Reviews

With the latest version of The Sims series storming off the shelves, bolstered by the online store, you might think the avalanche of inevitable expansions would be cut off. No such luck as World Adventures comes calling to milk EA's traditional cash cow, but at least its scope seems a little more impressive than the endless pets and jobs.

"Where do you want to go today?" was a Microsoft slogan that Electronic Arts could well have borrowed for its grand-touring expansion for the ever-popular Sims series. Instead of sitting at home worrying about the plumbing or what slimeball will try to date your offspring, just get to head off around the world.

You don't need to bring your mummy on this holiday

There have been other holiday Sim expansions for previous versions of the game, but this is something new. Taking in a little bit of tomb raiding in Egypt, a little gastronomy in Paris and a touch (or a flying fist) of the exotic east in China, the expansion offers three locations but packs in a world of wonders and some great little touches to bring home after your holiday and to encourage further adventuring..

When you go off on an adventure, which costs a bundle of cash - so be prepared to work for your vacations - time is paused back at home. Each location has some glossed-over tourism and some more detailed exploration for your delight. Some of your time will be spent doing the usual Sim things, food water and ablutions will all need to be maintained.

In China, the locals are, mostly, friendly

When not managing the minutiae of Sims life, you can stroll or scoot the streets of a compressed French city, bringing all the highlights (if you like baguettes) of the real France without having to share the public transport with the locals. Each city is brilliantly brought to life with great architecture and plenty to explore.