will you make of their lives?
The Sims franchise has sold over 37 million units world wide with the Sims being the best selling PC game of all time.
Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that award-winning composer Mark Mothersbaugh is the composer of the theme music for the highly-anticipated simulation game, The Sims™ 2.
EA ANNOUNCES MARK MOTHERSBAUGH AS LEAD COMPOSER FOR THE SIMS 2
REDWOOD CITY, Calif., August 23, 2004 - Electronic Arts (NASDAQ: ERTS) today announced that award-winning composer Mark Mothersbaugh is the composer of the theme music for the highly-anticipated simulation game, The Sims™ 2. Recently honored with the BMI music award for Outstanding Career Achievement, Mothersbaugh has been repeatedly recognized for his contributions to film, stage and TV music. Now, his extraordinary talents and music will be utilized throughout The Sims 2, the sequel to the best-selling PC game of all time.
Mothersbaugh was a founding member of the influential rock group, Devo whose chart-topping songs include the '80s electro classic Whip It! Since leaving the band, Mothersbaugh has parlayed his avant-garde musical style into the world of entertainment where he scored, composed or directed the music for such films as Envy (2004), Confessions of a Teenage Drama Queen (2004), Rugrats Go Wild (2003), Thirteen (2002), The Royal Tennenbaums (2001), Rushmore (1999) and Happy Gilmore (1996) among many other major works of film and TV.
"I'm very excited to have had the opportunity to work on one the most anticipated PC games of the year. The Sims 2 team is a very talented group of people and working with them on creating music to fit their innovative game was a true highlight for me," said Mothersbaugh. "Computer games are just another vehicle to express my creativity and allow my fans to enjoy my music."
"This is a breakthrough moment in the evolution of musical composition for games. If you want top quality production values, you need A-list talent," said Steve Schnur, Worldwide Executive of Music and Audio at EA. "We hold our games to the same high standards that a major motion picture studio would claim for a blockbuster film. We are thrilled that Mark has lent his expertise to helping us deliver a dramatic, energetic and playful score that will compliment the unpredictable world of The Sims 2."
In addition to the theme music, Mothersbaugh's score is featured throughout key areas of the game. For instance, in Create-A-Sim, players make their own Sims from a vast selection of facial features, hairstyles, and outfits; while in the build and buy modes, players create dream homes and design neighborhoods with the new building and home furnishing options. For the first time, the game allows players to control their Sims over an entire lifetime. With the ground-breaking addition of genetics, Sims now pass their DNA down from one generation to the next, giving the players a more vivid and in-depth Sims experience. Set in a 3D world, it's up to the player to take their Sims from the cradle to the grave, fulfill their dreams and push them to extremes in The Sims 2.
The Sims™ 2 is rate T for Teen by the ESRB with descriptors of Crude Humor, Sexual Themes, Violence and will be in stores by September 17, 2004 under the EA GAMES™ brand.
ABOUT ELECTRONIC ARTS
Electronic Arts Inc. (EA), headquartered in Redwood City, California, is the world's leading interactive entertainment software company. Founded in 1982, EA posted revenues of $2.96 billion for fiscal 2004. The company develops, publishes and distributes interactive software worldwide for video game systems, personal computers and the Internet. EA markets its products under three brand names: EA SPORTS™, EA GAMES™, and EA SPORTS BIG™. EA's homepage and online game site is http://www.ea.com. More information about EA's products and full text of press releases can be found on the Internet at http://info.ea.com.
Electronic Arts, The Sims, EA, EA SPORTS, EA SPORTS BIG and EA GAMES are trademarks or registered trademarks of Electronic Arts Inc. in the U.S. and/or other countries. PlayStation is a registered trademark of Sony Computer Entertainment Inc. Microsoft and Xbox are registered trademarks or trademarks of Microsoft Corporation in the U.S. and/or other countries. Nintendo GameCube is trademark of Nintendo. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.