While it may seem clunky at times, The Sims 3 is still an enjoyable console version of one of the best games last year.
The Sims has now been around for roughly ten years. Since the series debut all those years ago, it has seen many different games and expansions on a variety of platforms. The has yet to be a game on the current-gen consoles until now. Boasting a couple of small new features, the game aims to continue the success of the PC version released over a year ago. Overall, the transition is successful, though it seems somewhat repetitive and clunky compared to a fascinating experience found on the PC version.
Gameplay:
Gameplay needs no introduction here, as anyone who has heard of the series knows you spend your time, well, living life. You will create your Sim character and guide he/she through life, which contains so many possibilities, it sometimes seems endless. Some games in the past have featured some slight storylines to follow, though this game is different. You create your Sim, and literally start from absolute scratch. You need to find a job, get to know people, and achieve various goals and the sort. Achieving these goals will net you points towards special unlockables that pertain to your lifetime happiness. These can range from kissing a significant other, getting a promotion, learning a skill, and much more. It gives the game tons of replay value, especially if you are a lifelong fan of the series. (No pun intended)
The main new feature that fans of the PC version will notice is the addition of the Karma system. Basically, if you are good, you will get good karma and vice-versa if you are bad. In my honest opinion, it doesn't affect enough of the game to warrant it being put in. While it is a nice feature, I don't see a major need for it. If you played the PC version, you will hardly even notice it since you only get the karma boost every night at midnight.
Sound:
Still, one thing I don't like that much is the strange language that the Sims speaks. They always sound like they are speaking every language ever created, bunched it all up, and came up with that. That is just a personal dislike, and while it has never been bad, it has always just seemed so strange. The music is typical Sims music, and I really don't know what to say about it.
Story:
(N/A since you essentially create the story)
Graphics:
The Sims looks have been vastly improved, and I am impressed with what I see. Sims are much more detailed, and the buildings also carry much more detail, even if it may seem minor for what the game portrays. This is not Unreal Engine, or CryEngine, or any other great game engine. They don't need that in a game like The Sims, but the fact that they have seen improvement is a plus nonetheless.
Shortcomings and Glitches/Bugs:
This game can be frustrating at times because it seems clunky when in reality, it shouldn't be. Compared to the mouse and keyboard of the PC, it seems that something went slightly wrong in the control scheme. The prior games were relatively smooth on consoles, whereas this one seems like it could have been streamlined to be tight and responsive. I think as time goes on, maybe with an expansion or any other game that may or may not appear on consoles, the series does have hope for the future.
Conclusion:
The Sims 3 is a fun and engaging game with all the features that make the series what it is. There is nearly an unlimited amount of things for you to do in the game. Don't forget about the online store, The Exchange, where users can submit new content for you to download. That alone adds tons of replay value. Fans of the series that may not have played the PC version may be turned off by the game's clunky control scheme and somewhat inconsistent framerate. The Sims 3 still offers that fun factor that the series is known for, and that is what is most important here. It may not be the flashiest, or the prettiest version, but the game still delivers in enough ways to keep you entertained.
High/Low Points:
+ Karma System Adds A New Twist
+ Nearly Infinite Amount of Things To Do
- Some Slight Technical Problems
- Controls Feel Clunky
Gameplay Score: 8.0/10
Sound Score: 7.0/10
Story Score: N/A
Graphics Score: 7.0/10
Presentation Score: 7.5/10
Overall Score: 7.5/10
Replay Value: High