Duplicating "The Sims" series would be impossible. There have been attempts, but most can't even begin to compare. When you need a break from "The Sims," try a different life sims that have many of the same qualities, like the depth and addictive play.
Just because you like "The Sims 2" doesn't mean you'll love all the games on this list. Download the demos, read reviews, and ask your friends if they've played any of them.
"The Movies"
Box Cover © Activision.
Hire actors, build sets, release movies, and help the actors become stars. "The Movies" is detailed orientated throughout the movie's creation. Not only will you run your own movie studio, you will be making your movies right in the game. The movie making part lets you create movies using sets within your studio, scripted scenes, and customize audio. If you aren't into the idea of making movies, managing the actors and buying new studios will keep you occupied. Stars will need your attention to guide them to earn the right skills and to be kept happy as they gain star status.
"MySims"
Box Cover © Electronic Arts.
"MySims" is focused more about the creation of furniture than it is the town's residents. This is the game for those wannabe "The Sims 2" players. This game makes building your own furniture easy and fast. Downside is you can't import your creations into "The Sims 2."
"Virtual Villagers"
Screenshot © Last Day of Work.
Villagers stranded on an island need your help to solve the puzzles of the island. "Virtual Villagers" has 16 puzzles that will be solved by exploring the island, research, and construction. The villagers do not require as much individual attention as Sims, instead point them in the right direction and they will mostly keep up their work. Because "Virtual Villagers" runs in real-time, it's an excellent option when you have a few minutes to waste or for taking a break from real work.
"Virtual Villagers 2"
Screenshot © Last Day of Work.
"Virtual Villagers 2 The Lost Children" starts where the original left off. Villagers are exploring a cage and end up on the other side of the island where they find a group of children and no parents. "Virtual Villagers 2" comes with a new set of puzzles to solve, food sources, and clothes for the Villagers.
"Black and White 2"
Box Cover © Lionhead Studios.
Be God to a world that was pleading for a God to help them. You'll raise a creature, wage wars, create settlements, and answer the prayers of your people. It's your choice whether you are a good God or an evil one. You have some control over what the villagers do. "Black and White 2" has you approach the village more as a whole than dealing with individuals.
