The Sims 3#Development
{{Short description|2009 video game}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=June 2011}}
{{Infobox video game
| image = Sims3cover.jpg
| developer = Maxis Redwood Shores{{efn|PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 version developed by Edge of Reality. Wii version developed by Artificial Mind & Movement. Mobile versions developed by EA Mobile, while the Nintendo DS version was developed by Exient Entertainment.}}
| publisher = Electronic Arts
| director = Matt Brown
| producer = JoAnna Lio Amos
Lyndsay Pearson
| designer = Ray Mazza
Matt Goss
Eric Holmberg-Weidler
Juan Custer
Paul Boyle
Sean Baity
| programmer = Darren Gyles
| artist = Morgan Godat
| writer = Sean Baity
| composer = Steve Jablonsky
Pieter Schlosser
| series = The Sims
| platforms = Microsoft Windows, Mac OS X, Android, BlackBerry OS, Windows Phone, iOS, PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, Nintendo DS, N-Gage 2.0, Wii, Nintendo 3DS
| released = {{collapsible list|title={{nobold|June 2, 2009}}|
Windows, Mac OS X{{vgrelease|NA|June 2, 2009|AUS|June 4, 2009|EU|June 4, 2009|UK|June 5, 2009}}Mobile|June 2, 2009|N-Gage 2.0|July 14, 2009|Xbox 360, PlayStation 3, Nintendo DS
{{vgrelease|NA|October 26, 2010|EU|October 29, 2010|AUS|November 5, 2010}}Wii
{{vgrelease |EU|November 12, 2010|NA|November 15, 2010|AUS|November 18, 2010}}Nintendo 3DS
{{vgrelease |EU|March 25, 2011|NA|March 27, 2011}}
}}
| genre = Social simulation
| modes = Single-player
}}
The Sims 3 is a 2009 social simulation video game developed by the Redwood Shores studio of Maxis, and published by Electronic Arts. Part of The Sims series, it is the sequel to The Sims 2. It was released on June 2, 2009, for Microsoft Windows, MacOS, and mobile versions. Console versions were released for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Nintendo DS in October 2010 and a month later for Wii. A Nintendo 3DS version, released on March 27, 2011, was one of the platform's launch titles.
The game follows the same premises as its predecessors The Sims and The Sims 2 and is based around a life simulation where the player controls the actions and fates of its characters, the Sims, as well as their houses and neighborhoods. The Sims 3 expands on previous games in having an open world system, where neighborhoods are completely open for the sims to move around without any loading screens. A new design tool, the Create-a-Style tool, was also introduced. Create-a-Style allows for clothing, hair, as well as most objects and walls/floors to be visually customized, with several textures and materials available to use. Custom designs can also be saved for later use.
The Sims 3 was a critical and commercial success, selling 1.4 million copies in its first week, and is now regarded as one of the greatest video games ever made. The game has sold over ten million copies worldwide since its release with over seven million PC copies, making it one of the best-selling PC games of all time. The game received eleven expansion packs and nine "stuff packs". A sequel, The Sims 4, was released in September 2014.
Gameplay
As in previous games of the franchise, in The Sims 3 players control their own Sims' activities and relationships. The gameplay is open-ended and does not have a defined goal. The Sims live in neighborhoods, now being officially referred to as worlds, which can be customized, allowing the player to create their houses, community lots, and Sims, although many of these come with the core game. These worlds are now seamless, allowing all Sims to move around freely without any loading screen in between lots, as happened in the previous games.{{Cite web |last=Dean |first=Grace |date=2022-09-06 |title=Which is better out of The Sims 3 or The Sims 4? |url=https://www.gamesradar.com/sims-3-vs-sims-4-better-differences/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=GamesRadar+ |archive-date=March 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303200012/https://www.gamesradar.com/sims-3-vs-sims-4-better-differences/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Creswell |first=Jacob |date=2021-04-01 |title=The Sims 3's Open World Was Too Ambitious for Its Time |url=https://www.cbr.com/sims-3-open-world/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=CBR |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230627/https://www.cbr.com/sims-3-open-world/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Woods |first=Jordan |date=2022-12-20 |title=10 Harsh Realities Of Playing The Sims 3 Again |url=https://screenrant.com/the-sims-3-replay-harsh-realities/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=ScreenRant |archive-date=March 6, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230306194939/https://screenrant.com/the-sims-3-replay-harsh-realities/ |url-status=live }}
The neighborhood includes community lots which can be leisure lots (parks, markets, gyms, and movie theaters) and job lots (town hall, hospital, and businesses). Since the neighborhood is open, the game includes the "Story Progression" mechanic, which allows all Sims in the neighborhood to autonomously continue their lives without the player ever controlling them. This helps to advance the story of the whole neighborhood instead of only the active playing units. Sims live for a set duration of time that is adjustable by the player and advance through several life stages (baby, toddler, child, teen, young adult, adult, and elder).{{Cite web |date=2011 |title=Sims 3 Aging, Lifespan, and Stages of the Life Cycle |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/aging.php |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230606/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/aging.php |url-status=live }} Sims can die of old age or from causes such as fire, starvation, drowning, and electrocution.{{Cite web |date=2011 |title=The Sims 3 Death Guide: Causes of Death & Killing Sims |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/death.php |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230530/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/death.php |url-status=live }}
The base game comes with the world Sunset Valley and an additional world called Riverview can be obtained for free from The Sims 3 Store website. All expansion packs except Generations and Seasons included a world,{{cite web |date=2011 |title=Sims 3 Generations gets Adult Material |url=http://www.gamekudos.com/news/4058-sims-3-generations-gets-adult-material |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130123191718/http://www.gamekudos.com/news/4058-sims-3-generations-gets-adult-material |archive-date=2013-01-23 |access-date=2011-08-23 |website=GameKudos.com}}{{Cite web |date=2012 |title=The Sims 3 Seasons Expansion Pack |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/seasons/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=November 1, 2019 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191101131954/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/seasons/ |url-status=live }} and additional worlds can be bought at The Sims 3 Store for SimPoints. Sunset Valley and a few of the other worlds available have some degree of connection to the storyline set up by The Sims and The Sims 2. In-game Sunset Valley is stated to be the same town as the default neighborhood in The Sims, and Pleasantview from The Sims 2, although set twenty-five and fifty years earlier, respectively. Several pre-made characters from other Sim games appear throughout The Sims 3{{'}}s worlds, many of them in younger form.{{Cite web |last=DelGreco |first=Marina |date=2021-02-16 |title=How Every Sims Game Fits on the Timeline |url=https://gamerant.com/every-sims-game-timeline-families-storylines/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Game Rant |archive-date=November 11, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231111225810/https://gamerant.com/every-sims-game-timeline-families-storylines/ |url-status=live }}
Career opportunities like working overtime or completing tasks can yield a pay raise, cash bonus, or relationship boost. Challenges occur randomly based on each Sim's lifestyle, like relationships, skills, and jobs. Skill opportunities are the requests by your Sim's neighbors or community members for Sims to solve problems using their acquired skills for cash or relationship rewards. The new Wishes reward system replaces the Wants and Fears system in its predecessor, The Sims 2. Fulfilling a Sim's wishes contributes to the Sim's Lifetime Happiness score, allowing players to purchase Lifetime Rewards for the cost of those Lifetime Happiness points.{{Cite web |date=2009 |title=The Sims 3 Lifetime Wish Guide for All Expansions |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/lifetimewishes/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=March 17, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240317032801/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/lifetimewishes/ |url-status=live }} The game introduces a big change in terms of customization with the "Create-a-Style" tool. In this way, every object or piece of clothing in the game is completely customizable in terms of color (which can be picked from a color wheel), material (plastic, stone, fabric, wood, and so on) or design pattern.{{Cite web |last=Blackburn |first=Norma |date=2014-08-17 |title=The Sims 3 Create-a-Style: Make Custom Paterns and Colors |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/create-a-style.php |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230529/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/create-a-style.php |url-status=live }}
= Create-a-Sim =
