I got this as a Christmas gift nearly 20 years ago and I really didn't think much of it at the time... And I'm here to say (after buying this again recently) it's probably the best of the series on the PS2 era franchise.

Though it's more story driven and limits you in certain ways in relation to building a home from the ground up, it's an over all satisfying experience in the end.

I really enjoyed the various themed levels based on different social circles and the ability to customize each location as you see fit. That and the new social options available really added new life to the series in comparison to its predecessors.

Looking back to the fashion statements of the early 2000's, it is kind of laughable but ultimately left me nostalgic for it. And the sims style Black Eyed Peas music and characters adds some much needed flare to the gameplay, who would've thought that the combination would work so well? Not me! I can't believe it took me so long to love this!

If you're a Sims fan, this is definitely worth a playthrough, hands down!