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If you have so far resisted the draw of the famed people-management game, then The Sims: Double Deluxe might just swing the scales. It allows you to create, direct and manage the lives of SimCity's residents. Each need (eg: hunger, comfort, hygiene) can be met by interacting with other Sims or objects--throw a party with the help of a rocking stereo system and watch your Sims' Social and Fun ratings improve. One gameplay goal is to improve your Sim so he or she can climb the career ladder. Such progress nets him or her more money and allows the purchase of higher quality stuff. Eventually your Sim will have a mate, kids and a mansion with an indoor pool. Whether you're the occasional Sims player or one of the diehard fans who's seen the one-hundred-hours congratulation message, the Livin' It Up and House Party expansion packs will rekindle any flame for this game that's dwindling. In House Party the emphasis is on making your Sims as sociable as possible and there are several theme-party sets including Hawaiian and the option
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to throw a party, but make sure that it goes with a bang otherwise some unwanted non-player characters might show up and nothing kills the party mood like a mime. The expansion packs add a range of new gadgets and gizmos to play--and if you are an avid Web fan then you will notice some of the downloads here, especially the gerbil and balloons--but Maxis have realised this and have been busy creating many other features. New career paths with over 50 jobs have been added. Become a psychic investigator or a musician, a slacker or a journalist. All roles come with new toys to play with at home. If this isn't enough, the game also includes new neighbourhoods to try out if you've run out of space in the current one, although the only drawback is that you can't move from neighbourhood to neighbourhood. The Sims—Livin' It Up and House Party are a great addition to the original, having you completely hooked again in no time and saving up for those elusive expensive items, such as the automatic robot maid. --Stuart Miles
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