The Sims 3 introduces many more character customization options than its predecessor The Sims 2. Like the previous game, the player can customize age, body build, skin color, hairstyles, clothing, and personality. A new life stage is included between adolescence and adulthood: young adulthood. This stage was introduced in The Sims 2 University only during the university period, but is now accessible from Create-a-Sim. Additional options were added in expansions and updates, such as tattoos, breast size, and muscle definition. The Sims 3 offers a wider range of skin tones than its predecessors, ranging from realistic light and dark skin tones to fantasy green and purple colors.{{Cite web |last=Michael |first=Jon |date=2011-10-25 |title=Creating Sims − The Sims 3 Guide |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/the-sims-3/Creating_Sims |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=IGN |archive-date=March 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303200011/https://www.ign.com/wikis/the-sims-3/Creating_Sims |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Blackburn |first=Norma |date=2012 |title=The Sims 3 Create-a-Sim Guide |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/create-a-sim/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230530/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/create-a-sim/ |url-status=live }}
As opposed to previous games, where personalities consisted of sliders, and a limited set of personality points to distribute among them, The Sims 3 introduces a trait system: adult Sims can have up to five personality traits to pick from a list. These traits can be mental, physical, social, or influenced by lifestyle and jobs. The traits will determine different actions the Sims can make, as well as behaviors and wishes.{{Cite web |date=2009 |title=The Sims 3 Traits List and Hidden Traits |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/traits/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230530/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/traits/ |url-status=live }}
= Skills =
The Sims can learn skills from interacting with different objects. Skills improve gradually in 10 levels. Skill improvements are useful for achieving career goals, as well as unlocking new possibilities for those activities which require the skills; for example, a high gardening level allows the sims to plant different rare seeds. The basic skills include Logic, Cooking, Painting, Gardening, Writing, Guitar, Athletic, Handiness, Charisma, and Fishing. New skills were later added in expansion packs.{{Cite web |date=2009 |title=The Sims 3 Skills List, Information, and Tips |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/skills/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=March 19, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240319180122/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/skills/ |url-status=live }}
= Careers =
Many of the careers from The Sims and The Sims 2 are back in The Sims 3. The careers in the core game are Business, Culinary, Criminal, Education, Journalism, Law Enforcement, Medical, Military, Music, Political, Science, and Professional Sports, as well as part-time jobs in the book shop, supermarket, or spa, which can be accomplished by both adults and teenagers. Each one of the jobs takes place in a community lot of the neighborhood; however, these lots are only "rabbit-hole" buildings, with an external façade, but the player cannot access them and is not able to see what happens inside. Thus, jobs are automatic in the game, even if the player will sometimes receive challenges and questions with different options to have more control over the sims' career performance. Advancing in a career still depends on mood and skills, but with the addition that relationships with colleagues/boss and even certain goals that have to be fulfilled. Players can control if the Sims "Work Hard", "Take It Easy", and "Suck Up To Boss", thus affecting their performance. A new feature The Sims 3 offers is branching careers, which allows Sims to choose a certain path in their career (such as a Sim in the Music career can eventually choose to specialize in Symphonic music or Rock). These branches are generally offered around level 6 of a career, depending on which career the Sim is working.{{Cite web |date=2009 |title=The Sims 3 Career Track and Profession Guides |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/careers/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230531/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/careers/ |url-status=live }}
The Ambitions expansion pack includes brand-new professions that are playable: Firefighter, Ghost Hunter, Investigator, Architectural Designer, and Stylist.{{cite web |last=Stapleton |first=Dan |date=June 25, 2010 |title=The Sims 3: Ambitions review |url=http://www.pcgamer.com/the-sims-3-ambitions-review/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006170724/http://www.pcgamer.com/the-sims-3-ambitions-review/ |archive-date=October 6, 2014 |access-date=January 7, 2018 |website=PC Gamer}}{{cite web |last=Erickson |first=Tracy |date=September 21, 2010 |title=The Sims 3: Ambitions |url=http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/iPhone/The+Sims+3%3A+Ambitions/review.asp?c=23667 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722210828/http://www.pocketgamer.co.uk/r/iPhone/The+Sims+3%3A+Ambitions/review.asp?c=23667 |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=January 7, 2018 |website=Pocket Gamer}} Some of them take place in a playable community lot, such as Firefighter or Stylist, while the others are freelance jobs. Players can search for gigs in the neighborhood and actually accomplish them. For example, an Architectural Designer can visit other sims' houses and redecorate them in exchange for money and career performance. Sims are also able to make a living at home through their skills such as selling their own paintings, writing novels, playing guitar for tips, or growing fruit and vegetables.{{cite web |last=Gallegos |first=Anthony |date=June 1, 2010 |title=The Sims 3: Ambitions Review |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/06/01/the-sims-3-ambitions-review |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130120075613/http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/06/01/the-sims-3-ambitions-review |archive-date=January 20, 2013 |access-date=January 7, 2018 |website=IGN |publisher=News Corporation}}{{cite web |last=VanOrd |first=Kevin |date=June 7, 2010 |title=The Sims 3: Ambitions Review |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-3-ambitions-review/1900-6264817/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305032314/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-3-ambitions-review/1900-6264817/ |archive-date=March 5, 2014 |access-date=January 7, 2018 |website=GameSpot |publisher=CBS Interactive}} Sims can also buy out businesses and receive a percentage of the profits they earn.{{Cite web |date=2010 |title=The Sims 3 Real Estate − Buy Property and Upgrade Venues |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/careers/realestateandvenues.php |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=March 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303200012/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/careers/realestateandvenues.php |url-status=live }}
= Build and Buy modes =
As in previous Sim games, a build and buy tool is included to design houses and community lots. The two modes retain most of the main fundamental tools from the previous games. Build mode is used to add walls, paint them, add stairs, doors and windows, lay down flooring, create foundations, basements, pools, and ponds. Some expansion packs add extra build mode features such as terrain design. Players cannot build or place objects outside the limits of the lot.{{Cite web |last=Thigpen |first=Tom |date=2011 |title=The Sims 3 Building Guide: Learn to Build Houses |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/buildedit/houses/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=July 26, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240726213200/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/buildedit/houses/ |url-status=live }}
In Buy mode, the player can purchase and place down new objects, such as appliances, electronics, furniture, and vehicles. Buy mode largely focuses on providing objects that are useful or necessary for the sims, allowing them to build skills, provide some sort of utility, or purely to act as house decoration. The descriptions of many of the objects available for purchase in the game involve humor, sarcasm, insults towards the player, and wit, and serves as comic relief in the game.{{Cite web |date=2010 |title=The Sims 3 Buy Mode Object Guide − Where to Buy/Find Items |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/objects/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008230531/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/objects/ |url-status=live }}
