Although gameplay is not linear, storylines and scripted events exist in the game's pre-built neighborhoods. Genetics are also a new game mechanic, as previously children in The Sims did not always look like their parents. The Sims 2 was the first game in the series to incorporate a 3D graphics engine, which allowed the player to get 360º views of the game as opposed to the fixed 2D isometric view of The Sims. Sims have life goals, wants, and fears, the fulfillment of which can produce good or bad outcomes.
Players manage their Sims from birth to death, forming relationships in a manner similar to real life. Like its predecessor, The Sims 2 allows the player to create and dress characters called 'Sims', design neighborhoods, and build and furnish houses. A sequel, The Sims 3, was released in June 2009. In addition, versions of The Sims 2 were released on various consoles and mobile platforms, including the Nokia Ovi Store. Eight expansion packs and nine 'stuff packs' were subsequently released between 20. The game was released for Microsoft Windows on September 14, 2004, and a port for MacOS was released on June 17, 2005. It is the second major title in The Sims series, and is the sequel to The Sims. The Sims 2 is a 2004 strategic life simulation video game developed by Maxis and published by Electronic Arts.
