The Sims
Overview
"The Sims" is a series of life simulation video games developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts. The franchise has sold nearly 200 million copies worldwide, and it is one of the best-selling video game series of all time.
Gameplay
The games in The Sims series are sandbox games, in that they lack any defined goals. The player creates virtual people called "Sims," places them in houses, and helps direct their moods and satisfy their desires. Players can either place their Sims in pre-constructed homes or build them themselves.
Development History
The Sims was created by game designer Will Wright, who was inspired by the 1977 architecture and urban design book A Pattern Language, and his personal experiences in life. The game was developed over a period of 5 years and was released in 2000.
Reception and Legacy
Upon release, The Sims received positive reviews for its unique gameplay and concept. The series has also been praised for its broad appeal to both casual and hardcore gamers. The Sims has had a significant impact on the life simulation genre and has inspired a number of clones and thematic successors.