The build and buy modes have received their own makeover. The modes maintain the grid building system from the previous game; however, this grid is more flexible now, allowing the objects to be laid down in the middle of the tiles or without any grid help at all. A blueprint mode is added in further expansions, where pre-designed rooms are available to lay down as-is. The Create-a-Style tool can also be applied to redesign every single piece of furniture or building, changing to any color, material, or design pattern.{{Cite news |last=Morton |first=Lauren |date=2022-06-03 |title=The Sims 3 was ultimate freedom for builders |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/the-sims-3-was-ultimate-freedom-for-builders/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |work=PC Gamer |archive-date=March 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303200011/https://www.pcgamer.com/the-sims-3-was-ultimate-freedom-for-builders/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite news |last=Morton |first=Lauren |date=2022-10-18 |title=The next Sims game is bringing back my beloved Create-A-Style tool |url=https://www.pcgamer.com/the-next-sims-game-is-bringing-back-my-beloved-create-a-style-tool/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |work=PC Gamer |archive-date=March 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303200011/https://www.pcgamer.com/the-next-sims-game-is-bringing-back-my-beloved-create-a-style-tool/ |url-status=live }}
= Create-a-World =
On October 29, 2009, Electronic Arts announced "Create-a-World" (CAW), which is a game world editor that allows players to create their own custom cities from scratch for use within the game. Players can customize lots, choose terrain patterns and add roads, vegetation, and neighborhood accents, such as water towers and lighthouses. CAW also allows players to import designs from PNG files for use in their worlds. Users can upload their worlds to The Sims 3 Exchange for download by other players. The editor tool is offered to players as a separate download, and was released on December 16, 2009, as a beta version. EA would offer technical support and updates. Players are able to share their neighborhoods as with other content. The Create-a-World tool is available for Windows-based PCs.{{cite web |date=May 3, 2010 |title=Create a World-The Game-Community-The Sims 3 |url=http://www.thesims3.com/game/tools/world |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091128060211/http://www.thesims3.com/game/tools/world |archive-date=November 28, 2009 |access-date=May 3, 2010 |publisher=Electronic Arts}}{{Cite web |last=Hickman |first=Tom |date=2011 |title=The Sims 3 Create a World Introduction |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/createaworld.php |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=December 3, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231203152817/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/info/createaworld.php |url-status=live }}
= Family =
As a life simulation game, Sims can have families. Players can create a family in Create-a-Sim and edit their relationships, or they can manually meet different sims and have children. Young adults and adults can try for a baby. There is no "Try for Baby" option for any younger or older Sims. The only exception is senior males – they can try for a baby with a young adult or adult female, although conception can be significantly harder. In order to try for a baby, two Sims of the opposite gender must have a relationship of "Romantic Interest" or higher. A lullaby-like melody will play if the sim has conceived, although on rare occasions it may not play. Sims will get the Nauseous moodlet if they are pregnant, and these symptoms will persist for about one Sim day until they discover they are pregnant and will change into default pregnancy clothes. From now on until after birth, the Sim will not be able to wear their usual clothes. Some pregnancy symptoms Sims can experience are nausea, backache, reduced or increased appetite, and inability to partake in certain actions or exercise. When the Sim goes into labour, they can either deliver the baby at hospital or have a home birth. Most Sims go to hospital by default, although this action can be cancelled. Kids and baby interior can be bought in buy mode. Babies require a lot of attention and care, and can get whisked away by social services if it is not given to them – along with toddlers, kids, and teenagers. Babysitters can be hired to accompany children if their parents are busy.{{Cite web |date=2009 |title=The Sims 3 Pregnancy, Adoption, and Having Kids |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/skills/parenting/ |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=March 21, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240321000610/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/skills/parenting/ |url-status=live }}{{Cite web |last=Michael |first=Jon |date=2011-10-25 |title=Procreation − The Sims 3 Guide |url=https://www.ign.com/wikis/the-sims-3/Procreation |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=IGN |archive-date=March 3, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240303200012/https://www.ign.com/wikis/the-sims-3/Procreation |url-status=live }}
Development
Electronic Arts announced The Sims 3 on March 19, 2008.{{cite web | last = Paul | first = Ure | title = The Sims 3 Announced | publisher = Action Trip.com | date = March 19, 2008 | url = http://www.actiontrip.com/news/the-sims-3-announced-screens/031908_9 | access-date = April 5, 2009 | url-status = usurped | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131002120848/http://www.actiontrip.com/news/the-sims-3-announced-screens/031908_9 | archive-date = October 2, 2013 | df = mdy-all }} On January 15, 2009, Maxis invited "some of the best" custom content creators to their campus at Redwood Shores where they were hosting a Creator's Camp. Creators have been invited to spend the week exploring and creating content like Sims, houses, and customized content. The creators' work was used to pre-populate The Sims 3 Exchange. On May 8, 2009, Maxis announced that The Sims 3 had gone gold, meaning that the game had finished beta testing stage and was off for manufacturing ahead of its June 2009 release. On May 15, 2009, Maxis released several online interactive teaser experiences on The Sims 3 website, including SimFriend, which allows users to choose a virtual Sim Friend who would email them throughout the day; SimSocial, which allows users to create their own Sim online, and have an adventure with them; and SimSidekick, which allows users to surf the web with a sim. Two weeks before the game was scheduled to be released, an unauthorized copy of the digital distribution version of the game leaked onto the Internet.{{cite web |title=Sims 3 leaked to torrent sites weeks before retail release |url=https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2009/05/sims-3-leaked-to-torrent-sites-weeks-before-retail-release/ |author=Ben Kuchera |publisher=Ars Technica |date=May 18, 2009 |access-date=May 18, 2009 |archive-date=September 12, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120912161927/https://arstechnica.com/gaming/2009/05/sims-3-leaked-to-torrent-sites-weeks-before-retail-release/ |url-status=live }} Maxis later commented that the leak was a "buggy, pre-final" version susceptible to crashes, and that more than half of the game was missing.{{cite news|url=http://www.statesman.com/business/content/business/stories/other/05/23/0523gamepiracy.html|title=Video game pirates swoop on 'The Sims 3'|last=Satariano|first=Adam|date=May 23, 2009|work=Bloomberg News|access-date=May 23, 2009|archive-date=May 27, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090527081852/http://www.statesman.com/business/content/business/stories/other/05/23/0523gamepiracy.html|url-status=live}} Reportedly, the title saw higher copyright infringement rates than that of the most torrented game of 2008, Spore, also developed by Maxis.{{cite web |url=http://www.afterdawn.com/news/article.cfm/2009/05/30/sims_3_piracy_rates_higher_than_spore |title='Sims 3' piracy rates higher than 'Spore' |publisher=Afterdawn.com |date=May 30, 2009 |access-date=June 30, 2009 |archive-date=October 14, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101014092435/http://www.afterdawn.com/news/article.cfm/2009/05/30/sims_3_piracy_rates_higher_than_spore |url-status=live }}
Maxis relied on user feedback from previous games.{{Cite news|url=http://www.mtv.com/news/2462117/sims-3-producers-advice-to-devs-screw-up-a-lot-developer-pop-quiz-10/|title='Sims 3' Producer's Advice To Devs: Screw Up A Lot -- Developer Pop Quiz #10|work=MTV News|access-date=2017-11-18|language=en|archive-date=December 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201030404/http://www.mtv.com/news/2462117/sims-3-producers-advice-to-devs-screw-up-a-lot-developer-pop-quiz-10/|url-status=dead}} In order to make the game's animations look believable but goofy, the team shot real life references of people doing tasks in outrageous ways until satisfied with the outcome.{{cite AV media|author=@TheSims|title=The Sims 3 – Behind the Scenes|date=2008-08-28|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ouH0G6-wK9g |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/ouH0G6-wK9g |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|access-date=2017-11-18|via=YouTube}}{{cbignore}} Each character in the game was specifically created by the developers to have their own life story, wishes, dreams, and personalities. The developers spend a lot of time trying to get the world to feel seamless and the characters to feel real.{{Cite news|url=https://www.gameplanet.co.nz/pc/features/i133344/The-Sims-3-How-does-it-all-work/|title=The Sims 3: How does it all work?|work=Gameplanet|access-date=2017-11-18|language=en|archive-date=December 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201031621/https://www.gameplanet.co.nz/pc/features/i133344/The-Sims-3-How-does-it-all-work/|url-status=live}}{{Cite news|url=https://kotaku.com/a-sims-fan-theory-that-gets-pretty-dark-1641330321|title=A Sims Fan Theory That Gets Pretty Dark|last=Hernandez|first=Patricia|work=Kotaku|access-date=2017-11-18|language=en-US|archive-date=December 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201033144/https://kotaku.com/a-sims-fan-theory-that-gets-pretty-dark-1641330321|url-status=live}}
