Review:The Sims 2 FreeTime by Sam
From Simpedia
.png){kind=small}
When I first heard about the proposed topic for the new EP, I was a little disappointed. Couldn't EA have chosen something a little better than hobbies to round off the best selling computer game of all time? The cover of the box wasn't exactly inpiring either, and nor was the trailer. But when I finally got to fire up the game this afternoon, I was blown away. I've realised (and obviously, so had EA) that it's not just about the hobbies. This expansion pack doesn't just add hobbies, it adds finishing touches to the entire game - and the free time, hobbies and interests are just a small part of that.
The music for the new EP is brilliant. Admittedly the loading sequence is a little dull, but then it's hard for it not to be. Following the tradition of previous EPs, it's simply a variation on one of the original themes, with some pleasant deviations in places. But the new neightborhood, build and buy mode music is amazing. The whole thing just sounds like an awe-inspiring finale to an amazing game. And now I'm going to sound like a fool if EA turn round and release another EP.
The hobbies are great - I started off by loading up one of the prebuilt houses in the new neighborhood, just to get used to the new features and gameplay. There are loads of hobby related objects, and a lot of hobby-related interactions with existing objects as well - for instance, when I sent a Sim off to practice some ballet, I was informed that she had "developed an interest in Music and Dance" and could now research the subject on the computer.
There are some great new basic items as well - the first thing I noticed was the new set of kitchen appliances, with a new trash compactor and dishwasher included. When I have a bit more time I'll sit down and explore the catalogs thoroughly.
For me, this expansion pack is the icing on the cake. It improves the game in all the right places, and rounds off all the corners. And it adds enough new features and activities to keep me interested until The Sims 3.
