When the sequel to the world's most successful game is released, you know that it is very likely to do well but when that game also happens to belong to the biggest publisher then, it seems, the sky is the limit.
Electronic Arts announced that, based on internal data, The Sims 2 sold more than one million copies at retail stores worldwide within the first ten days -- the biggest PC launch in EA's 22-year history.
In the midst of talk of the end of PC gaming and with console deals and console exclusive titles frustrating PC gamers it seems that the strength of the PC as a gaming force has been underestimated and under-utilized. The success of the original Sims and the, apparent, popularity of the Sims 2, suggest that the PC, if used correctly, is the only way mainstream gaming may be achieved. Computer Gaming World's Editor in Chief Jeff Green said ...at a time when console gaming tends to dominate the hype and headlines, The Sims franchise is one of the current saviors of PC gaming. Maybe not a saviour but definitely a wake-up call for publishers and developers.
The Sims 2 kicks off a diverse lineup of EA GAMES branded titles for the fall including: Def Jam Fight for NY and Burnout 3: Takedown, which are available now, and coming later this fall: Medal of Honor Pacific Assault, GoldenEye: Rogue Agent, The Lord of the Rings : The Third Age, The Lord of the Rings: The Battle For Middle-earth and the follow up to 2003's Need For Speed : Underground 2.
The Sims franchise also will deliver a new console game this November to its loyal fan base, The Urbz : Sims in the City. For the first time, The Sims are moving to the city and it's all about building your reputation. Players will be able to unlock nine different districts in the city that never sleeps and gain access to all the hottest VIP spots while interacting with The Black Eyed Peas. The soundtrack to the game includes nine exclusive re-recorded music tracks from The Black Eyed Peas all in Simlish -- the game's quirky language. The Urbz: Sims in the City will be available early November for the PlayStation 2, Xbox, Nintendo GameCube, Nintendo Game Boy Advance and the Nintendo DS.