= Marketing =
On October 31, 2008, two teaser trailers were released by Electronic Arts featuring a comical view on the 2008 United States presidential election in the United States. Candidates John McCain and Barack Obama were included along with respective running mates Sarah Palin and Joe Biden.{{cite AV media|author=@stevent888|date=October 31, 2008|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M_p3bcTwhGA |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/M_p3bcTwhGA |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title=The Sims 3 – Sarah Palin dancing|via=YouTube|access-date=2020-04-12}}{{cbignore}}{{cite AV media|author=@IGN|date=October 31, 2008|title=The Sims 3 PC Games Trailer – Palin and Biden Fight|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NW9nuFRsWHI |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/NW9nuFRsWHI |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|via=YouTube|access-date=2021-08-22}}{{cbignore}} In April 2009, Electronic Arts began to post billboards in many areas in advertisement for the game. Many of the billboards covered skyscrapers in densely populated areas, most notably Times Square in New York City. The costs of these billboards was estimated to be $10 million a month.{{cite web |last=Kee |first=Tameka |url=http://paidcontent.org/2009/04/13/419-ea-goes-all-out-with-sims-3-ad-blitz/ |title=EA Goes All Out With Pricey Sims 3 Ad Blitz |publisher=paidContent |date=April 13, 2009 |access-date=September 18, 2011 |archive-date=September 22, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130922202813/http://paidcontent.org/2009/04/13/419-ea-goes-all-out-with-sims-3-ad-blitz/ |url-status=dead }} On March 23, 2009, The Sims 3 was threaded throughout the storyline of an episode of One Tree Hill.{{cite web|url=http://thesims2.ea.com/news/detail.php?id=1728|title=The Sims 3 visits One Tree Hill on The CW Tonight!| publisher=Electronic Arts|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090327144451/http://thesims2.ea.com/news/detail.php?id=1728 |archive-date=March 27, 2009|access-date=March 3, 2024 }}
On April 19, 2009, Target released a promotional disc of The Sims 3 that features a Ladytron band poster, The Sims 3 theme song music download, and a $5 off coupon. The main menu includes screensaver downloads, videos, Create-a-Sim, Create-A-House, and much more. There is no actual gameplay involved, but it describes what playing feels like. On July 14, 2010, Ford began a promotion at The Sims 3 Store by allowing players to download their newest car at the time, the Ford Fiesta Mark VII. The car also came with a collection of street signs.{{cite web |url=http://store.thesims3.com/fiesta?intcmp=eaint505&sourceid=eaom695 |title=Fiesta Urban Landscape |date=July 14, 2010 |publisher=Electronic Arts |access-date=September 18, 2011 |archive-date=July 20, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100720192847/http://store.thesims3.com/fiesta?intcmp=eaint505&sourceid=eaom695 |url-status=live }} On October 27, 2010, the download was updated to include the Fiesta Hatchback.{{cite web |url=http://www.beyondsims.com/26473/the-sims-3-store-updates-with-free-2011-fiesta-hatchback/ |title=The Sims 3 Store updates with FREE 2011 Fiesta Hatchback |author=Judhudson |date=October 27, 2010 |access-date=September 24, 2013 |archive-date=September 28, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928025234/http://www.beyondsims.com/26473/the-sims-3-store-updates-with-free-2011-fiesta-hatchback/ |url-status=live }} The 2012 Ford Focus was made available to download on June 8, 2011. The car included one male Ford T-shirt, one female Ford T-shirt, a stereo, and a set of neon lights, all for use in-game. The Focus pack was available to download on Mac, PC, Xbox, and PlayStation platforms.{{cite web |url=http://www.beyondsims.com/31013/2012-ford-focus-now-available-to-download-for-the-sims-3/ |title=2012 Ford Focus now available to download for The Sims 3 |author=Judhudson |date=June 9, 2011 |access-date=September 24, 2013 |archive-date=September 28, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130928025237/http://www.beyondsims.com/31013/2012-ford-focus-now-available-to-download-for-the-sims-3/ |url-status=live }}
In 2012, EA partnered with American singer Katy Perry to promote The Sims 3. As part of the promotion, a special Katy Perry Collector's Edition of the Showtime expansion pack was released, as well as the limited edition Katy Perry's Sweet Treats stuff pack.{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/Sims-Showtime-Katy-Perry-Collectors-Expansion/dp/B0050SYZX0|title=The Sims 3: Showtime – Katy Perry Collector's Expansion Pack Edition – PC – Amazon|website=Amazon|access-date=August 25, 2021|archive-date=August 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210825104635/https://www.amazon.com/Sims-Showtime-Katy-Perry-Collectors-Expansion/dp/B0050SYZX0|url-status=live}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.ea.com/en-gb/news/the-sims-3-katy-perrys-sweet-treats|title=The Sims 3 Katy Perry's Sweet Treats – EA|date=May 28, 2012|access-date=August 25, 2021|archive-date=October 21, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211021175305/https://www.ea.com/en-gb/news/the-sims-3-katy-perrys-sweet-treats|url-status=live}} Both packs incorporate concept elements from Perry's third studio album Teenage Dream (2010), with the latter including a Simlish rendition of the album's fifth single, "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)", in the in-game radio.{{cite web|url=https://www.capitalfm.com/artists/katy-perry/news/simlish-the-sims/|title=Katy Perry Sings 'Last Friday Night' In Simlish For The Sims 3 – Video|access-date=August 25, 2021|archive-date=August 25, 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210825104626/https://www.capitalfm.com/artists/katy-perry/news/simlish-the-sims/|url-status=live}}
= Audio =
Music for The Sims 3 was composed by Steve Jablonsky.{{cite web|url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/923/923112p1.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081030023222/http://pc.ign.com/articles/923/923112p1.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=October 30, 2008|title=The Sims Label Announces Steve Jablonsky as Mastermind Behind the Creative Sound of Sims 3|date=October 23, 2008|publisher=IGN}} Scores were recorded with the Hollywood Studio Symphony at Newman Scoring Stage at 20th Century Fox.{{Cite news | author=Goldwasser, Dan | url=http://www.scoringsessions.com/news/160 | title=Steve Jablonsky scores The Sims 3 | publisher=Scoring Sessions | date=November 2, 2008 | access-date=February 11, 2008 | archive-date=November 6, 2008 | archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081106075757/http://www.scoringsessions.com/news/160/ | url-status=live }} Music for the game's stereo and guitar objects was produced by others, including Ladytron, Darrell Brown, Rebeca Mauleon, and Peppino D'Agostino. Additional music was produced by APM Music.{{cite web|title=The Sims 3 (2009) Windows credits – MobyGames|url=http://www.mobygames.com/game/windows/sims-3/credits|access-date=July 8, 2011|archive-date=July 2, 2009|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090702162209/http://www.mobygames.com/game/windows/sims-3/credits|url-status=live}} Two soundtracks have been released for The Sims 3 base game: The Sims 3 Soundtrack and The Sims 3 – Stereo Jams. The soundtrack includes theme music and the Stereo Jams album includes music from stereos in game. All songs on Stereo Jams are in Simlish, the language of Sims. Several musical artists partnered with EA to perform some of their songs in Simlish. Artists have ranged from Katy Perry, Lady Antebellum, Flaming Lips, Damien Marley, Depeche Mode, Nelly Furtado, and Flo Rida.{{Cite news|url=https://www.ea.com/news/reknown-artists-partner-with-ea-on-the-sims|title=Flo Rida, My Chemical Romance, Travie McCoy, 3oh!3, and More Partner with EA on the Uber Popular Life Simulator Series The Sims|last=Arts|first=Electronic|date=2010-09-02|work=Electronic Arts Inc.|access-date=2017-11-18|language=en|archive-date=December 1, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171201041330/https://www.ea.com/news/reknown-artists-partner-with-ea-on-the-sims|url-status=live}}
= Release =
On February 3, 2009, it was announced that the release date of The Sims 3 would be delayed from February 20, 2009, to June 2, 2009, in the United States, and June 5, 2009, in the United Kingdom.{{cite web |last=Cheer |first=Dan |url=http://www.gameplanet.co.nz/features/132872.20090220.The-Sims-3-Q-A-session/ |title=The Sims 3 Q&A session – Gameplanet Feature |work=Gameplanet |publisher=Gameplanet.co.nz |access-date=June 30, 2009 |archive-date=February 21, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090221200456/http://www.gameplanet.co.nz/features/132872.20090220.The-Sims-3-Q-A-session/ |url-status=live }} EA Singapore launched The Sims 3 with a large launch party,{{cite web |author=Electronic Arts (EA) Singapore |url=http://thesims3.ea.com.sg |title=The Sims 3 Pre-order & Launch Party site for Singapore |publisher=Thesims3.ea.com.sg |date=June 2, 2009 |access-date=June 30, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090701104904/http://thesims3.ea.com.sg/ |archive-date=July 1, 2009 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} which was held on June 2, 2009, at the Bugis+ shopping mall in Singapore. At the event, The Sims 3 T-shirts were available for purchase. In Sydney, Australia on June 4, 2009, a fashion event to show off the freedom and self-expression in The Sims 3 was held by Electronic Arts Australia, and included a performance by Jessica Mauboy.{{cite web |url=http://www.electronicarts.com.au/news/sims3launchevent |title=Are You A Fan of the Sims? And Live in Sydney? |publisher=Electronicarts.com.au |access-date=June 30, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090601062403/http://www.electronicarts.com.au/news/sims3launchevent |archive-date=June 1, 2009 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }}
