"One of if not the best N-Gage game"

This game is probably the best N-Gage game I've played at this time (out of the collection of games I have). To be honest EA Games do not make very original or good titles, or they're loaded with glitches. But I have to say EA really did a good job at making this title on the N-Gage.

Graphics: 9

The frame rate is very smooth with absolutely no slowdown as far as I can tell. Yes the game is using sprites and bitmaps instead of polygons and textures, but it gives nice eye candy all the same. Most of the animations are very smooth with no sudden jumps in them (typically the running and walking animations of all characters in the game). The only reason why it didn't get a 10 was because some of the animation's aren't smooth (like when you lift weights in the gym).

Sound: 7

The sound is very clear as well as the voices. However some of the sounds don't sound anything like the action. An example of this is when you're mopping the floor it makes a loud 'tshhhh' noise constantly. Also things like the scooter and the running machine sound terrible and get annoying really quick (the running machine with a constant beep, and the scooter with a strange squealing noise that doesn't sound ANYTHING like a motor).

Music: 10

By music I'm also including background effects, as disabling the music also disables these. All the sounds are very clear, and none of them are either annoying nor repetitive. When it turns night time the music changes to crickets in a field and wolves howling (just like in the PC version of The Sims). A lot of the songs are also remixes of the songs found in the PC version of The Sims, and they haven't spoilt the tracks either.

Game Play: 9

This game is nothing like the PC/Console versions of The Sims, so if you're expecting to build a house and control an entire family, then I'm afraid you're in for a disappointment (which is why I didn't put 10, as they could of probably included it as a bonus feature or something). However this is just like a basic RPG. You still buy items for your house, you still have to keep your sim from getting hungry or sleepy, or from wetting him/herself, you still get to create your character and their personality. The main difference in this version of The Sims though is that you actually control your character - you control their exact movements to roam around the city/house/building. The mini games that you unlock on your Sims mobile/cell phone are also pretty decent, as well as the objects not available on the GBA version (like the sauna) and the blue-tooth auction system that unlocks something. Also the N-Gage Arena features that lets you compete with other players on the mini games is quite fun and can get VERY difficult towards the end of the month!

Overall: 9

I'm surprised EA did a really good job with this game, as most of their games recently have been dull or sequels. I hope EA keep up the good work and continue to support the N-Gage with great titles such as this. You will find this game for £10 at any game store (if not then they're ripping you off!) so it's worth the price. A MUST HAVE for all N-Gage owners!

Reviewer's Score: 9/10, Originally Posted: 01/06/05