"A decent portable version of The Sim's."

Opening Statements: ''The Sim's Bustin Out'', stands out as the first portable version of The Sims to reach the gaming world. And although the smaller portable version is much different from the original sim's, or console versions, It still has enough of a variety to keep fan's, and those who simply appreciate the genre at least somewhat happy. With that In mind let's get started.

Gameplay: 5/10

The real meat of the game is based on completing set's of goal's, or mission's, which when completed will allow you to progress in the game by opening up new area's, mini games, and a bigger, better place to live.
While still maintaining your everyday need's, such as eating ,sleeping, or using the restroom. However I found the game play to be somewhat disappointing, mainly Because many of the game's main goal's and\or Mission's are simply not fun, or enjoyable to complete. It should also be noted that some may find it annoying that mini games are only open at certain times during the day, But their are still a few good shop's, and dining area's where you can spend your hard earned similian's to fill in the time gaps.

Story\Plot: 4\10

The Sim's Bustin' Out does not have much of a story, and for what little bit of story there is, it's really nothing special. You start off by spending the summer in Sim Valley on your uncles farm, there's not much more to it than that. Once again I'm left in disappointment.

Graphic's: 8\10

Now I can point out one of the more positive aspects of the game. The Game's environment, and character's are bright and lively, which greatly add's to the over all experience, and the animations were top notch. That mean's no complaint's here, as the game's graphics provide for some real eye candy.

Music\Sound: 5\10

Not a lot to be said here,I would say that the Music, and Sound is about average, and I don't feel there was enough variety in the music, which often seemed to be repetitious. So overall I have to say that the game's audio leaves something to be desired.

Replay Value: 3\10

Replay Value?, Huh?, Where? Yeah that's the feeling you get when it comes to reviewing the replay value of this game. It has little if any because the game follow's somewhat of a guideline, and the game's mission's will always be the same thing they always were, (which in my opinion is boring) which mean's things will always end up being pretty much the same.

Conclusion: 6\10

This is not a bad game, but it does have quite a few drawbacks you should take note of, however real fan's of The Sim's may still enjoy it, and may want to give it a whirl. But if your new to the Sim's I would look elsewhere, because it does not have that magic touch the original sim's had which drew in so many fan's. The game's mediocre story, gameplay, and music does no justice to the sim's well know games, Which makes this portable version difficult to recommend.

Reviewer's Score: 6/10, Originally Posted: 02/20/04