The game was released as both a standard edition and a Collector's Edition. Both the Collector's Edition and the standard edition of the game comes with a coupon for 1000 Sim Points to spend at The Sims 3 Store.{{cite web |url=http://www.ea.com/the-sims-3-collectors-edition |title=The Sims 3 Collector's Edition: PC Mac – EA Games |publisher=Ea.com |access-date=June 30, 2009 |archive-date=June 7, 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110607215007/http://www.ea.com/the-sims-3-collectors-edition |url-status=live }} The standard edition contains the first release of the core game, while the Collector's Edition includes the Sims 3 core game, a 2 GB The Sims Plumbob flash drive (the USB flash drive is preloaded with wallpapers and screensavers of the game, and the main theme as an MP3 file) with matching Green Carabiner, an exclusive European-styled Sports Car download, a Prima Tips and Hints Guide (not the actual Sims 3 Prima Guide), and Plumbob stickers. Those that pre-ordered the game also got a Vintage Sports Car download, The Sims 3 Neighborhood Poster, and a quick start reference guide.{{cite web |url=http://thesims3.ea.com/view/pages/ce_preorder.jsp |title=About The Sims 3 |publisher=Electronic Arts |date=March 19, 2008 |access-date=February 3, 2009 |archive-date=October 17, 2008 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081017091811/http://thesims3.ea.com/view/pages/ce_preorder.jsp |url-status=live }} A preview CD with more information about The Sims 3, such as music samples, family descriptions, and career information, was also released.{{cite web |url=http://www.applethoughts.com/news/show/93979/the-sims-3-in-the-app-store.html |title=The Sims 3 in the App Store |publisher=Applethoughts.com |date=June 3, 2009 |access-date=June 6, 2012 |archive-date=September 9, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090909141607/http://www.applethoughts.com/news/show/93979/the-sims-3-in-the-app-store.html |url-status=live }}
When the game was released on June 2, 2009, it featured both versions for Microsoft Windows and Mac OS X on the same disc, unlike the previous games in The Sims series, which were ported to Mac by Aspyr and released several months later after the initial release date. The Mac version was created with the help of Transgaming, Inc., who licensed Cider to developers in order to make their games Mac compatible by emulating Windows APIs. Playing the game on Mac often results in poorer performance than in Windows, especially on higher-end systems. As it is a 32-bit application, it is not compatible with macOS Catalina or later. On October 2, 2019, Maxis announced that they would release an updated 64-bit version of the game, titled The Sims 3 (64-Bit & Metal), with compatibility for Mac OS X Catalina or later. Players who register the game on Origin would get the new version for free.{{cite web |url=https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-Mac/An-announcement-for-The-Sims-3-players-on-Mac/td-p/8271641 |title=An announcement for The Sims 3 players on Mac |publisher=Electronic Arts |date=October 2, 2019 |access-date=January 19, 2020 |archive-date=January 8, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200108080807/https://answers.ea.com/t5/Technical-Issues-Mac/An-announcement-for-The-Sims-3-players-on-Mac/td-p/8271641 |url-status=live }} The Sims 3 (64-Bit & Metal) was released on October 28, 2020.
= Game Engine =
The Sims 3 uses a heavily modified version of Criterion's RenderWare as game engine for the PC release, that was adapted to have better simulation and data stream for the open world.{{Cite web | url=https://www.thesims3.com/content/pt_BR/promo/gamepages/worldtool/help.pdf | language=pt | title=SIMS 3 - Criar um mundo | trans-title=Create a world}}
Ports
= Mobile =
File:Iphone-sim3-screenshot.jpg
The Sims 3 was also released on mobile platforms in two different versions concurrently with the PC release in June 2009.{{Cite news |last=Stuart |first=Keith |date=2009-06-17 |title=Mobile and iPhone gaming round-up |url=https://www.theguardian.com/technology/gamesblog/2009/jun/17/mobile-iphone |access-date=2025-06-26 |work=The Guardian |language=en-GB |issn=0261-3077}} The touch-operated, 3D mobile version of The Sims 3 was first released for iOS (iPhone and iPod Touch), and works similar to that of the PC version.{{Cite web |last=Erickson |first=Tracy |date=2009-05-27 |title=Talking Simlish with Producer Justin Taber about bringing The Sims 3 to iPhone |url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/the-sims-3-smartphone/talking-simlish-with-producer-justin-taber-about-bringing-the-sims-3-to-iphone/ |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=www.pocketgamer.com |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Contributor |date=2009-06-05 |title=Review: The Sims 3 for iPhone |url=https://techcrunch.com/2009/06/05/review-the-sims-3-for-iphone/ |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=TechCrunch |language=en-US}}{{Cite news |title=Sims 3 Uses iPhone 3.0 Features - IGN |url=http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/03/17/sims-3-uses-iphone-30-features |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150930105151/http://www.ign.com/articles/2009/03/17/sims-3-uses-iphone-30-features |archive-date=2015-09-30 |access-date=2025-06-26 |work=IGN |language=en}} This version was later in 2010 also released for Android, Bada, Symbian (as The Sims 3 HD), Palm webOS and Windows Phone (October 15).{{Cite web |last=Yackulic |first=Christopher |date=2010-12-19 |title=EA Mobile Brings Sims 3 to Android |url=https://www.androidheadlines.com/2010/12/ea-mobile-brings-sims-3-to-android.html |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=Android Headlines |language=en-US}}{{Cite web |last=Editor |first=Stephany Nunneley-Jackson Former News |date=2010-01-07 |title=Palm introduces 3D games for webOS phones |url=https://www.vg247.com/palm-introduces-3d-games-for-webos-phones |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=VG247 |language=en}}{{Cite web |date=2010-10-28 |title=The Sims 3 HD |url=http://www.allaboutsymbian.com/reviews/item/12234_The_Sims_3_HD.php |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=All About Symbian |language=en}} A cursor-based, 2D mobile version of The Sims 3 with isometric graphics, was released for the Java (J2ME) platform. This version was also released on N-Gage 2.0 on July 14 of the same year,{{Cite web |last=Mundy |first=Jon |date=July 15, 2009 |title=The Sims 3 out now on N-Gage |url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/the-sims-3-n-gage/the-sims-3-out-now-on-n-gage/ |access-date=March 15, 2024 |website=Pocket Gamer |language=en |archive-date=March 15, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240315193736/https://www.pocketgamer.com/the-sims-3-n-gage/the-sims-3-out-now-on-n-gage/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://www.n-sider.com/contentview.php?contentid=4006|title=Exclusive GDC10 Leak: Sims 3 for Nintendo DS|date=2010-03-13|publisher=N-Sider.com|access-date=2010-03-13|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304050223/http://www.n-sider.com/contentview.php?contentid=4006|url-status=live}} on BlackBerry App World and Windows Mobile in November that year.{{Cite web |last=Contributor |first=GamesIndustry biz |date=2009-08-21 |title=BlackBerry App World |url=https://www.gamesindustry.biz/blackberry-app-world-for-download-bejeweled-need-for-speed-undercover-risk-scrabble-tetris-the-sims-3-tiger-woods-pga-tour |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=GamesIndustry.biz |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=BeyondSims |date=2009-11-17 |title=The Sims 3 for Windows Mobile phones |url=https://beyondsims.com/2009/11/the-sims-3-for-windows-mobile-phones/ |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=BeyondSims |language=en-GB}}
In Create-a-Sim, instead of Lifetime Wishes, there are personas. Personas decide which lifetime wishes your sim will have, as a persona is the largest factor in a Sim's personality. Sims start out with a small house. The house can be expanded every five sim days if the player can afford it.{{cite web|title=The Sims 3 on iTunes App Store|website=iTunes|url=https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-sims-3/id317904170?mt=8|access-date=September 16, 2017|archive-date=November 15, 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151115235124/https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/the-sims-3/id317904170?mt=8|url-status=dead}} There are four careers in the town: biology, politics, business, and culinary. As in the PC version, Sims can also learn skills. There are nearly 75 wishes in the game.{{Cite web |url=http://wireless.ign.com/articles/989/989265p1.html |title=The Sims 3 iPhone Review – iPhone Review at IGN |access-date=April 18, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120817063901/http://wireless.ign.com/articles/989/989265p1.html |archive-date=August 17, 2012 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} When all of them are fulfilled, Sims unlock the criminal career and have the ability to purchase a car. In some events, such as appliances breaking down, the player must play a minigame to solve or do the action.
