Pets
When I saw preview screenshots of the pets, I immediately didn't like the graphics. As I hoped the screenshots just didn't do the pets justice, and they really do look nice in the game. The pets fit in quite nicely with the Sims.
The pets are adorable. They watch TV, play tag with each other, fetch the newspaper, and for the most part take care of their own needs. The art for the pet objects are very well done. A few pet beds are included in the new objects. Of course, like real life pets, buy them a bed and they still sleep on the floor.
The whole family will have to go to the Adoption Center to buy a pet. You'll have a chance to play with a cat or dog. Once you've made your decision to buy a pet, you'll have the option of male or female, name, and your choice of colors. You do not have to buy the pet shown at the store. Instead of you have the option of buying a pet with any pet skin you may have.
To get outside pets open the door all by themselves. This I find hilarious. Why? Because it is unrealistic. Yes, this is just a game, but a cat opening a door. I would have preferred replacing the back door with one that had a pet door.
While outside pets can play together, sleep in a doghouse, eat, socialize with strays, or simply run around. Yes, I did say strays. My houses seem to attract an enormous amount of visitors. The strays will beg for food and pee on the sidewalk. Strays aren't the only ones making a mess in your yard. Raccoons will come by, and play in your trash.
Pets, like Sims have to work to improve themselves. Dogs can be trained to jump, and cats to dance. Dogs, unlike cats, will have to be housebroken. Don't worry, it only takes ten times of scolding them for peeing on the floor before they figure out they need to go outside.
Cats and dogs may get most of the attention, but birds, fish, iguanas, and turtles can be adopted too. Cats actually really like having birds around. They enjoy climbing up on the cage and harassing them, and sometimes eating them. You have four options with parrots and cockatoos - fill food, dance, talk, and feed cracker. Sims are responsible for cleaning the cage and feeding them as well.
