Will Wright’s brainchild, The Sims, is one of the most popular franchises in gaming. It is one of the best titles for casual gamers, giving a deep and rewarding experience to anyone willing to put time into it. There is also a place in hardcore gamer’s hearts for The Sims, with its addicting gameplay and customization options. When The Sims 2 was released, it expanded on the first one’s simplicity and brilliance by adding even more layers and gameplay elements without it being overwhelming. Despite being the definition of a series milked to death, every expansion sells amazingly well and fans are constantly wanting more.

Recently there were rumors that a new title in the Sims series was in the works. A countdown appeared on some EA website and people began to chat about what a Sims sequel would be. Now we sort of have an answer, as Games for Windows magazine has a twelve-page preview on The Sims 3 in their April issue.

The formula looks to remain the same in this sequel, which has no release date in sight. Changes include an expanded character creation system and a larger focus on what happens outside of the household. There will be a seamless transition from indoors to out and areas like the town park will become a hotspot for social interaction. Things like this have been implemented to The Sims 2 via expansion packs, but EA plans on making it a more important function to the game in the sequel. The cover also says "no bladder bars," which I guess means no more of my favorite part of the series - tinkling.

No screenshots have been released as of yet, but Gamervision will keep you posted on more information involving the alluring green diamond as it is revealed.

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