On November 6, 2009, EA announced the release of a vampire theme pack for the iPhone. The pack included Live it or Wear it Sets with Vampires and Werewolves, Castle and Campus Life themes. "Live it" sets contain car, furniture, decoration, wallpaper, and flooring.{{cite web |date=November 19, 2009 |title=News and Events – Community – The Sims 3 |url=http://www.thesims3.com/community/news.html?selMonth=10&selYear=2009 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419104943/http://www.thesims3.com/community/news.html?selMonth=10&selYear=2009 |archive-date=April 19, 2017 |access-date=April 18, 2017 |website=The Sims 3}} "Wear it" sets contain clothing, new CAS options, and hair styles.
A number of standalone expansion packs have been released for the mobile version of the game. The first was World Adventures, released in February 2010 for Java{{Cite web |date=2010-02-03 |title=The Sims 3: World Adventures Review |url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/the-sims-3-world-adventures/review/ |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=www.pocketgamer.com |language=en}} and April 2, 2010 for iPhone. World Adventures adds tombs, new challenges, personas, and careers, new places to explore (China, Egypt and France), clothes and new furniture. A second standalone expansion pack, Ambitions, was released on September 16, 2010.{{cite web|url=http://www.cheatsguru.com/iphone/the_sims_3_ambitions/walkthrough/2167118.htm|title=Walkthrough – Sims 3 Ambitions for iPhone / iPod Touch Career Guide Walkthrough for The Sims 3 Ambitions IPhone|website=CheatsGuru.com
|access-date=April 18, 2017|archive-date=April 19, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170419111841/http://www.cheatsguru.com/iphone/the_sims_3_ambitions/walkthrough/2167118.htm|url-status=live}}{{Cite web |last=Wilson |first=Will |date=2010-09-24 |title=Sims 3: Ambitions making a home for itself on Java mobiles |url=https://www.pocketgamer.com/the-sims-3-ambitions/sims-3-ambitions-making-a-home-for-itself-on-java-mobiles/ |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=www.pocketgamer.com |language=en}} Ambitions added new skills (firefighting, painting, parenting and sports), new community buildings, and the ability to have children. The Supernatural expansion pack was released for the Java version in 2012 which is based around magical and gothic themes.{{Cite web |date=2012-11-05 |title=New apps to try this week - yWeather, Magic 8-Ball, Sims 3 Supernatural |url=https://crackberry.com/new-apps-try-week-yweather-magic-8-ball-sims-3-supernatural |access-date=2025-06-26 |website=CrackBerry |language=en}} Finally was the Winter Edition expansion pack released for Java.{{Cite web |others=Author: Official Sims 3 Mobile social media account on VK |title=The Sims Mobile {{!}} Симс на мобильный телефон |url=https://vk.com/wall-26564854_273 |website=VK.com |language=Russian}}
= Console =
Developed by Edge of Reality,{{Cite web |url=http://www.edgeofreality.com/games_thesims3.html |title=The Sims 3—Let There Be Sims |publisher=Edge of Reality|date=2011|access-date=April 18, 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170623175202/http://www.edgeofreality.com/games_thesims3.html |archive-date=June 23, 2017 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} The Sims 3 was released to video game consoles on October 26, 2010, for PlayStation 3, Xbox 360, and Nintendo DS. It was later released for Wii on November 15, 2010,{{cite web|url=http://uk.wii.gamespy.com/wii/the-sims-3/|title=The Sims 3 – Wii – GameSpy|website=uk.wii.gamespy.com|access-date=April 18, 2017|archive-date=March 4, 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160304085030/http://uk.wii.gamespy.com/wii/the-sims-3/|url-status=live}} and Nintendo 3DS on March 25, 2011.{{cite web|url=http://www.thesims3.com/console_annc/|title=The Sims 3|website=The Sims 3|date=March 25, 2010|access-date=April 18, 2017|archive-date=May 1, 2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100501133602/http://www.thesims3.com/console_annc/|url-status=live}}{{cite web |url=http://ds.ign.com/articles/109/1097918p1.html |title=E3 2010: Big List of 3DS Games – DS News at IGN |website=IGN |date=2010-06-15 |access-date=2010-09-20 |archive-date=November 3, 2012 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103084956/http://www.ign.com/articles/2010/06/15/e3-2010-big-list-of-3ds-games |url-status=live }}{{cite web|url=http://uk.ds.gamespy.com/nintendo-ds/the-sims-3/|title=The Sims 3 – Nintendo DS – GameSpy|website=uk.ds.gamespy.com|access-date=April 18, 2017|archive-date=May 19, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180519205256/http://uk.ds.gamespy.com/nintendo-ds/the-sims-3/|url-status=live}} The game allows the player to take on up to three friends in the Life Moments Game on the Wii, upload and download content on Xbox Live and PlayStation Network, including furnishings, houses, and player creations or experience a full life simulation on a handheld with Nintendo DS. Reviews for the game ranged from average to moderately positive. Sims can age and die, and life cycles can be disabled optionally.{{cite web |author=Anthony Gallegos |url=http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/109/1095336p1.html |title=The Sims 3 Console First Look – PlayStation 3 Preview at IGN |publisher=Uk.ps3.ign.com |date=2010-06-08 |access-date=2010-09-20 |archive-date=June 12, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100612110909/http://uk.ps3.ign.com/articles/109/1095336p1.html |url-status=live }} The Sims 3 features a new Karma system (similar to the influence system in The Sims 2). Sims can interact with child Sims around the neighborhood, or have children of their own.{{cite AV media|author=@Sims2SouthAfrica|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O4SG3QqlWPc |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/O4SG3QqlWPc |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title=The Sims 3 for Console Interview – Sam Player |via=YouTube |access-date=2010-09-20}}{{cbignore}} Unlike the PC version of the game, the console versions have loading times when moving from one area to another, and when accessing build/buy modes.{{cite web |url=http://www.simprograms.com/17209/gamescom-2010-megapost-late-night-fast-lane-medieval-mysims-and-more/#more-17209 |title=GamesCom 2010 MegaPost – Late Night, Fast Lane, Medieval, MySims and more! |publisher=Simprograms |date=2010-08-27 |access-date=2010-09-20 |archive-date=August 20, 2010 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100820081228/http://www.simprograms.com/17209/gamescom-2010-megapost-late-night-fast-lane-medieval-mysims-and-more/#more-17209 |url-status=dead }}
The PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360 versions received mostly positive reviews. On Metacritic, it holds an average score of 77 and 76 out of 100 on the PS3 and Xbox 360 versions, respectively.{{cite web |author=Anthony Gallegos |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/the-sims-3/critic-reviews/?platform=playstation-3 |title=The Sims 3 – PlayStation 3 – Metacritic |website=Metacritic |access-date=August 25, 2021 |archive-date=August 27, 2020 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200827061445/https://www.metacritic.com/game/playstation-3/the-sims-3 |url-status=live }}{{cite web |author=Anthony Gallegos |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/the-sims-3/critic-reviews/?platform=xbox-360 |title=The Sims 3 – Xbox 360 – Metacritic |website=Metacritic |access-date=August 25, 2021 |archive-date=February 10, 2022 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220210060913/https://www.metacritic.com/game/xbox-360/the-sims-3 |url-status=live }} Game Informer gave the 360 and PS3 versions a 9/10, praising the new Karma system and The Exchange. GameSpot gave the game a 7/10, noting that "the game lacks fluidity, but is fun in its own right."{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/strategy/thesims3/review.html|title=The Sims 3 Review for Playstation 3|website=GameSpot|date=2010|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101105161959/http://www.gamespot.com/ps3/strategy/thesims3/review.html |archive-date=November 5, 2010 |access-date=2024-03-03}} In a positive review, IGN praised the game for its controls on consoles but said they were disappointed by the fact that there is only one town in the game, as well as bugs, including a glitch where the game will not save once a certain week has been reached. The Wii version received mixed reviews and was criticized by reviewers and players for poor performance and glitches due to the weaker Wii hardware.{{cite web |author=Anthony Gallegos |url=https://www.metacritic.com/game/the-sims-3/critic-reviews/?platform=wii |title=The Sims 3 – Wii – Metacritic |website=Metacritic |access-date=August 25, 2021 |archive-date=August 25, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210825072049/https://www.metacritic.com/game/wii/the-sims-3 |url-status=live }}
Expansions, add-ons, and editions
The Sims 3 was supported to several expansions, add-ons, and edition, including eleven expansion packs and nine stuff packs. Stuff packs only include new items, e.g. furniture, clothing, and hairstyles. They do not add any new functionality to the game. Stuff packs are compatible with both Windows and Mac OS X as with the main game and expansion packs.{{Cite web |date=2012 |title=The Sims 3 Expansions & Stuff Packs |url=https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/expansionpacks.php |access-date=2024-03-03 |website=Carl's The Sims 3 Guide |archive-date=January 2, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240102035824/https://www.carls-sims-3-guide.com/expansionpacks.php |url-status=live }}
= Expansion packs =
{{Main|Expansion packs for The Sims 3{{!}}Expansion packs for The Sims 3}}
| class="wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
! style="width: 15%;height:50px;" | Name ! style="width: 15%;" | Release date ! Includes ! Life State ! New Careers |
| World Adventures
| {{vgrelease|NA|November 17, 2009|EU|November 19, 2009|AU|November 20, 2009}} | Additions include new traits, items, and clothing. | Mummy | Nectar making (Self-employed, only if Ambitions installed) |
| Ambitions
| {{vgrelease|NA|June 1, 2010|EU|June 3, 2010}} | Additions include new careers, skills, traits, and items. |SimBot (Robot) |Architectural Designer, Education, Firefighter, Ghost Hunter, Medical, Investigator, Stylist, Self-Employment for various base game and EP skills |
| Late Night
| {{vgrelease|NA|October 26, 2010|EU|October 28, 2010}} | Additions include new careers, skills, traits, clothes and accessories, furniture, and cars. |Vampire (can be created in CAS if Supernatural is installed) |Film, Band Member |
| Generations
| {{vgrelease|NA|May 31, 2011|EU|June 2, 2011}} | Additions include new playground equipment, mid-life crisis, new interactions, new traits, and new profession. | Imaginary Friend | Daycare |
| Pets
| {{vgrelease|NA|October 18, 2011|EU|October 20, 2011}} |Two editions: Regular and "Limited Edition" |Cat, Dog, Horse, Unicorn |Equestrian |
| Showtime
| {{vgrelease|NA|March 6, 2012|EU|March 8, 2012}} | Three editions: Regular, "Limited Edition", and "Katy Perry Collector's Edition". |Genie (can be created in CAS if Supernatural is installed) |Singer, Acrobat, Magician |
| Supernatural
| {{vgrelease|NA|September 4, 2012|EU|September 6, 2012}} |Three editions: Regular, "Limited Edition", and "Origin Decor Edition". |Vampire, Witch, Werewolf, Zombie, Fairy |Fortune Teller, Alchemist (self-employed, only if Ambitions installed) |
| Seasons
| {{vgrelease|NA|November 13, 2012|EU|November 15, 2012}} |Three editions: Regular, "Limited Edition". and "Origin Exclusive Trick or Treat Costume Pack Edition". |Alien |Test Subject (Aliens Only) |
| University Life
| {{vgrelease|NA|March 5, 2013|EU|March 7, 2013}} |Three editions: Regular, "Limited Edition", and "Origin Exclusive Pre-Order Edition". |PlantSim |Art Appraiser, Sports Agent, Video Game Developer |
| Island Paradise{{cite web |author=SimsVIP |url=http://simsvip.com/2013/01/08/ea-reveals-the-sims-3-line-up-for-2013/ |title=EA Reveals The Sims 3 Line Up for 2013 |publisher=simsvip.com |date=January 8, 2013 |access-date=January 8, 2013 |archive-date=April 22, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160422165016/http://simsvip.com/2013/01/08/ea-reveals-the-sims-3-line-up-for-2013/ |url-status=live }}
| {{vgrelease|NA|June 25, 2013|EU|June 27, 2013}} |Three editions: Regular, "Limited Edition". and "Origin Exclusive Pre-Order Edition". Additions and features include houseboats, resort management, island discovery, new modes of transportation on water, and water related activities (e.g. scuba diving, boating, water skiing, and windsurfing). |Mermaid |Lifeguard, Scuba Diver (self-employed) |
| Into the Future{{cite web |author=SimsVIP |url=http://simsvip.com/2013/06/03/the-sims-3-into-the-future-expansion/ |title=The Sims 3 "Into The Future" Expansion |date=January 8, 2013 |access-date=January 8, 2013 |archive-date=May 27, 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160527010517/http://simsvip.com/2013/06/03/the-sims-3-into-the-future-expansion/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web|title=The Sims 3: Into the Future|url=http://thesims.com/en_US/the-sims-3-into-the-future|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130731152052/http://thesims.com/en_US/the-sims-3-into-the-future|url-status=dead|archive-date=2013-07-31}}
|{{Vgrelease|NA|October 22, 2013|EU|October 24, 2013}} |Two editions: Regular and "Limited Edition". |Plumbot (Robot) |Astronomer, Bot Arena, Bot Building (self-employed) |
= Stuff packs =
| class="wikitable" style="width: 100%;"
! style="width: 15%;height:50px;" | Name ! style="width: 15%;" | Release date ! Includes |
| High-End Loft Stuff{{efn|Alternatively titled "Design and High-Tech Stuff".}}
| {{vgrelease|NA|February 2, 2010|EU|February 4, 2010}} | High-end furnishings, mainly technology such as televisions, video game consoles, and computers, as well as postmodern designs of bookshelves, tables, and chairs. Three items from The Sims and The Sims 2 were reintroduced to celebrate the 10th anniversary of The Sims series. |
| Fast Lane Stuff
| {{vgrelease|NA|September 7, 2010|EU|September 9, 2010}} | Four all‐new styles of fashions, furnishings, and vehicles: Racing, Intrigue, Rockabilly, and Classic Luxury. |
| Outdoor Living Stuff{{efn|Alternatively titled "Garden Style Stuff".}}
| {{vgrelease|NA|February 1, 2011|EU|February 3, 2011}} | Clothing, furnishings, and items centered on patio activities in two new styles: "Garden Terrace" features elegant wrought-iron pieces, while "Sunset on the Veranda" embraces the warmth of the outdoors. |
| Town Life Stuff
| {{vgrelease|NA|July 26, 2011|EU|July 28, 2011}} | New casual outfits, hairstyles, and items. Features newly redesigned venues such as a school, cafe, and grocery store, as well as new community lots including a gym, park, laundromat, and library. |
| Master Suite Stuff
| {{vgrelease|NA|January 24, 2012|EU|January 26, 2012}} | Luxurious bedroom and bathroom décor centered on romance and relaxation. New contemporary furnishings and intimate apparel themed for creating romantic master suites. |
