The Sims Hot Date (EA, PC M15)

By PETER ELEY

(Herald rating: * * * * )

The Sims brought soap opera to the PC. It let you set up individuals in everyday situations and watch them develop at home and in their work life.

But what about their, er, social life? Hot Date tackles that pressing issue and is probably the best of the three expansion packs so far.

There were limited opportunities for social intercourse before, but Hot Date expands those.

You make a romantic approach to a neighbour, then whisk them off downtown to a nightclub or restaurant.
Once there, you need to wine and dine them, or at least stop them from getting bored otherwise youÕll find yourself going home alone.

Get it right, and the relationship can progress all the way to marriage.

The original game and add-ons let you customise and build your home.

Hot Date expands on that by letting you build restaurants and bars in the downtown area.
That's great fun, and just the ticket if you find yourself unwilling to commit.

peter_eley@nzherald.co.nz