Sims to University (PC)

(Herald rating * * *)

Getting too involved in the gaming sensation known as The Sims can be a dangerous thing. That's because the game has spun off numerous expansion packs which you have to buy to broaden the horizons of your Sim world.

It's a great trick to keep selling games, but it begs the question about how many variations on the game you can have. What's next? Sim Prison, where you plot escapes, become someone's sex slave and fight for more mashed potato?

I never became too involved in The Sims or The Sims 2. Sim City 3000 and Sim Tower, remain my favourite games from the Sim camp.

The Sims 2 University delves into the Sim world of early adulthood. It's based on the American student experience of dorm life, frat-parties, cheerleaders and garage rock bands. So you might not be able to relate to it, but it does provide a change of scenery.

There are household items that will appeal to hip students - the pool table, arcade games and, get this, home plastic surgery kit.

An influence system allows you to twist other Sims around your little finger. And new home decoration options let you perfect that grungy student look. It's more of the same but slightly different.

If you've many hours to spare and simoleons to spend, worth a look.

$50 (Rated 15+)