| Katy Perry's Sweet Treats
| {{vgrelease|NA|June 5, 2012|EU|June 7, 2012}} | New candy-themed décor, items, outfits, hairstyles, and community lots. Features a Simlish version of Katy Perry's song "Last Friday Night (T.G.I.F.)". |
| Diesel Stuff
| {{vgrelease|NA|July 10, 2012|EU|July 12, 2012}} | New clothing and décor from Diesel. |
| 70s, 80s, & 90s Stuff{{efn|Alternatively titled "Decades Stuff".}}
| {{vgrelease|NA|January 22, 2013|EU|January 24, 2013}} | Outfits, hairstyles, and items modeled on those of the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. |
| Movie Stuff
| {{vgrelease|NA|September 10, 2013|EU|September 12, 2013}} | Clothing and décor inspired by iconic movie themes and settings. |
= Editions =
Reception
= Reviews =
{{Video game reviews
| GI = 9/10
| rev2 = Total PC Gaming
| rev2Score = 8/10
}}
Response from critics and gamers alike were generally favorable, with Metacritic calculating a score of 86/100 based on 75 reviews. PC Gamer awarded The Sims 3 a 92% and an Editor's Choice badge, calling it "The best Sims game yet".{{cite magazine|last=Stapleton|first=Dan|date=July 2009|title=The Sims 3|magazine=PC Gamer|issue=188|pages=69–73}} IGN awarded the PC version of The Sims 3 an 8.9/10, stating: "This is simply a better playing Sims experience, and once you experience the freedom to hit the town without hitting a load screen you'll be hard-pressed to go back to any of the earlier games. Blowing up the size of the game was certainly a risk, but it was a sensible and overdue one, and kudos to EA for recognizing that the decade-old formula needed some growth. And while there's still plenty of room for more innovation, we'll settle for The Sims 3 for now. It delivers a solid foundation for what should be many more years of Sims sales dominance."{{cite web|last=Ocampo |first=Jason |url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/988/988108p1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090611165142/http://pc.ign.com/articles/988/988108p1.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=June 11, 2009 |title=IGN: The Sims 3 Review |website=IGN |access-date=June 30, 2009}}
The Sims 3 received mostly positive reviews. GameSpot awarded The Sims 3 a score of 9.0/10, the review praised the game: "The latest Sims game is also the greatest, striking a terrific balance between the fresh and the familiar."{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-3-review/1900-6210540/ |title=The Sims 3 Review |publisher=GameSpot |date=June 2, 2009 |access-date=August 29, 2016 |archive-date=November 19, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131119021143/http://www.gamespot.com/reviews/the-sims-3-review/1900-6210540/ |url-status=live }} The game was ranked No. 91 in IGN{{'}}s "Top 100 Modern Games".[http://www.ign.com/top/modern-games/91 The Sims 3 – No. 91 Top 100 Modern Games] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160823034929/http://www.ign.com/top/modern-games/91 |date=August 23, 2016 }}, IGN. Retrieved June 29, 2011 In a special edition of Edge magazine listing their 100 top videogames of all-time, The Sims 3 was No. 89 on the list.The 100 Greatest video games, Edge special edition, Future Publishing, page 30
Reviewing the Nintendo 3DS version, IGN gave it a 7.5 out of 10, saying "while some of the additions are welcome like the new graphics and interface, the removal of certain features like multiple saves, personality traits and calling for services is odd. ... Still, if you've never played a Sims game before, prepare to be addicted. Even though this version has some problems, the positives outweigh the negatives."{{Cite web |author=I. G. N. Staff |date=2011-04-12 |title=The Sims 3 3DS Review |url=https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/04/12/the-sims-3-3ds-review |access-date=2022-08-18 |website=IGN |language=en |archive-date=April 18, 2021 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210418213519/https://www.ign.com/articles/2011/04/12/the-sims-3-3ds-review |url-status=live }} During the 13th Annual Interactive Achievement Awards, the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences nominated The Sims 3 for "Strategy/Simulation Game of the Year".{{cite web |url=https://www.interactive.org/awards/award_category_details.asp?idAward=2010&idGameAwardType=129 |title=2010 Awards Category Details Strategy/Simulation Game of the Year |publisher=Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences |website=interactive.org |access-date=20 November 2023 |archive-date=October 8, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241008231533/https://www.interactive.org/awards/award_category_details.asp?idAward=2010&idGameAwardType=129 |url-status=live }}
= Sales =
EA reported that in its first week, The Sims 3 sold 1.4 million copies.{{cite news|title='Sims 3' sells 1.4 million in first week|url=https://www.nbcnews.com/id/wbna31194133|access-date=September 24, 2013|newspaper=NBC News|date=June 9, 2009|agency=Associated Press|archive-date=September 27, 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130927143948/http://www.nbcnews.com/id/31194133/ns/technology_and_science-games/t/sims-sells-million-copies-first-week/|url-status=live}} According to EA, this was the most successful PC game launch the company had had to date.{{Cite news | title = The Sims 3 Sells 1.4 Million Units in First Week | author = Chris Remo | url = http://gamasutra.com/view/news/23980 | work = Gamasutra | date = June 9, 2009 | access-date = July 30, 2012 | archive-date = October 1, 2013 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20131001182432/http://gamasutra.com/view/news/23980 | url-status = dead }} According to retail data trackers Gfk Australia, The Sims 3 has been the top selling game in Australia from release until June 30, 2009.{{cite web |url=http://au.gamespot.com/news/aussie-game-charts-june-15-21-6212813 |title=Aussie game charts: June 15–21 |access-date=September 24, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131001182436/http://au.gamespot.com/news/aussie-game-charts-june-15-21-6212813 |archive-date=October 1, 2013 |url-status=dead |df=mdy-all }} The Sims 3 ended 2009 as the year's best selling PC game worldwide,{{Cite web |date=January 21, 2010 |title=EA: The Sims 3 Top-Selling PC Game Worldwide In 2009 |url=https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/ea-i-the-sims-3-i-top-selling-pc-game-worldwide-in-2009 |access-date=2024-08-18 |website=www.gamedeveloper.com |language=en |archive-date=August 18, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240818221744/https://www.gamedeveloper.com/game-platforms/ea-i-the-sims-3-i-top-selling-pc-game-worldwide-in-2009 |url-status=live }} and since its release has become one of the best-selling PC games of all time, having sold over ten million copies worldwide.{{cite web|url=http://pc.ign.com/articles/116/1160047p1.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110411204523/http://pc.ign.com/articles/116/1160047p1.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=April 11, 2011 |title=The Sims Live Life to the Fullest in EA's The Sims 3 Generations Expansion Pack – PC News at IGN |publisher=Pc.ign.com |access-date=September 18, 2011}}
Notes
{{notelist}}
References
{{reflist}}
External links
- [http://www.thesims3.com/ Official website]
- {{moby game|id=/sims-3}}
- {{Metacritic game}}
- {{IMDb title}}
{{Sim series|all=yes}}
{{authority control}}
{{DEFAULTSORT:Sims 3, The}}
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Category:Video games developed in the United States
Category:Video games scored by Steve Jablonsky